Speakers said Africa has made progress on lowering trade barriers under AfCFTA, but restrictive visa rules still block the flow of people needed for services trade, investment, tourism and cross-border work.

“The evidence is clear. The economics support openness. The human story demands it,” said Alex Mubiru, AfDB’s Director General for Eastern Africa, urging countries to move beyond gradual reforms to “transformative change.”

Amma A. Twum-Amoah, the AU Commission’s Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, called for faster implementation of existing continental frameworks, describing visa openness as a practical tool for expanding regional markets and improving responses to economic and humanitarian shocks.

Former AU Commission chairperson Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma said free movement is central to the AU’s long-term development vision, Agenda 2063. “If we accept that we are Africans, then we must be able to move freely across our continent,” she said, urging states to implement the African Passport and the Free Movement of Persons Protocol.

Ghana ’s Trade and Industry Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare said her country’s open visa approach for African travellers has already supported business travel and tourism, and helped attract investors.

Participants also pointed to new data from the Africa Visa Openness Index showing that more than half of intra-African trips still require visas before departure, which they said continues to slow down trade and integration.

Mesfin Bekele, chief executive of Ethiopian Airlines, said visa liberalisation should move alongside efforts to improve aviation connectivity, including full implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

Organisers said progress toward a visa-free Africa will require political will and practical steps such as aligning migration policies , improving border infrastructure and building interoperable digital identity and information-sharing systems. 

At a recent African Union summit, reparations for the mass human trafficking, colonialism and apartheid were designated as a flagship priority of the Union. The move marks a significant moment in a long-running effort to coordinate Africa’s position on one of the gravest chapters in global history.

Ghana has been tasked with leading the development of a unified proposal. Situated on the West African coast, Ghana - like several neighbouring countries - became a major hub in the trafficking of enslaved Africans. Hundreds of thousands of men, women and children were forcibly taken from its shores and transported across the Atlantic in appalling conditions.

For decades, there was little international consensus about how to address this history. Many of the countries responsible sought to frame slavery as a closed chapter. Some African states prioritised other urgent post-independence challenges. Caribbean nations, whose populations include many descendants of enslaved Africans, developed their own approaches shaped by different political and economic realities.

Now, however, the African Union is attempting to bring together African states and the wider diaspora behind a common position.

The gravest crime

At the heart of the new initiative is a draft declaration that characterises the trafficking and enslavement of Africans as the gravest crime against humanity.

Slavery is already prohibited under international law as a peremptory norm - a jus cogens principle from which no derogation is permitted. The proposed resolution builds on this legal foundation and rests on three pillars - historical accuracy, legal defensibility and continental and diaspora alignment.

The language has been deliberately refined. The draft title reads: Declaration of the Trafficking in Enslaved Africans and Racialised Chattel Enslavement of Africans as the Gravest Crime Against Humanity . Supporters argue that such precision matters. It recognises the systematic trafficking of millions of Africans, the racialised and institutional nature of chattel enslavement, and the unprecedented scale and enduring consequences of these crimes.

The emphasis on describing slavery as a crime - rather than merely a trade or an economic system - reflects a broader shift in tone. For many African leaders, justice begins with acknowledgement: first, that a crime occurred, and second, an understanding of its nature and consequences.

A 15-point plan

Although the full text of the new declaration has yet to be published, its direction is informed by the 2023 Accra Proclamation on Reparations.

That proclamation sets out a 15-point plan. It includes the creation of a reparations fund, but extends far beyond financial compensation. It calls for reform of international financial institutions to produce a fairer global system for countries subjected to slavery and colonial exploitation. It demands the return of cultural artefacts removed during periods of enslavement and colonial rule. It urges the formation of a joint front across nations and peoples who suffered as a result of these systems.

The proclamation also links historical injustice to contemporary global inequalities. It highlights the disproportionate impact of climate change on the Global South and argues that patterns of extraction and dependency established during colonialism continue today through economic and cultural dependence on former colonial powers.

In this framing, reparations are not simply about calculating a monetary sum for historical suffering. They are about restructuring relationships and correcting systemic imbalances that trace their origins to slavery and colonial rule.

