Addis Ababa (Horn Post) The 39th Ordinary Summit of the African Union, held in Addis Ababa in 2026, brought together African heads of state and government to deliberate on the continent’s political stability, peace and security, economic integration, and sustainable development.
Key Addresses by African Leaders:
Opening the summit, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission emphasized the need for renewed commitment to African-led solutions, calling on member states to strengthen unity, institutional reforms, and collective responses to security and economic challenges facing the continent.
Abiy Ahmed, speaking as host leader, underscored the importance of regional cooperation and multilateralism, urging African nations to prioritize dialogue, peacebuilding, and economic resilience amid global uncertainty.
Several heads of state highlighted the persistent security challenges across parts of Africa, including terrorism, internal conflicts, and unconstitutional changes of government. Leaders stressed that peace and stability remain essential prerequisites for development and continental integration.
Economic transformation and implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) featured prominently in summit discussions. Presidents and prime ministers called for accelerated intra-African trade, investment in infrastructure, and job creation, particularly for Africa’s growing youth population.
Climate change and food security were also central themes. African leaders appealed for stronger global climate financing while reaffirming the continent’s commitment to sustainable development, climate adaptation, and protection of vulnerable communities.
Continental Priorities and Outcomes:
The summit reaffirmed the African Union’s commitment to:
Strengthening peace and security mechanisms, promoting democratic governance and constitutional order, Advancing economic integration and self-reliance
Enhancing Africa’s unified voice on global platforms:
Leaders concluded by calling for solidarity among member states to ensure that Africa’s strategic priorities are implemented effectively and that the continent plays a more influential role in global decision-making.
Prepared by:
Horn staff reporter
Addiss Ababa, Ethiopia.
