US R&B singer Akon debuted an anti-slavery song at the United Nations in New York today (March 26th).

The song, entitled 'Blood Into Gold', was recorded in collaboration with the Emmy-award winning musician Peter Buffett for the non-profit organisation, Culture Project.

Akon's appearance at the UN coincided with the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery.

The singer, real name Aliaune Thiam, told the BBC that he would do his part to “spread the word” about slavery.

“A lot of my US friends are not aware of the history,” Thiam, who spent his childhood in Senegal, said. "[Slavery] is a big situation for us - the younger generation.

"It's very important for me because it was the slaves that opened the door for me personally.

“Seeing how far we've come, I'm honoured to be a part of it and I will do my part to spread that word. As people, we should stop using each other for money purposes."

Proceeds from 'Blood Into Gold' will help the Culture Project's bid to end human trafficking around the world.

(by Jason Gregory)