It's not (only) about the money

African leaders have been clear that the issue of reparations and restitutive justice goes beyond money.

Setting the historical record straight is seen as a central objective. Around 12 million Africans were forcibly transported across the Atlantic. An estimated 2 million died during the Middle Passage - some from disease and brutality, others thrown overboard, and some choosing death over a life in bondage.

The argument is that this historical reality must be formally recognised at the highest international level. Supporters stress that no single payment or lump sum could meaningfully account for the scale of suffering or the generational harm inflicted. The damage extended far beyond those who were taken. Entire societies were destabilised. Generations of descendants across Africa and the diaspora continue to live with the social and economic consequences.

Questions of financial quantum are still under research, and leaders suggest that any eventual settlement would not simply involve distributing money to governments. Instead, they envision a broader programme of transformation - returning stolen artefacts, addressing structural inequities, and restoring opportunity to affected communities.

A Changing Global Context

The renewed push comes at a time of uncertainty in the international system. The multilateral order established after the Second World War is under strain. Nations increasingly act unilaterally and prioritise domestic interests. Humanitarian assistance and overseas development funding to Africa and other parts of the Global South are declining.

In this context, African leaders argue that the continent cannot remain a passive actor, appealing for aid while global priorities shift. Instead, they say Africa must take its destiny into its own hands and assert its moral and legal claims on the world stage.

The past cannot be undone. But it can be acknowledged. For those leading this initiative, acknowledgement is the first step towards justice.

After centuries in which the suffering of enslaved Africans was minimised, reframed or ignored, many across the continent believe the moment has come to secure formal recognition - and to begin reshaping the systems that grew out of that injustice.

World Reframed is produced in London by Global South World, part of the Impactum Group. Its editors are Duncan Hooper and Ismail Akwei.

ISSN 2978-4891

A central theme was the need for African countries to process their natural resources locally instead of exporting them in raw form. Leaders argued that local beneficiation would increase economic returns and strengthen industrial development.

Ghana announced a specific policy measure during the summit. President John Dramani Mahama declared that by 2030, the country will end the export of unprocessed mineral ores. The directive applies to manganese, bauxite, and iron ore.

"By 2030, there will not be any raw mineral ores leaving Ghana," Mahama said at his "Accra Reset" side event. The policy aims to promote local industrialisation and increase the value Ghana gains from its natural resources.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa also warned against what he described as a "new form of colonialism", where foreign economies target Africa’s natural resources. He said minerals should be processed locally. "It should no longer be a case where rock, soil and dust is exported out of Africa without being beneficiated," Ramaphosa told delegates. He urged African nations to work together to ensure their resources benefit their citizens.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the historical exploitation of Africa’s resources. "No more exploitation, no more plundering," he said, stressing that "the people of Africa must benefit from the resources of Africa". He called for fair and sustainable value chains to ensure African countries benefit "first and fully" from their critical minerals.

President Mahama also announced changes to Ghana’s cocoa financing system. For nearly 30 years, Ghana has relied on syndicated loans from international banks to purchase cocoa, using cocoa beans as collateral.

According to Mahama, this system has limited domestic processing because collateralised beans must be exported to international financiers. Ghana has the capacity to process 400,000 tons of cocoa locally, but local processors have not had sufficient access to raw beans.

Under the new approach, Ghana will raise domestic bonds in cedis to finance cocoa purchases. "Ghana has enough cedis to pay for its cocoa," Mahama said, adding that the change will "immediately" release 400,000 tons of beans for local processing. Beginning with the 2026–27 season, at least 50% of all cocoa beans must be processed within the country.

The policy announcements were presented under the "Accra Reset" initiative. The framework focuses on strengthening resource sovereignty and shifting from aid dependency to investment-led growth.

Mahama criticised delays in implementing AU decisions. "African leaders come with decisions, agree and develop frameworks, but what is missing is urgency and implementation," he said. He urged leaders to "stop talking and start implementing" to create opportunities for young people and reduce irregular migration.

The summit also marked leadership changes within the AU. Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye will assume the AU chairmanship for 2026. Outgoing chairperson President João Lourenço of Angola said Africa’s development is not possible "if we leave anyone behind," and called for continued investment in infrastructure and human capital.

