The OAU objectives are stated in Article II of the CHARTER as follows 1. to promote the unity and solidarity of the African States; 2. to co-ordinate and intensify their cooperation and efforts to achieve a better life for the peoples of Africa; 3. to defend their sovereignty, their territorial integrity and independence; 4. to eradicate all forms of colonialism from Africa; and 5. to promote international cooperation, having due regard to the Charter of the United Nations and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

We, the Heads of African States and Governments assembled in the City of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; Convinced that it is the inalienable right of all people to control their own destiny; conscious of the fact that freedom, equality, justice and dignity are essential objectives for the achievement of the legitimate aspirations of the African peoples; Conscious of our responsibility to harness the natural and human resources of our continent for the total advancement of our peoples in spheres of human endeavour; Inspired by a common determination to promote understanding among our peoples and co-operation among our States in response to the aspirations of our peoples for brotherhood and solidarity, in a larger unity transcending ethnic and national differences; Convinced that, in order to translate this determination into a dynamic force in the cause of human progress, conditions for peace and security must be established and maintained; Determined to safeguard and consolidate the hard-won independence as well as the sovereignty and territorial integrity, of our States, and to fight against neo-colonialism in all its forms; Dedicated to the general progress of Africa; Persuaded that the Charter of the United Nations and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, to the principles of which we reaffirm our adherence, provide a solid foundation for peaceful and positive co-operation among States; Desirous that all African States should henceforth unite so that the welfare and well-being of their peoples can be assured; Resolved to reinforce the links between our states by establishing and strengthening common institutions; Have agreed to the present Charter.