Tribute kofi annan a measure of a man by matthew hassan kukah

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"A Measure of a Man: The Story of Kofi Annan" by Matthew Hassan Kukah is a biography that pays tribute to the life and legacy of Kofi Annan, the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations. Here's a summary of the book:

The Book

Published in 2002, "A Measure of a Man" is a comprehensive biography of Kofi Annan, written by Matthew Hassan Kukah, a Nigerian Catholic priest and scholar. The book is a tribute to Annan's life, highlighting his early years, his career at the United Nations, and his achievements as Secretary-General.

Kofi Annan's Life

Born in 1938 in Kumasi, Ghana, Kofi Annan was the son of a respected Ghanaian diplomat. He grew up in a family that valued education and public service. Annan's early years were marked by a strong sense of purpose and a desire to make a difference in the world. He studied economics at Macalester College in the United States and later earned a master's degree in international relations from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Annan joined the United Nations in 1962, starting as a budget officer in the World Food Programme. He rose through the ranks, serving in various capacities, including as Assistant Secretary-General for Program Planning, Budget, and Finance. In 1997, he was appointed Secretary-General of the United Nations, a position he held until 2006.

Achievements and Challenges

During his tenure as Secretary-General, Annan faced numerous challenges, including the Iraq War, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the HIV/AIDS pandemic. He was a strong advocate for human rights, sustainable development, and the empowerment of women and girls. Annan also played a key role in the establishment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), a set of eight goals aimed at reducing poverty and improving global health.

Tribute to Kofi Annan

Kukah's biography is a tribute to Annan's life and legacy, highlighting his many achievements and the challenges he faced. The book provides a detailed account of Annan's early years, his career at the United Nations, and his leadership style. Kukah also explores Annan's personal life, including his relationships and his commitment to his family.

Conclusion

"A Measure of a Man" is a well-researched and engaging biography that provides a comprehensive overview of Kofi Annan's life and legacy. The book is a tribute to Annan's many achievements and a reminder of the importance of his work in promoting peace, human rights, and sustainable development.