President Mahama, who serves as the AU Champion on Reparations, is expected to seek similar support at the 50th CARICOM Summit on February 24, 2026. The resolution is scheduled to be presented at the UN General Assembly on March 25.

“All peoples of African descent have been waiting for this day. The truth cannot be buried. The legal foundations are sound; the moral imperative is undeniable,” the president is quoted.

He added, “This marked a historic turning point in the life of our Union, not as a symbolic or commemorative act, but as a strategic and international commitment.”

Ablakwa described the AU’s endorsement as a “historic milestone,” praising diplomatic efforts and collaboration with global experts and activists to advance the initiative.

In a related development, President Mahama, speaking at a high-level summit in Addis Ababa on February 13, urged the international community to go beyond what he described as “ceremonial language” on Africa’s historical injustices.

He called for a move from symbolic recognition to “binding frameworks” with clear timelines to address the enduring economic and social consequences of slavery and colonial exploitation.

In 2015, the African Union worked with UNESCO and the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent to ensure Africa’s reparations agenda influences global discussions on returning stolen cultural items.

Xi announced that from May 1, 2026, China will fully implement zero-tariff treatment for 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic relations. He said the move would expand high-level opening-up and create new opportunities for African exports to enter the Chinese market.

In addition to tariff removal, China will promote the signing of a common economic partnership agreement for development and further expand market access for African goods. This includes upgrading so-called “green channels” to speed up customs clearance and facilitate trade.

“The world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century,” he said, noting the growing influence of the Global South and the African Union’s role in advancing continental integration and defending Africa’s interests.

The announcement comes as China and Africa mark 70 years of diplomatic relations. Over the decades, China has become one of Africa’s largest trading partners and a major source of infrastructure financing.

Xi said China is ready to work with African nations to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, strengthen people-to-people ties and build what he described as an “all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future.”

Outgoing Chairperson João Lourenço reflected on Angola’s leadership over the past year. He highlighted progress in advancing Agenda 2063, mobilising investments for infrastructure , strengthening continental integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and promoting reforms to improve AU efficiency and reduce bureaucracy.

President Ndayishimiye, 57, has served as the tenth President of Burundi since June 2020. He became involved in the National Council for the Defence of Democracy – Forces for the Defence of Democracy (CNDD-FDD) during the Burundian Civil War and rose through its ranks. After the conflict, he entered the Burundian Army and held several political offices under President Pierre Nkurunziza, who endorsed him as successor ahead of the 2020 elections, which he won with a large majority.

The summit also confirmed the AU Bureau for 2026. Ghana was named First Vice Chair, Tanzania as Second Vice Chair, and Angola as Rapporteur. A representative from North Africa is yet to be confirmed as Third Vice Chair.

He said the healing of historical wounds caused by centuries of slavery and colonial exploitation requires structural reforms and stronger cooperation among AU member states. According to him, progress cannot rely solely on symbolic gestures.

The panel, held under the theme “Reparations, Memory and Sovereignty: Common African Position on the Restitution of Heritage Resources,” focused on the return of African artefacts currently held in foreign museums. President Mahama stated that these objects were “unjustly held” and stressed that their return is central to African dignity.

His address came as the AU marked 10 years of formal demands for reparations. He noted that, despite a decade of advocacy, tangible outcomes have remained limited. He urged participants to move beyond the “moral aspiration” of seeking apologies and instead pursue concrete steps toward “civilisational repair.”

President Mahama said Ghana ’s role in the continental reparations agenda aims to connect historical justice with present-day economic sovereignty.

The meeting preceded the launch of the “Decade on Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations.” The initiative is expected to produce a formal “Common African Position” to guide negotiations with former colonial powers and international cultural institutions.

Authorities in Ouagadougou framed the decision as a step towards strengthening economic, cultural and people -to-people ties across the continent. The move aligns with Pan-African integration goals championed by the African Union, including the long-term objective of freer movement of people within Africa, even as practical and security-related restrictions remain in place.

