Western Sahara remains the only part of Africa which has not gained independence, according to the President of Tanzania.
Western Sahara, a former Spanish colony in north-west Africa, is now disputed by Morocco which claims it and the Polisario Front liberation movement which wants independence.
President Jakaya Kikwete told the UN General Assembly on Thursday that in the 50 years of its membership of the United Nations, Tanzania has contributed to the decolonization of Africa and other parts of the world.
He said his country gave sanctuary and support to almost all liberation movements of Southern Africa.
“It is heart-warming indeed, to see our efforts, sacrifices and contributions having been rewarded so handsomely with the independence of all African countries and apartheid having been dismantled in South Africa. Only Western Sahara remains outstanding. I hope the United Nations will expedite the process so that people of Saharawi can determine their future peacefully.”
UN Multimedia.org, 22/09/2011