Addis Ababa—Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, has urged a resurgence of nationalism and Pan-Africanism to address critical challenges facing the continent. Speaking at the 37th Ordinary Session of the African Union, he emphasized the need for unity and action.
Mahamat’s call resonated with African leaders at the summit, underscoring the urgency for renewed commitment to tackle pressing issues. He expressed profound concerns about peace, political instability, climate change, economic governance, poverty, and the marginalization of women and youth in Africa’s development.
Terrorism’s rise in Africa and unconstitutional changes of government were also highlighted as distressing trends. Mahamat lamented the impact of irregularities in elections and called for urgent action to counter these challenges.
While acknowledging the AU’s institutional achievements, including reforms and progress in integration, Mahamat stressed the need for greater commitment from member states and partners. He also emphasized the operationalization of new organs, particularly in health, to ensure effective implementation of decisions.
In pointing out organizational limitations within the AU, Mahamat expressed concern over the Commission’s limited powers and the lack of political will to implement decisions. He urged Africa to engage in robust international partnerships and emphasized the need to rekindle the spirit of unity and collective action that characterized the fight against colonialism and apartheid.
The Chairperson’s address at the summit marks a pivotal moment in reinvigorating African nationalism and Pan-Africanism to address the continent’s critical challenges.
