37th African Union Summit Kicks Off in Addis Ababa

ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA – The 37th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU) is set to commence today in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa. This pivotal two-day summit gathers leaders from across the continent to deliberate on crucial issues under the banner of this year’s theme, “Educate an African fit for the 21st Century: Building resilient education systems for increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning in Africa.”

According to Ethiopian News Agency, the event will see the participation of AU member country leaders, representatives from various international organizations, and other esteemed guests from around the world. High-profile figures, including Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the current AU Chairperson Comorian President Azali Assoumani, AU Commission Chairperson Mussa Faki Mhamat, and United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, are scheduled to address the assembly at its opening session today.

The assembly’s agenda is set to cover a range of critical topics, including the status of peace and security on the continent, regional integration, and development initiatives. A major focus will be the launch of the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan of the AU’s Agenda 2063, dubbed ‘The Africa we want.’ This long-term blueprint, aimed at guiding Africa’s socio-economic development and integration over fifty years, was adopted following widespread consultations across the continent.

The Assembly of Heads of State and Government, as the AU’s highest policy and decision-making body, plays a crucial role in setting the organization’s policies, establishing its priorities, adopting its annual program, and overseeing the implementation of its policies and decisions.