Addis Ababa — Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has underscored the urgency of accelerating institutional reforms while advancing peace and sustainable development across the continent, as the 48th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council opened ahead of the 39th AU Assembly.
Addressing the opening session, the Chairperson emphasized that institutional reform remains a critical priority for the African Union, noting that tangible progress is being made under the 2024–2028 Strategic Plan. He highlighted advancements in strengthening the peace and security architecture, enhancing sustainable financing mechanisms, and reinforcing institutional capacity.
Referring to the AU’s theme of the year, water and sanitation, H.E. Mahmoud stressed that water must be safeguarded as a shared continental resource and leveraged as a catalyst for cooperation, particularly in the face of growing climate change challenges.
While welcoming recent positive political developments, including the return of Gabon and Guinea to constitutional order, the Chairperson cautioned that instability and terrorism continue to pose serious threats in parts of the continent, requiring sustained collective action.
He reaffirmed the central role of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and AU institutions in driving Africa’s integration agenda, underscoring the importance of innovative financing solutions and stronger partnerships with the private sector and civil society.
Concluding his remarks, H.E. Mahmoud stated that focused leadership and clearly defined strategic priorities will be decisive in determining the success of the African Union’s objectives.
The AUC Chairperson also expressed appreciation to the Republic of Angola for its leadership of the Executive Council, noting that Angola currently serves as Chair of the African Union.
