Addis Ababa: The outgoing Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Moussa Faki Mahamat, emphasized the critical need for African unity in light of ongoing global challenges. He made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa today. Addressing the summit, Faki reflected on achievements of his tenure, acknowledging the significant challenges facing Africa in recent years.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the outgoing chairperson emphasized that Africa must overcome external pressures and regional conflicts; stressing that only through collective action can the continent secure a prosperous future. He urged African leaders to stay focused on the shared vision of peace, development, and solidarity, recognizing that the decisions made today will shape Africa’s future and underscored the importance of Pan-Africanism, urging African leaders to remain united despite the tumultuous global context.
Faki also described the challenges fa
cing the continent as: ‘We are at a crossroads,’ he said, adding ‘The choices we make today will determine the future of our continent. We must stay committed to our shared vision for peace, development, and solidarity.’ The past eight years have been marked by unprecedented challenges; he stated noting that the international landscape has been characterized by violent instability, economic turmoil, and a global health crisis, all of which have severely impacted Africa.
While highlighting key accomplishments, such as strengthening diplomatic ties and visiting all 55 member states, he pointed to the turbulent global backdrop marked by geopolitical instability, the COVID-19 pandemic, and conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war, which have further undermined Africa’s food and health security. Faki has also emphasized united Africa remains central to the AU’s priorities as the continent navigates the complexities of the 21st century.
The 38th Ordinary Session serves as a pivotal moment for African leaders to refl
ect on the continent’s past, address pressing issues, and reaffirm their commitment to unity.