Burkina Faso’s policy mirrors similar approaches adopted by other African states seeking to encourage regional tourism and business travel. Countries such as Rwanda, Ghana and Kenya have taken comparable steps in recent years, reducing visa barriers for African travellers in an effort to boost trade and connectivity within the continent.

The visa fee waiver also carries symbolic weight at a time when Burkina Faso is redefining its regional and diplomatic relationships. Despite ongoing security challenges and its withdrawal from ECOWAS, the government has presented the measure as a signal of continued engagement with Africa at large, prioritising continental links over traditional regional blocs.

“To this effect, the Chairperson extends congratulations to His Excellency Paul BIYA on his victory, as the re-elected President of the Republic of Cameroon,” the African Union said in a letter disseminated online. 

Mahmoud’s brief salutation to Biya was followed by an extended expression of concern over multiple reported incidents of post-electoral violence in Cameroon. 

Since October 12, reports have swirled online about violence and repression targeting Biya dissidents. Four protesters were killed in a protest in Cameroon's commercial capital, Douala, a day before the proclamation.

On the day the Constitutional Court announced the winner, candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who placed second in the polls, wrote on social media that civilians were being shot at outside his residence. 

Security around Tchiroma’s residence has since been fortified, photos from Reuters show. 

“The Chairperson is gravely concerned about the reported violence, repression and arrests of protesters and political actors in connection with the election results,” the African Union statement read. 

“The AUC Chairperson of calls on all institutional and political actors to exercise restraint and work towards the preservation of social cohesion, peace and stability in Cameroon,” it continued. 

In his first and only public statement so far since reelection, Biya condoled with those “who have unnecessarily lost their lives [as] a result of post-election violence.” 

Biya will be inaugurated on November 6 in Yaounde, the capital of Cameroon. 

What’s at stake?

On September 25, 2025, the AU, UN, Somali government, and UK co-hosted a financing event at the UN General Assembly in New York. Italy, Japan, South Korea, and Spain contributed funds, while the EU is expected to support the $20 million that the AU and £16.5 million that the UK committed.  However, authorities acknowledged that there is still a £22 million deficit.  Leaders from the AU and UN warned that without consistent, long-term support, the mission may fail.

The warning comes in an already violent year that has seen Al Shabaab intensify its offensive.  Twenty recruits were killed by a suicide bombing at the Damaanyo military base in Mogadishu, and 21 people, including elders in charge of local defence, were killed during a hotel siege in Beledweyne earlier this year as well.  A strike on U.S. forces at Kismayo airport highlighted Somalia's vulnerability, while militants overran a garrison in Ceeldheer, seizing supplies and vehicles.  These incidents demonstrate that militants can still destabilise both rural and urban areas in the absence of a significant AU presence.

The background

AUSSOM was established in January 2025 as a leaner version of ATMIS/AMISOM, but it was still charged with securing critical infrastructure, assisting the Somali Security Forces (SSF), and degrading Al-Shabaab.  It operates in five sectors, with a phased drawdown aimed at Somali self-reliance by 2029.

Donor fatigue is glaring despite September's pledges, with the UK having acknowledged a £22 million shortfall. Operational planning is undermined by the fact that many contributions are still one-time rather than consistent over several years.  UN and AU officials have cautioned that if funding sources fail, troop logistics and salaries could be jeopardised.

Regional dynamics

Ethiopia is a major troop contributor, but it is cautious of Egyptian deployments because it views them as destabilising and linked to the geopolitics of the Nile Basin amid tensions surrounding the GERD development. Additionally, Addis Ababa conducts unilateral actions outside of AU coordination. Addis has hinted it may reconsider its own commitments if Egyptian deployments expand.

Egypt is now deploying troops under AUSSOM after finalising agreements with Mogadishu. Egyptian contingents are expected to take over positions in Sector Five (Middle Shabelle), including Bal’ad, Jowhar, and Mahaday, currently held by Burundian forces. Cairo frames this as support for Somalia’s stability, but critics see it as part of its strategic contest with Ethiopia. However, Somali leaders have openly denied that they will be used as a front in a proxy conflict.

