- Assembly deliberated on various continental priorities
The 37th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU) has recently concluded, with a focus on the theme “Educate an African Fit for the 21st Century: Building Resilient Education Systems for Increased Access to Inclusive, Lifelong, Quality, and Relevant Learning in Africa.” This three-day event brought together African Heads of State and Government, along with high-level representatives from across the continent and beyond.
During this session, Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, President of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, was elected as the Chairperson of the Union for 2024, succeeding outgoing Chair Azali Assoumani, President of the Union of Comoros.
Assoumani, in his role as outgoing Chair, presented a comprehensive report on the achievements and activities carried out during his tenure. He highlighted successes in various areas including peace and security, socio-economic development, youth and women’s empowerment, unity in African positions on global issues, infrastructure enhancement, agriculture, climate change, education, health, and ICT. Additionally, he reiterated the importance of peace in the Middle East, advocating for a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine.
Addressing the Assembly, Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), emphasized critical concerns facing the continent such as peace, political and institutional instability, climate change, economic governance deficits, integration challenges, poverty, and the marginalization of women and youth in development and leadership processes. He urged Member States to proactively engage with these issues to achieve the aspirations outlined in Agenda 2063 for a transformed and prosperous Africa.
Faki stressed the need for a renewed commitment to unity and Pan-Africanism to address these challenges effectively. He also praised progress in institutional reforms and regional integration, particularly through initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Notable achievements include advancements in the Peace Fund, the African Common Positions on climate change, reform efforts in global governance, financing for African peacekeeping missions, and the AU’s accession to the G20 Forum.
As the AU’s highest decision-making body, the Assembly deliberated on various continental priorities. Botswana, represented by Vice-President Slumber Tsogwane, reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with all member states and partners of the AU to realize the vision of an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa.
