AMN Plus-February 14/2026
Speaking at the opening session of the 39th Ordinary session of the African Union Summit, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mohmoud Ali Youssouf said the Summit takes place in a context of geopolitical crisis, both on the continent and globally.
The chairperson reaffirmed that armed conflicts persist in several regions of Africa.
“Political and institutional fragility in a number of our countries remains a serious concern in the Continent,” Mohmoud noted
Unconstitutional changes of government are resurfacing and remind us of the dark post-independence periods.
The disruption of the international order has a significant impact on the continent, compounded by recurring external interference in our internal affairs.
Multilateralism is under severe strain, while unilateralism and protectionism are on the rise.
In light of this reality, the chairperson person urged Africa must strengthen itself through the accelerated implementation of political and economic integration programs.
Pan-African institutions must intensify their efforts and determination. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the African Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), Africa CDC, and other African Union mechanisms will be central to this effort.
Increasingly, we will also rely on African financial institutions such as the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), the African Development Bank, and Afreximbank.
By 2050, Africa must be able to stand alongside the world’s major economic blocs.
By Birhanu Workneh