Ankara is a longtime bilateral partner that invests in infrastructure, maintains a significant base in Mogadishu, and trains Somali special forces.  Although it complicates AU coordination, its expanding role gives Mogadishu alternatives.

Recalibration of the United States: US President Donald Trump has made it clear that the United States "will not police Somalia or Kenya." Washington is shrinking its footprint, prioritising a focus on intelligence assistance and targeted strikes. Recent airstrikes such as those near Badhan and on Al-Shabaab camps, demonstrate continued engagement, but with fewer resources on the ground.

Comment

AUSSOM is indispensable yet precarious. It stabilises Somalia's fragile transition, but ongoing underfunding erodes planning and troop morale.  International acknowledgement of the mission's importance does not yet translate into sustainable resourcing, as the September financing event demonstrated.

AUSSOM’s credibility also suffers from its uneven relationship with Somalia’s federal and regional authorities. Disputes between Mogadishu and federal member states such as Jubaland and Puntland undermine coordination, leaving gaps that Al-Shabaab readily exploits. For many Somalis, the mission is caught between being a stabiliser and a symbol of dependency, struggling to empower Somali forces while remaining an indispensable promise of security.

The U.S. withdrawal increases accountability for European and African donors.  The problem for Europe is serious: terrorism, migration, and maritime insecurity could spread without strong AU operations, but there is still little desire for greater engagement.  For Somalis, AUSSOM serves as a reminder of the state's vulnerability as well as a source of comfort against Al-Shabaab.

Assessment / Outlook

With the help of recent donor commitments, AUSSOM should be able to maintain its position in the near term, but operational constraints brought on by budget deficits will continue.  Al-Shabaab will most likely keep carrying out asymmetrical attacks, such as raids in central Somalia and suicide bombings in Mogadishu, in an effort to test the resolve of the AU and Somali people.

Looking ahead, if donor fatigue persists, there is a real chance that the mission will be reduced too soon.  Somalia's security forces are unlikely to be fully responsible by 2029 due to the country's unresolved conflicts between the federal government and its regions and its sluggish institutional reform.  AU cohesion and Mogadishu's balancing act will be made more difficult by the escalating regional rivalries, which include Ethiopia's resistance, Egypt's ambitions for influence, and Turkey's growing involvement.

The stakes are high for Europe and other partners. In addition to giving Al-Shabaab more confidence, a weakened AUSSOM would raise the risks to Red Sea trade and encourage migration northward, highlighting the close connection between Somalia's stability and wider international security.

Conclusion

AUSSOM embodies both the promise and limits of African-led stabilisation. It is essential in holding back Al-Shabaab and enabling fragile Somali governance, yet its survival depends on reliable funding and regional consensus. Turkey’s rise and the Egypt–Ethiopia tug-of-war complicate AU unity, while U.S. retrenchment shifts responsibility toward Africa and Europe. For Somalia, the mission is a lifeline. For the West, it is a warning: failure to sustain AUSSOM risks reverberations across the Horn, the Red Sea, and into Europe’s own security corridors.

This report is compiled by  Eigenrac  is a Dubai-based boutique consultancy specialising in security risk management services, with a global presence and deep understanding of complex business risk environments. Eigenrac acts as a trusted enabler for clients operating in high-risk or demanding settings.

“The current global credit rating system often overlooks Africa's unique economic realities, unfairly penalising our countries during periods of global distress. This must change,” Ruto said. “I therefore support the proposal to establish an African credit rating agency, complemented by reforms in global credit rating systems to address structural inequalities,” he added.

While Ruto stressed the importance of deepening regional integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), he also called for sweeping reforms to the international financial system and urged African nations to boost trade with each other. He said the continent could no longer afford to be held back by external dependence and unfair credit ratings.

“Intra-African trade accounts for only 15 percent of total continental trade. By all credible estimates under AfCFTA, intra-African trade can surge by up to 50 percent in just ten years,” he said. “This would generate immense wealth, create millions of decent jobs, expand opportunities for MSMEs, and open new markets for African goods and services.”

Currently, intra-African trade accounts for only 16 percent of the continent’s total, compared with 70 percent in Europe and 60 percent in Asia. The disparity highlights Africa’s continued reliance on external markets for growth, Viory reports. 

