People from all walks of life have been trooping to the Accra International Conference Center (AICC) to sign the book of condolence opened here on Wednesday in honor of late former United Nations (UN) Secretary General Kofi Annan.

The former head of the global body passed away on Saturday at a hospital in Bern, Switzerland, after a short illness.

Among the dignitaries who paid tribute to the late international statesman was Anne-Claire Dufay, Country Representative of the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF).

"We are all saddened by the departing of Hon. Kofi Annan, former Secretary General. We have been truly inspired by Kofi Annan. I personally met him in East Timor in the year 2000 after the conflict," the UNICEF official stated.

She recalled the visit by the late former Secretary General where he really inspired the UN staff with his words related to peace and human rights.

"So we would like to extend our deepest condolences to his wife and his family and friends. He will continue to inspire all of us at the United Nations and the UNICEF," she added.

The Memory Table created for the condolence book is decorated in flowers with the flag of Ghana set at half mast behind it and photos of the late octogenarian.

Also paying tribute to Kofi Annan was Ghana's Minister for Development Planning George Gyan-Barfuor and clergyman Lawrence Tetteh.

"Saturday we heard about the demise of Kofi Annan. It's a big blow not only to Ghana but also to the international community because someone who has ascended to the throne of Secretary-General of the UN is not a small achievement," Ghanaian journalist, Henry Martinson told Xinhua.

"What we should be doing is to remember some of his legacies," Martinson urged.

The book of condolence will remain open till next Wednesday to allow the general public to pay tributes to Kofi Annan.

President Nana Akufo-Addo signed the book of condolence opened in Kofi Annan's family house on Sunday.

Xinhua