The African Union Executive Council met in a four-day session to discuss many issues crucial to Africa’s development. Among the items on the agenda were the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), education, budgetary issues, African candidacies to international bodies, AU institutional reforms and Agenda 2063. .
In his opening address, Dr. Alfred Mutua, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kenya, stressed the importance of regional integration and harnessing Africa’s comparative advantages to foster free trade and liberate the socio-economic potential of the continent. He also underscored the need for Africa to consolidate its voice on climate change and claim a fair share of global trade and investment.
The bi-annual coordination meeting of the Executive Council will assess the state of African integration, coordinate the division of labor and harmonize policies with a view to accelerating the integration of the continent, according to the Commissioner for agriculture, rural development, blue economy and sustainable environment of the African Union, Mrs. Josefa Sacko.
This meeting is of crucial importance as it demonstrates the commitment of the African Union to regional integration, peace, security and economic development in Africa. Delegates from Member States are present to share their views and work together to realize the ambitious goals of Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Agreement.
It is essential to underline that Africa faces many challenges, but it also abounds with opportunities. Regional integration, economic development and cooperation among African Union Member States are key elements to address these challenges and seize these opportunities.
In conclusion, the meeting of the Executive Council of the African Union is an important step towards a more integrated and prosperous Africa. It testifies to the willingness of Member States to work together to build a better future for the continent. By harnessing Africa’s comparative advantages and implementing coherent policies, Africa can realize its potential and become a major player on the global economic stage