The history of the holiday began on May 25, 1963, when 32 African heads of State met in Ethiopia and signed the founding charter for the creation of the Organization of African Unity. This day is also called the Day of African Freedom, it symbolizes the desire of African countries for unity in the interests of independent development, peace and prosperity on the continent.

Foreign students of USU from Africa annually celebrate the holiday by organizing sports and cultural events, telling students from other countries about culture of their countries.