On 7th  April 2026, the Africa Group of Ambassadors and Permanent Delegates to UNESCO hosted a farewell ceremony in honour of H.E. Ali J. Mwadini, former Ambassador to France and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO.

Speaking on behalf of the Group, H.E. Ayeid Yahya, Dean of the Africa Group of Ambassadors to France, underscored that Ambassador Mwadini leaves behind a distinguished legacy defined by professionalism, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to consensus-building. His tenure reflects Tanzania’s exemplary engagement across both bilateral and multilateral platforms.

On behalf of the Africa Group to UNESCO, H.E. Dr. Philemon Mjwara, Permanent Delegate of South Africa to UNESCO, commended Ambassador Mwadini’s high-quality contributions, particularly his co-chairing of the 2025 edition of UNESCO Africa Week and his leadership in facilitating informal consultations within the UNESCO Executive Board among African Member States.

In addition, Mr. Mohamed Elfarnawany, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Priority Africa and External Relations a.i., highlighted the Secretariat’s close and productive collaboration with Ambassador Mwadini. He notably emphasized joint efforts to advance the promotion of the Kiswahili language through UNESCO initiatives.

In response, Ambassador Mwadini expressed his sincere gratitude to the entire Africa Group, Ambassadors and Permanent Delegates from UNESCO Member States and the Secretariat for the friendship, support and cooperation that facilitated his work and pledged his continued engagement in advancing the values of ubuntu.