African Union

Official account of the African Union Commission. For an integrated, Prosperous and Peaceful Africa

[H.E Amb. Selma Malika Haddadi @DCP_Haddadi]

In Accra, I participated alongside the Chairperson of the @_AfricanUnion Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf @ymahmoudali, in the 27th Extraordinary Session of the AU Executive Council on Financing the Union.

The session was a key opportunity to engage with AU Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Finance on strengthening the Union's financial sustainability, institutional independence and operational effectiveness.

We stressed the importance of greater African ownership and self-reliance, enhanced Member State contributions, sustainable financing mechanisms and effective use of the AU Peace Fund — alongside institutional reform, rationalization of duplication, financial discipline and results-driven governance in advancing #Agenda2063.

I warmly congratulate Ghana for voluntarily joining the Tier 1 assessment, and Zimbabwe for increasing its contribution from USD 2.6 million to USD 4 million and joining Tier 2, with a gradual increase to USD 7 million.

These sovereign acts of solidarity reaffirm both Member States' commitment to the African Union's financial self-reliance. They are leading by example — a powerful reminder that African ownership is not just an aspiration, but a lived commitment.

#AfricanUnion #FinancingTheUnion #Agenda2063 #Ghana #Accra

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

27th Extraordinary Session of the AU Executive Council Opens in Accra, Underscoring the Imperative of Financial Autonomy and Institutional Reform.

The 27th Extraordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU), dedicated to Financing the Union, officially opened in Accra, Republic of Ghana, with a renewed call for greater African ownership, sustainable financing and collective commitment to strengthening the Union's institutional and financial foundations. The Session brings together Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Finance from AU Member States, senior leadership of the African Union Commission (AUC), representatives of AU Organs, Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and international partners to deliberate on strategic measures towards securing the Union's financial sustainability and institutional effectiveness.

The Session is convened at a critical juncture in the implementation of the African Union's institutional and financial reforms, as the continent seeks to translate its longstanding commitment to financial self-reliance into tangible and sustainable outcomes. Despite progress in mobilising domestic resources, the Union continues to depend considerably on external financing for the implementation of its programmes and peace and security activities. Against this backdrop, the Executive Council is considering an integrated reform pathway aimed at strengthening financial autonomy, rationalising institutional structures, enhancing programme effectiveness and establishing a unified programme-based budget architecture underpinned by a Medium-Term Expenditure Framework.

Addressing the Executive Council, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, underscored that financing the Union constitutes a fundamental prerequisite for advancing Africa's collective aspirations under Agenda 2063, accelerating economic integration, strengthening continental peace and security, and enhancing Africa's voice and influence in global affairs. “Financing the African Union is not an end in itself; it is an investment in Africa's collective determination to realise Agenda 2063, accelerate economic integration, strengthen continental security and secure Africa's rightful place in the world,” he stated.

Highlighting the evolving geopolitical and economic environment, including multiple crises and the declining availability of external financing, the AUC Chairperson called for a decisive shift towards greater African ownership, responsibility and self-reliance. He emphasised that the continent must progressively assume greater responsibility for financing its priorities and addressing the challenges confronting it.

In this regard, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf proposed reviewing the existing ceiling on statutory contributions and progressively expanding the implementation of the 0.2 per cent levy on eligible imports as a predictable mechanism for mobilising domestic resources. With regard to the AU Peace Fund, he called for consideration of a controlled annual utilisation of its capital to support responses to emerging crises, complemented by an appropriate replenishment mechanism to safeguard its long-term sustainability.

The AUC Chairperson further proposed the establishment of a Pact for a More Effective and Results-Oriented African Union (2027–2029), founded on the principle of mutual accountability between Member States and the Union. Under this proposed framework, enhanced and more equitable financial contributions by Member States would be accompanied by institutional rationalisation, greater expenditure discipline, improved operational efficiency and measurable programme results. He also called for concrete institutional reform and cost-containment measures to ensure that the Union's resources are directed towards its strategic priorities.

