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Statement by Mo Ibrahim on the passing of Kofi Annan

The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation.

Today we lost a great African, a man who spent most of his life working for peace, democracy and development.

He spent most of his working life at the UN retiring as Secretary General in 2006.

On retirement Kofi dedicated his time and energy for Africa working for peace, human rights and climate justice.

Besides his Foundation he chaired the Elders, the Africa Progress Panel and the various missions he undertook searching for peace from Kenya, to Syria, to Myanmar.

On a personal level I have lost a close friend, a counsellor and comrade in arms in the fight for better governance and rule of law in Africa. Kofi was the first chair of our Prize Committee, and his contribution to our Board meetings were always invaluable.

Our condolences to his wife Nane and his children.