The Organization of African Unity (OAU) was established in 1963 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to promote unity and cooperation among African nations. Its primary goals included the eradication of colonialism, the promotion of peace and security, and the advancement of social and economic development across the continent. The OAU aimed to foster solidarity among African states and support liberation movements in countries still under colonial rule. In 2001, the OAU was transformed into the African Union (AU) to better address contemporary challenges facing Africa, such as political instability and economic integration. The AU continues the OAU's mission while focusing on issues like human rights, democracy, and sustainable development, reflecting the evolving needs of African nations in a global context.