The AUC Chairperson expressed appreciation to H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, for hosting the Extraordinary Session, and to H.E. William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, for his leadership and continued commitment to advancing the reform agenda of the African Union.

Concluding his remarks, he reaffirmed the importance of translating the principle of African sovereignty into practical institutional and financial arrangements, stressing that: “African sovereignty must not merely be proclaimed; it must be built, organised and financed.”

In his welcome remarks, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament and Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Ghana, warmly welcomed delegates to Accra and called for renewed political commitment, solidarity and collective action in pursuit of the aspirations of Agenda 2063 and the vision of “The Africa We Want.”

Emphasising the need to move beyond acknowledging the continent's challenges towards adopting practical and decisive measures, the Minister stated: “We have not gathered to admire our challenges. We have gathered to conquer them.”

He underscored the close interdependence between institutional reform and sustainable financing, drawing attention to the disparities in the financing of the Union's three budget components. While Member States are projected to finance approximately 99 per cent of the operational budget in 2027, their contributions cover only around 4 per cent of the programme budget and approximately 12 per cent of the peace and security budget. He further observed that only 18 of the African Union's 55 Member States have implemented the 0.2 per cent levy on eligible imports.

In this context, the Minister encouraged Member States to accelerate implementation of the levy or establish equivalent predictable, transparent and verifiable domestic resource mobilisation mechanisms. He also called for the adoption of a unified programme-based budget, supported by a Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and guided by the principle of one programme per budget line. He emphasised that these measures should be aligned with a clearly defined Division of Labour among the African Union, Regional Economic Communities and Member States, ensuring coherence, complementarity and effective utilisation of available resources.

On peace and security, Hon. Ablakwa highlighted the importance of prioritising conflict prevention, strengthening early-warning systems, advancing preventive diplomacy and mediation, and operationalising the Luanda Action Plan and the AU Trigger Model. He also expressed support for increasing the Peace Fund's endowment target beyond the current US$400 million, establishing a sustainable replenishment mechanism, diversifying its funding sources and accelerating the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2719 (2023), relating to the financing of AU-led peace support operations.

Reaffirming Ghana's commitment to strengthening Africa's financial institutions, the Minister announced the country's intention to deposit its instruments of ratification for the African Central Bank, African Monetary Fund and African Investment Bank by 2027. He further pledged to strengthen domestic implementation of the 0.2 per cent levy and indicated Ghana's intention to convene an Extraordinary Summit on African Financial Institutions in Accra in 2027, during its anticipated Chairmanship of the African Union.

As part of Ghana's contribution to advancing the financing reform agenda, the Minister proposed the adoption of an Accra Declaration on Financing the Union, structured around six key commitments:

1. Endorsement of an integrated and coordinated pathway towards the sustainable financing of the African Union.

2. Implementation of the 0.2 per cent levy on eligible imports or an equivalent predictable domestic resource mobilisation mechanism.

3. Adoption of a unified programme-based budget architecture supported by a Medium-Term Expenditure Framework.

4. Strengthening the capitalisation of the AU Peace Fund towards the US$1 billion target, alongside the establishment of a sustainable replenishment mechanism.

5. Institutionalisation and strengthening of the African Union's strategic partnerships with African Multilateral Financial Institutions.

6. Review of the existing arrangements governing Member States' contributions, including the contribution ceiling and the erosion of the real value of assessed contributions.

The deliberations also underscored the importance of translating political commitments into a practical, measurable and time-bound implementation framework. In this regard, the African Union Commission was called upon to develop a comprehensive roadmap outlining clear institutional responsibilities, timelines, milestones and reporting arrangements for consideration at the 2027 #AUSummit. It was further emphasised that the implementation of the proposed reforms should remain inclusive and responsive to the needs and priorities of women, young people and underrepresented groups across the continent.