Why ratings matter

Credit rating agencies such as Moody’s, Fitch and S&P Global assess amongst others, a country’s ability to repay debt. Their ratings heavily influence how much governments and businesses pay when they borrow money.

For African countries, a downgrade can mean significantly higher interest rates on loans, even when economic fundamentals remain stable. Leaders argue this creates a cycle where debt becomes harder to manage, limiting resources for investment in infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

As a result, regions closer to the poles, like Europe and North America, appear far bigger than they actually are, while equatorial continents, including Africa and South America , are dramatically shrunken.

Africa is about 30.3 million square kilometres, making it the second-largest continent on Earth.

It is three times bigger than Europe , yet many maps make it look nearly the same size.

The United States , China, India, and most of Western Europe could all fit inside Africa’s landmass at once.

Israel is in talks with South Sudan about resettling Palestinians from Gaza, part of its push for mass emigration after a 22-month offensive against Hamas. Six sources confirmed the discussions to the Associated Press, though it’s unclear how advanced they are. If enacted, the plan would move people from one war-torn, famine-threatened region to another, raising human rights concerns. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has framed the idea as “voluntary migration,” in line with former U.S. President Donald Trump’s vision, and has floated similar proposals with other African nations. Netanyahu told i24 TV that allowing civilians to leave would let Israel strike Hamas harder, though he did not mention South Sudan specifically.

AU calls for a permanent ceasefire

The African Union (AU) has urged South Sudan to uphold a permanent ceasefire and fully implement the revitalised peace agreement. Following a three-day mission to Juba, AU Peace and Security Council members met with President Salva Kiir and other leaders to discuss the accord’s progress and preparations for the December 2026 elections, which will end the transition period. The AU commended political leaders’ commitment to peace, called for inclusive dialogue, and pledged continued support to ensure stability and successful elections. The visit coincided with renewed regional efforts to reinforce South Sudan’s fragile peace deal, which has faced setbacks since independence in 2011.

3,000 Ugandans receive cholera vaccine from South Sudan

At least 3,500 Ugandans from Elegu Town Council in Amuru district have received cholera vaccines in South Sudan’s Nimule Town amid efforts to contain an outbreak that has killed five since July 2. The cross-border campaign, coordinated by Amuru health authorities and Nimule Hospital, aimed to curb transmission across the border. Officials said the initiative followed limited government support and resources in Amuru. Patrick Louis Lamot, Elegu’s Port Health focal person, said both sides agreed on joint strategies to combat public health threats, with vaccination as a key measure. He noted a recent drop in cholera cases but said it is unclear if it was directly linked to the vaccines.

Central Banks of the UAE and South Sudan sign MoU on payment

The Central Bank of the UAE and the Bank of South Sudan have signed an MoU to boost cooperation in security printing, payment systems, and capacity building. The agreement, witnessed by UAE Minister Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan Al Nahyan and South Sudan’s Vice President Benjamin Bol Mel, was signed by officials from both banks. Under the deal, the UAE will support South Sudan in banknote security printing through its subsidiary Omlat, and develop a two-phase payment card system via Al Etihad Payments. The MoU also covers knowledge exchange, technical support, and staff training through the Emirates Institute of Finance.

South Sudan denies Israel talks over forced transfer of Palestinians

South Sudan has denied reports it is in talks with Israel to resettle Palestinians from Gaza, calling the claims “baseless” and not reflective of its policy. The Associated Press had reported discussions on an Israeli proposal to transfer Palestinians to South Sudan. The foreign ministry’s statement follows international criticism that such transfers would amount to forcible expulsion and violate international law. Critics fear the plan could block Palestinians’ return to Gaza and enable Israeli annexation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has promoted “voluntary migration” for Gaza’s population, and similar proposals have reportedly been floated with other African nations. Egypt has rejected any forced transfers, while South Sudan—still recovering from civil war—already hosts large refugee populations.

