First Conference of Independent African Heads of State and Government, 1963   Description Held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in May 1963 by His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie, this African leader's summit convened delegates from across the continent for the purpose of overcoming regional differences in order to form the Organization of African Unity. Charged with defining Africa's future while banning together in the fight for freedom, each delegation will arrive with a political agenda that reflects their distinct situation. While some overcame colonial oppression nearly half a decade ago, others still struggle in their region's quest for independence. Amidst the fervor of revolution, European colonial powers compete in the international arena for African territory. Concurrently, an ideological battle for spheres of influence continues to develop as the U.S.S.R and the United States clash for power. As representatives of African bodies, we face the challenge of developing a "continental consensus" while addressing political concerns at the international level. Staff Chair: Colin Felsman Crisis Director: Max Taffel