During its closed sessions, the Executive Council considered a range of strategic working documents and presentations relating to the financing of the Union. These included the Report of the High Representative on Financing the Union and the AU Peace Fund; the proposed strategic partnership between the African Union and African Multilateral Financial Institutions; and presentations by the President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and the President of the African Development Bank Group.

The deliberations are expected to contribute to shaping a more sustainable, predictable and African-owned financing framework, while advancing the institutional reforms necessary to strengthen the African Union's capacity to deliver on its continental mandate and the aspirations of Agenda 2063.

Read @ https://t.co/0d1Y2yawLR

@ymahmoudali @GhanaMFA @afreximbank @AfDB_Group

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

In Accra, Ghana this afternoon, the Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, held fruitful discussions with H.E. President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana on advancing the continent’s strategic priorities.

The Chairperson commended President @JDMahama’s leadership & commitment to Africa’s integration, financial sovereignty, peace & security, & the continental #reparations agenda. He welcomed Ghana’s efforts in mobilising international support for reparative justice, particularly the global coalition-building that contributed to the historic UN General Assembly resolution on reparations.

President Mahama updated on the importance of reparations, stressing that they must go beyond financial compensation to address the enduring consequences of slavery & colonialism, including the need for reform of the global financial architecture, debt relief, investment in education & healthcare, & the restitution of African cultural artefacts as essential components of reparative justice.

The President & the Chairperson underscored the urgency of strengthening the AU’s financial autonomy through implementation of the 0.2% levy, enabling the Union to finance its priorities & reduce dependence on external partners. The Chairperson welcomed President Mahama’s commitment to championing this & other AU initiatives.

They also discussed the G20 & the importance of leveraging Ghana’s engagement & leadership to advance Africa’s priorities, particularly debt sustainability, reform of the international financial architecture, fairer access to development financing :& a stronger African voice in global economic governance.

President Mahama outlined Ghana’s determination to advance economic sovereignty through value addition, local content, import substitution and greater control over Africa’s natural resources. He emphasised the need to move beyond exporting raw materials, jobs and wealth. The Chairperson reaffirmed the importance of these priorities, alongside strengthening African pharmaceutical and vaccine production & accelerating implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

They also exchanged views on peace & security in the Sahel, constructive engagement with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), & the need for an inclusive regional approach to address terrorism & instability. They further discussed migration governance, emphasising dialogue, solidarity & coordinated continental responses.

The Chairperson @ymahmoudali welcomed Ghana’s contribution to regional peace efforts & President Mahama’s readiness to support the Commission in advancing the AU’s strategic agenda.

President Mahama & Chairperson Youssouf reaffirmed the importance of African unity, speaking with one voice & strengthening partnerships across the Global South to advance the continent’s collective interests on the international stage.

Read @ https://t.co/VhtphUOvwJ

@GhanaPresidency @GhanaMFA @PulseGhana

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

Closing 27th Extraordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union Dedicated to Financing the Union https://t.co/wCiLhXHRcb

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

Welcome Address by Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of #Ghana at the 27th Extraordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union Dedicated to Financing the Union

Read @ https://t.co/fCsDX1F7Z0

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

In his keynote remarks at the 27th Extraordinary Session of the Executive Council of the AU Dedicated to #Financing the Union underway in Accra, the Republic of #Ghana, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the AU Commission, called for a paradigm shift towards greater African ownership & self-reliance in financing the Union's priorities.

He stressed that financing the AU is not an end in itself, but an investment of Africa's collective determination to realise #Agenda2063, accelerate economic integration, strengthen continental security & secure Africa's rightful place in the world.

Against the backdrop of multiple crises & declining external financing, he underscored that Africa cannot continue to depend on external partners to address challenges it considers its own priorities. He proposed raising the current ceiling on statutory contributions & progressively expanding implementation of the 0.2% levy on eligible imports.

On the AU Peace Fund, he called for consideration of a controlled annual utilisation of its capital to respond to crises, accompanied by a mechanism for replenishment.

