Africa-Press. The African Union’s Executive Council convened in Addis Ababa at the level of foreign ministers for a two-day meeting ahead of the 39th AU Summit of Heads of State and Government. The gathering comes amid accelerating regional and global crises and mounting pressures on the continent.
Ministers are reviewing a packed agenda led by water issues, peace and security concerns, and political and humanitarian developments in several African countries. They are also assessing progress on the “Silencing the Guns” initiative and efforts to curb coups and unconstitutional changes of government.
AU Commission Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf acknowledged that attempts to contain armed conflicts have yet to achieve the desired results, calling for more effective tools and approaches. He welcomed the return of Guinea and Gabon to AU membership, while expressing concern over developments in Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
On the economic front, discussions highlighted the African Continental Free Trade Area as a cornerstone of integration, alongside the need to mobilize domestic resources to finance development. Officials also warned that water and sanitation shortages are becoming a direct obstacle to growth and industrialization.
A Peace and Security Council session is scheduled on the sidelines, with developments in Sudan expected to feature prominently.
