The African Union: A strong commitment to integration, peace and sustainable development in Africa
The 43rd Ordinary Session of the African Union in Nairobi, Kenya, was marked by a series of inspiring speeches from African leaders determined to promote integration, peace and sustainable development on the continent. These high-level interventions underscored the importance of regional cooperation, conflict resolution and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals in Africa.
In his opening speech, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki, highlighted the supra-national organization’s commitment to continental integration and conflict resolution. He highlighted the progress made in the implementation of Agenda 2063 and called for increased collaboration among African countries to achieve common goals. The African Union is determined to work hand in hand with its Member States to strengthen regional integration, promote peace and sustainable development in Africa.
The Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations, Madam Amina M., hailed the efforts of the African Union in promoting integration and sustainable development in Africa. She stressed the importance of international cooperation to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and called for increased support for African initiatives. The United Nations is committed to supporting the African Union in its efforts to build an integrated, prosperous and peaceful continent.
The President of Kenya, William Ruto, highlighted the importance of African integration for economic growth and poverty reduction. He hailed the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and highlighted its potential to boost intra-African trade. President Ruto has said that Kenya will abolish entry visa for visitors in the near future, thus contributing to continental integration.
Finally, the President of the Comoros, Azali, emphasized the importance of peace and conflict resolution in Africa. He called for a frank and sincere dialogue between the parties in conflict and underlined the key role of education in the development of the continent. He recalled that education is the most powerful weapon to change the world and insisted on investment in youth education and inclusive policies to ensure a better future for all Africans.
This first part of the 43rd Ordinary Session of the African Union has clearly demonstrated the commitment of African leaders to regional integration, peace and sustainable development in Africa. These inspiring speeches highlighted the importance of cooperation and solidarity among African countries to overcome common challenges. The African Union and its Member States will continue to work together to build an integrated, prosperous and peaceful continent, by implementing concrete initiatives and promoting regional cooperation.
The session will continue with other speakers during the second part, and an official closing will mark the end of this 43rd ordinary session of the AU. African leaders will continue to work towards realizing the vision of Agenda 2063 and promoting the well-being of all Africans. Integration, peace and sustainable development remain at the heart of the African agenda, and regional cooperation will play a key role in achieving this common goal. Africa is moving towards a better future, and the inspiring speeches of African leaders are proof of this. It is now up to all actors to realize these aspirations for a united, prosperous and peaceful Africa