The Chairperson @ymahmoudali further proposed a Pact for a More Effective and Results-Oriented AU (2027–2029), based on mutual accountability: stronger & more equitable Member State financing in return for institutional rationalisation, expenditure discipline & measurable results. He also recommend concrete measures for institutional reform & cost containment.

The Chairperson expressed his gratitude to H.E. President Dramani Mahama of Ghana for hosting the Session, & H.E. President William Ruto of Kenya for championing the reforms of the Union.

Concluding, he emphasised that African sovereignty must not merely be proclaimed; it must be built, organised & financed.

More @ https://t.co/nFv2Qhsylx

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

Follow the Opening Ceremony of the 27th Extraordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union Dedicated to Financing the Union

@ https://t.co/tqfHPMeTJI

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

27th Extraordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union Dedicated to Financing the Union https://t.co/0DsWiOsoGn

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssou, @ymahmoudali has arrived in #Accra, #Ghana for the 27th Extraordinary Session of the Executive Council of the AU Dedicated to Financing the Union.

More @ https://t.co/PsaWHt6X2c

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

Tired of staring at your screen all week?

Your body is calling for a RESET.
This Saturday, swap your desk for the dance floor, your notifications for music and your morning scroll for movement.

Dance fitness. Ethiopian rhythms. Stretching and wellness. Fresh juices, smoothies and good company.

Join Africa CDC and Ethio Dance Fitness for Healthy Morning Addis.

Saturday, 14 November | 7:30–11:00 AM
Addis Ababa – Exact venue shared with confirmed participants

It is FREE, Come on time. Bring your energy. Bring a friend.

RSVP: https://t.co/jvIYu6hwiz
RESET. ENERGIZE. RECHARGE.

Road to CPHIA 2026 | For a Healthy Africa.

#HealthyMorningAddis #RoadToCPHIA2026 #ForAHealthyAfrica

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

Today H.E. @MosesVilakati, Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment @AU_DARBE attended the opening ceremony of the COP31 Leaders’ Summit, representing H.E. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, @ymahmoudali, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission. The participation reaffirmed the African Union’s Commitment to advancing climate action and amplifying Africa’s priorities on the global stage. #Agenda2063 #AfricaCop #COP31

Learn more@ https://t.co/yXmvzSNjxj

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

Le Président de la Commission de l’Union africaine, S.E. M. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, a reçu M. James Swan, Représentant spécial du Secrétaire général des Nations Unies pour la République démocratique du Congo et chef de la MONUSCO, ainsi que M. Huang Xia, Envoyé spécial du Secrétaire général des Nations Unies pour la région des Grands Lacs. Ils ont échangé sur l’évolution de la situation dans l’est de la République démocratique du Congo et sur les efforts régionaux en faveur de la paix et de la stabilité.

Le Président @ymahmoudali a appelé à une coordination plus étroite entre l’Union africaine et les Nations Unies et a réaffirmé le rôle central de la médiation conduite par l’Union africaine ainsi que l’importance de l’appropriation africaine du processus. Il a souligné que le dialogue demeure indispensable et doit associer toutes les parties prenantes congolaises concernées. Il a également insisté sur l’importance d’un dialogue régional sur les questions de sécurité entre les pays concernés, afin d’apaiser les tensions et de rétablir la confiance.

Pour s’attaquer aux causes profondes du conflit, le Président a souligné le rôle de la coopération économique régionale, notamment à travers des projets communs d’infrastructure, la coopération en matière de ressources naturelles et le développement de corridors économiques. Cette coopération peut renforcer la confiance mutuelle et apporter des bénéfices durables aux populations de la région.

Les échanges ont porté sur la mise en œuvre des engagements pris dans le cadre des processus de Washington et de Doha et sur le prochain renouvellement du mandat de la MONUSCO, avec une attention particulière au rôle de la Mission dans la protection des civils et l’appui au suivi du cessez-le-feu. Ils ont également abordé l’accès humanitaire et les préoccupations croissantes en matière de santé publique dans l’est de la République démocratique du Congo.

