1987 Africa Prize - Messages

The efforts of trailblazers like President Diouf and Professor Odhiambo, pursuing the noble ideals and goals of The Hunger Project in Africa, are a great source of inspiration for many engaged in the global war against poverty and oppression; they are a fountain of life, hope and strength for those in despair.

H.E. Kenneth Kaunda, President of Zambia; Chairman, Organization of African Unity

Giving recognition to those Africans who are grappling with the almost insurmountable problems of emerging Africa is of great significance and an encouragement to imaginative leadership. I hope this award may become a springboard to stability and peace in a continent racked by hunger and despair. Through this prize, The Hunger Project is lighting a beacon of hope for which all in Africa may be truly grateful.

- Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate

The Hunger Project is principally concerned with leadership. It is precisely this quality that President Abdou Diouf and Professor Thomas R. Odhiambo have provided in ample measure, each one in his very different role. Their vision, recognized further this evening, reflects much of what is great in their continent.

H.E. Javier Pérez de Cuéllar, Secretary-General, United Nations

Your appreciation of the new spirit of responsibility that is now being expressed by African leaders to help Africa to free itself from the present crisis, has been for me a real source of comfort and encouragement.

Hon. Shridath Ramphal Secretary-General, The Commonwealth

Your prize winners embody the qualities of political and intellectual leadership which have been summoned up in many parts of the African continent as a result of its profound crisis in development. Leadership must now be given in the rest of the world to ensure that Africa is given adequate external support in carrying the burden of relieving hunger and of economic reconstruction.

H.E. Ide Oumarou Secretary-General, Organization of African Unity