Background and Education
Alex Quaison-Sackey was born in 1924 in Winneba, Ghana (then the Gold Coast). He came from a politically active family and received his early education at Mfantsipim School and Achimota College.
Quaison-Sackey went on to study at the University of Oxford, graduating with a degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics. He also studied international relations and law in London, becoming one of Ghana’s first Foreign Service officers.
Early Political Activism
Even from a young age, Quaison-Sackey was involved in politics. In 1948, he served as President of the Political Youth Organization in Winneba, fighting for Ghana’s independence.
After finishing his studies in the UK, Quaison-Sackey took up roles such as Labour Officer in Ghana and lecturer in economics and government. He was later appointed Head of Chancery in the Ghana High Commissioner’s Office in London.
Presidency of the UN General Assembly
In 1959, Quaison-Sackey was appointed as Ghana’s ambassador and permanent representative to the United Nations. He served as President of the UN General Assembly’s 19th session in 1964-1965, the first Black African in that role.
As President, Quaison-Sackey advocated strongly for human rights, especially for people in developing countries. He supported the establishment of UNCTAD to promote economic cooperation amongst developing countries.
Despite tensions from the Cold War and racial discrimination, Quaison-Sackey remained committed to strengthening the UN’s ability to promote peace and security globally.
Legacy as a Diplomat
In addition to his groundbreaking role with the UN, Quaison-Sackey served as Ghana’s ambassador to several countries over his career, including ambassador to Cuba and Mexico.
He played a key part in African unity efforts, supporting the establishment of the Organization of African Unity, now the African Union. Quaison-Sackey left a lasting legacy as a diplomat, role model and advocate for human rights across Africa and the developing world.
Though lesser known today, Alex Quaison-Sackey was a true pioneer and statesman of his time. As the first Black African President of the UN General Assembly, he broke crucial barriers and paved the way for future African leaders on the global stage.