Le Président et ses interlocuteurs ont réaffirmé leur volonté de renforcer leur coordination et de poursuivre leur engagement en faveur de la paix, de la sécurité et de la stabilité

Lire @ https://t.co/ouZxqal5sV

@MONUSCO @UN

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, received Mr James Swan, Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Head of MONUSCO, and Mr Huang Xia, Special Envoy of the United Nations Secretary-General for the Great Lakes Region. They discussed the evolving situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and regional efforts to advance peace and stability.

The Chairperson @ymahmoudali called for closer coordination between the African Union and the United Nations and reaffirmed the centrality of African Union-led mediation and African ownership. He stressed that dialogue remains imperative and must bring together all relevant Congolese stakeholders. He also emphasised the importance of regional security dialogue among the countries concerned to ease tensions and rebuild trust.

To address the root causes of the conflict, the Chairperson highlighted the role of regional economic cooperation, particularly through joint infrastructure projects, cooperation on natural resources and the development of economic corridors. Such cooperation can build mutual trust and deliver lasting benefits for communities across the region.

The discussions covered implementation of the commitments made under the Washington and Doha processes and the upcoming renewal of MONUSCO’s mandate, with particular attention to the Mission’s role in protecting civilians and supporting ceasefire monitoring. They also addressed humanitarian access and growing public health concerns in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The Chairperson and his interlocutors reaffirmed their commitment to closer coordination and sustained engagement in support of peace, security and stability in the Great Lakes Region.

Read @ https://t.co/z6LCJwfNVk

@MONUSCO @UN

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, received this afternoon at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa, H.E. Mr. Pekka Haavisto, United Nations Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for #Sudan.

They exchanged views on ongoing diplomatic & mediation efforts to secure a ceasefire & advance a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Sudan, including the AU’s engagement with the Quintet.

Mr. Haavisto commended the AU’s leadership & sustained engagement with Sudanese stakeholders to address the political & humanitarian crisis. He also welcomed the Chairperson’s plans to reopen the AU Liaison Office in Khartoum.

The Chairperson @ymahmoudali briefed Mr. Haavisto on the AU’s diplomatic engagements, including through the offices of Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, AU High Representative for Silencing the Guns & Chair of the AU High-Level Panel on Sudan, & H.E. Ambassador Mohamed Belaiche, Special Representative of the Chairperson & Head of the AU Liaison Office in Sudan. These efforts include engagement with Sudanese stakeholders & coordination with the Quintet & Quad.

The Chairperson reiterated the AU’s position that any credible pathway towards a sustainable resolution must be inclusive, Sudanese-led & Sudanese-owned, with the people of Sudan at the centre of the process.

They both underscored the importance of close AU-UN coordination & reaffirmed the AU’s central role in facilitating the political process, while expressing grave concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation & the urgent need to address the suffering of the Sudanese population.

Read @ https://t.co/fIb6RH8UhP

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, this morning received H.E. Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, former Chairperson of the AU Commission.

Their engagement focused on the implementation of Agenda 2063, including ongoing efforts to advance its flagship initiatives & translate the aspirations of the continent’s development blueprint into tangible outcomes. The Chairperson expressed his appreciation to Madam Zuma for her vision & leadership in initiating & advancing Agenda 2063 during her tenure, as well as for her continued engagement & contribution to Africa’s development agenda. He encouraged her to sustain her engagement with the AU in support of the full implementation of the continental blueprint.

The Chairperson @ymahmoudali briefed Madam Zuma on progress in the implementation of Agenda 2063, highlighting the importance of sustainable & predictable financing, as well as ongoing institutional reforms aimed at strengthening the AU’s capacity to deliver on its continental mandate.

They also exchanged views on the Ebola situation, underscoring the need for concerted efforts by African governments, the private sector & international partners to support response measures.

Madam Zuma expressed her appreciation to the Chairperson for receiving her & commended his leadership & continued efforts to advance the AU’s continental agenda.

