The African Union (AU) Summit in 2024, scheduled between January 15th and 26th, is set to be a defining moment for the continent as it tackles key issues of peace, security, regional integration, and sustainable development. The 47th Ordinary Session of the Permanent Representative’s Committee (PRC) aims to assess and bolster efforts in addressing conflicts in member states and fostering regional cohesion and growth.
H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, in his address to the PRC, highlighted the dire conflicts in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He underscored the need for decisive action, given the fragile global situation, and called for African unity and solidarity to meet these challenges.
Ambassador Youssouf Mondoha Assoumani, Chairperson of the PRC and Permanent Representative of the Union of Comoros to the AU, echoed Mahamat's call for unity. He emphasized the role of dialogue in building a world of peace and solidarity, acknowledging the suffering caused by global conflicts.
A key focus of the summit is the humanitarian crisis in Palestine, with H.E. Faki advocating for a ceasefire and a concrete two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. He described the ongoing conflict as a humanitarian tragedy, marked by the disregard of international law, and urged the global community to act.
The summit will also assess the progress of crucial continental initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area and visa openness policies. These initiatives are instrumental in realizing the sustainable growth and development goals outlined in Africa’s development blueprint, Agenda 2063. The PRC will review the First 10-Year Plan of Agenda 2063 and set the stage for launching the Second Ten-Year Plan.
Education and training are also high on the agenda, with the 2024 theme focusing on building resilient education systems for inclusive and lifelong learning. H.E. Faki highlighted that reform in education is vital for impacting several sectors, including security, agriculture, and digitalization, contributing to the continent's overall prosperity.
Key discussions at the PRC session will include the African Union’s institutional and financial reforms, the operationalization of the African Union Peace Fund, the Africa CDC, and the establishment of the African Medicines Agency (AMA). Reports from various AU organs and specialized committees will also be examined, covering a wide range of topics from human rights to economic and trade matters.
Concluding with the Executive Council (Ministerial Session) in February and followed by the Assembly of Heads of State and Government, the summit represents a strategic platform for African leaders to collaborate on pivotal issues. The African Union Summit 2024 is poised to be a significant event, shaping the future of the continent in terms of peace, integration, and sustainable development.
Follow the latest news on Google News
