Outgoing AU Commissioner urges solidarity, collective actions to overcome continental challenges

Addis Ababa, February 12, 2025 (FMC) – In his opening remarks at the 46th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union, the outgoing Commissioner of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, reflected on his 17 years as Minister of Foreign Affairs and eight years as Chairperson of the AU Commission.

He acknowledged the significant efforts made alongside the support of heads of state, recognizing that while progress has been achieved, challenges remain.

Despite facing political, economic, and diplomatic adversities, Moussa Faki highlighted the successful handling of health crises, including COVID-19, Ebola, and Pox, and praised the establishment of the Africa CDC as an effective tool. He went on to mention the development of the African Medicines Agency and the emergence of the African humanitarian agency from its limbo. Initiatives in education are evolving towards innovation and artificial intelligence, while the African continental free trade area continues to make strides towards operationalization.

The outgoing commissioner noted advancements in climate change, agriculture, and the blue economy, stressing the importance of infrastructure and energy developments. He pointed out the progress in the institutional reform of the African Union and the expansion of international partnerships, enhancing the continent’s international credibility and visibility.

He outlined the challenges faced by the continent, citing violent conflicts in Sudan and the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo as particularly tragic. He expressed concerns over the ongoing difficulties in financing the AU and the weakening of African solidarity and Pan-Africanism.

Moussa Faki stressed the urgency for collective action, emphasizing that recent global challenges make it imperative for Africa to unite and confront its issues head-on.

As a new leadership is set to take charge, he called attention to critical concerns relating to political architecture, peace, security, and governance, urging the upcoming leaders to prioritize these areas for the survival and effectiveness of the organization. He concluded with a wish for success for the next leadership, underscoring the importance of addressing the continent’s significant challenges promptly.