Read @ https://t.co/ncvXkkUjRA

@DlaminiZuma

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

Towards a Financially Sustainable and Self-Reliant African Union: Advancing African Ownership, Accountability and Institutional Effectiveness.

The 27th Extraordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU), dedicated to Financing the Union, will be convened on 13 November 2026 in Accra, Republic of Ghana, jointly organised by the African Union Commission (AUC) and the Government of the Republic of Ghana.

The Extraordinary Session will take place against the backdrop of ongoing efforts to strengthen the African Union's financial sustainability, institutional effectiveness and strategic autonomy. Despite previous commitments to achieve financial self-reliance, the Union continues to rely significantly on external partners to finance its programmes and peace and security activities. The African Union Peace Fund will also feature prominently in the discussions.

The Session will provide an opportunity for Member States to consider an integrated reform pathway towards sustainable financing, encompassing financial autonomy, institutional rationalisation, improved programme effectiveness and a unified programme-based budget architecture supported by a medium-term expenditure framework.

The Session will bring together Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Ministers of Finance of AU Member States, alongside senior AU leadership and representatives of AU organs, Regional Economic Communities and international partners, to deliberate on measures to strengthen the Union's financial sustainability, independence and institutional effectiveness.

More @ https://t.co/rmJ3fLrLl0

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, received the President of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP), Hon. Dr. Fateh Boutbig, for discussions on strengthening the role, effectiveness & institutional capacity of the Parliament within the AU.

H.E. Dr. Boutbig briefed the Chairperson on ongoing efforts to revitalise the Parliament, including the review of its Rules of Procedure to address institutional & operational challenges, improve its effectiveness & align its work with the AU's vision & priorities. He also outlined preparations for the next Ordinary Session, scheduled for 1–17 December 2026.

He presented programme of initiatives for 2027, including establishing a parliamentary research centre & a parliamentary training programme; strengthening cooperation with the AU Peace & Security Council on conflict prevention & early warning; & convening continental conferences on women's leadership, youth participation, political parties & democratic governance.

The Chairperson @ymahmoudali welcomed the renewed dynamism & reform agenda under Dr. Boutbig's leadership, underscoring that the Pan-African Parliament must serve as a meaningful platform for dialogue, the exchange of ideas, democratic participation & the articulation of the aspirations of African peoples.

Mr. Youssouf emphasised the importance of strengthening political pluralism, freedom of expression & the rights of opposition parties, noting that constructive political dialogue & inclusive democratic institutions are essential to sustainable peace & stability.

The Chairperson reaffirmed the AU Commission's commitment to supporting efforts to advance the ratification of the relevant Protocol, while encouraging the Parliament to pursue practical reforms & initiatives that enhance its relevance and standing within the AU institutional architecture.

The Chairperson & Dr. Fateh underscored the importance of closer collaboration, institutional strengthening & sustainable financing to ensure that the Pan-African Parliament effectively contributes to continental integration, democratic governance & the realisation of the AU Agenda 2063.

Read @ https://t.co/hLmitJzEaQ

@AfrikParliament

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

African Group in Geneva Concludes Workshop on WTO Issues and Reaffirms Commitment to Advancing Africa's Trade and Development Priorities.

The African Group in Geneva successfully concluded a Workshop on World Trade Organization (WTO) Issues held on 7 November 2026. The workshop brought together Ambassadors, trade experts from African Missions, and representatives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), and the WTO to exchange views on key issues under discussion in the multilateral trading system and their implications for Africa's economic transformation agenda.

The workshop, chaired by H.E. Ambassador Geraldo Gonçalves Miguel Saranga of Mozambique, was officially opened by H.E. Ambassador Ndiitah Nghipondoka-Robiati of Namibia, Coordinator of the African Group on WTO Issues. A welcome message was delivered by H.E. Dr. Girma Amente Nono, Permanent Representative of the African Union and Permanent Observer to the United Nations in Geneva, who underscored the importance of African solidarity and strategic engagement in the evolving global trade landscape.

In his remarks, Dr. Nono emphasized the need for Africa to remain united and proactive in shaping WTO discussions to ensure that the development dimension remains at the centre of ongoing reform efforts. He further highlighted the importance of aligning Africa's engagement in the WTO with the objectives of the AfCFTA and the aspirations of Agenda 2063.

Dr Tsotetsi Makong from the AfCFTA Secretariat made a presentation on the interface between the WTO and the AfCFTA, highlighting key linkages, opportunities and strategic considerations for continental trade integration in the context of WTO reform.

The workshop provided an important platform for assessing recent developments in the WTO, including the outcomes and follow-up processes of the Fourteenth WTO Ministerial Conference (MC14), ongoing discussions on WTO reform, agriculture, fisheries subsidies, development, dispute settlement reform, digital trade, and the integration of African priorities into future negotiations.

Participants underscored the need for a stronger, more inclusive, transparent, and development-oriented multilateral trading system that responds effectively to the needs and aspirations of developing countries, particularly African economies and Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

Discussions highlighted the importance of ensuring that WTO reforms deliver meaningful and equitable outcomes for developing countries while preserving the principles of inclusiveness, consensus-based decision-making, and Special and Differential Treatment.

The workshop also underscored the growing importance of strengthening coherence between multilateral trade discussions and Africa's continental integration agenda. The African Group expressed its appreciation for the valuable contributions of the African Union Mission in Geneva, the Economic, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals (ETTIM) Department of the African Union Commission, the AfCFTA Secretariat, UNECA, and the WTO Secretariat. Participants further called upon these institutions to continue providing technical assistance and capacity-building support to strengthen the effective participation of African delegations across the broad range of WTO negotiations and reform processes.

The Africa Group also reiterated its commitment to securing Observer Status for the African Union at the WTO, recognizing that such status would strengthen institutional coordination between continental and multilateral trade processes and enhance Africa's collective engagement in WTO deliberations. Participants stressed that a united African voice remains essential to ensuring that the multilateral trading system contributes effectively to Africa's industrialization, economic diversification, food security, digital transformation, and sustainable development objectives.

The African Group reaffirmed its determination to continue engaging constructively with all WTO Members and stakeholders to promote a fair, inclusive, transparent, and development-oriented multilateral trading system that supports the aspirations of Africa and the successful implementation of Agenda 2063.

In her closing remarks, H.E. Ambassador Ndiitah Nghipondoka-Robiati of Namibia, Coordinator of the African Group on WTO Issues, reaffirmed the commitment of African Members to deepen coordination and advance common African positions in ongoing WTO processes.

Read @ https://t.co/hQxHjvgCHS

Lire @ https://t.co/Lr9OzcZ68Q

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, @ymahmoudali, received H.E. Elzein Ibrahim Hussein, Ambassador of the Republic of #Sudan to Ethiopia & Permanent Representative to the AU.

Their discussions focused on the situation in Sudan and the AU’s continued engagement in support of peace, stability & recovery in the country.

Amb. Elzein Ibrahim Hussein expressed appreciation of AU's diplomatic efforts to end the current conflict.

They also exchanged views on strengthening cooperation in the health & education sectors, as well as advancing broader social & economic recovery efforts.

The Chairperson reaffirmed the AU’s commitment to accompanying Sudan in its pursuit of peace, stability & economic recovery. They also discussed the possibility of a visit by the Chairperson to Khartoum

Read @ https://t.co/ngCarJYeKk

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

📅 Save the Date

The African Union invites you to the 23rd Extraordinary Session of the Assembly on African Manufacturing of Health Products.

3–5 December 2026
#Nairobi, Republic of #Kenya.

Theme: “One Africa, One Market and One Health Future”.

Hosted by Kenya, whose President, H.E. William Samoei Ruto, serves as the AU Champion on Local Manufacturing, the Extraordinary Summit will focus on advancing African manufacturing of health products and improving access to essential supplies.

#Agenda2063
#AULocalManufacturing