According to reports from Médecins Sans Frontières, Dr Prudence Jarrett highlighted the UK Government's obligation to stop arms sales to Israel amidst the ongoing genocide in Gaza. Speaking at an event in Glasgow, she shared her experiences working in the Central African Republic and discussed the mental strains of providing medical care in war-torn regions. Urging for more humanitarian measures, she condemned the violence against healthcare workers and called for the UK to allow more Gazan children to seek medical treatment.

AU welcomes armed group dissolution in CAR

The African Union has reported the dissolution of the Union for Peace in the Central African Republic (UPC) and the 3R group, calling for other factions to also disarm. Following a peace deal earlier this year, AU Commission head Mahmoud Ali Youssouf welcomed this development, urging a commitment to national dialogue. Despite improvements in major cities, sporadic violence persists in remote regions, underscoring the complexities of peace in a nation long affected by civil strife.

CAR delays local elections

Reports from Townpress Newspaper detail the Central African Republic's postponement of local elections , moving the date from August 2025 to December amid rising political tensions. Prime Minister Félix Moloua announced the changes during a committee meeting, igniting calls for electoral reform from opposition parties. With elections last held in 1988 and persistent technical difficulties cited by the National Elections Authority, concerns grow over the electoral process's credibility as multiple significant elections are set for December.

Wagner Group's shooting incident in CAR claims 11 lives

According to reports by the Associated Press, a shooting at a gold mine controlled by the Wagner Group in the Central African Republic resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals, predominantly young locals seeking gold residue. The incident, which remains unconfirmed by authorities, has raised alarms regarding the mercenary group's record of human rights abuses. Residents have expressed outrage over the apparent disregard for life in an area heavily influenced by Wagner's military presence.

WHO's trachoma intervention plan for Nigeria and others

The World Health Organisation has announced plans for trachoma elimination interventions across 20 African nations, including Nigeria. As reported, the continent harbours 90% of the global trachoma burden, necessitating urgent actions to address this neglected tropical disease. Senegal, recently validated for eliminating trachoma, serves as a model through its effective integration of health initiatives and community involvement, emphasising the need for systematic efforts to combat health disparities in the region.

This transformation is more than cartographic—it’s a deep story of resilience, resistance, and resurgence.

At the dawn of the 19th century, Africa was largely controlled by indigenous kingdoms and empires like the Ashanti, Zulu, Sokoto Caliphate, and Buganda. However, this indigenous order was violently upended during the infamous Scramble for Africa in the late 1800s, formalised at the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885.

European powers—chiefly Britain, France, Belgium, Portugal, Germany, and Italy—divided the continent without African input, creating borders that persist today. By 1914, over 90% of Africa was under colonial rule.

The aftermath of World War II and the weakening of European empires gave birth to a wave of African nationalism. Between 1951 (Libya) and 1994 ( South Africa ’s first post-apartheid elections), nearly every African territory transitioned from colonial to self-rule.

Highlights include:

By the late 20th century, 54 recognised African states had emerged, reshaping the political map entirely.

Despite independence, most African nations inherited borders drawn by colonial powers, which often grouped together disparate ethnic groups or split single nations apart. These colonial boundaries are at the heart of many ongoing conflicts , such as:

However, in recent decades, Africa has embarked on a new form of transformation—not by redrawing borders, but by reclaiming political and economic agency.

Key developments include:

“Unity is absolutely essential. Africa has 1.4 billion people. China has 1.4 billion. India has 1.4 billion. But Africa is 55 countries, not by choice, but because that’s how the imperialists divided the continent,” Sachs told Global South World.

By contrast, Sachs explained, China and India retained their unity due to different colonial trajectories. China was never fully colonised, and India remained under a single imperial power, Britain. This, he argues, has enabled them to develop cohesive national strategies and global leverage, something Africa still struggles to achieve.

“I want Africa to speak with the voice of 1.4 billion people ,” he said. “By mid-century, Africa will have a larger population than India and China. It must have its voice heard at that scale.”

Sachs warned that Africa’s division into 55 states allows external powers, including the United States , to continue a “divide and conquer” approach that weakens Africa’s geopolitical clout. 

In recent years, Sachs has been an outspoken advocate for the African Union’s elevation to a global decision-making role. His efforts contributed to the AU becoming the 21st member of the G20 , a milestone he now urges African leaders to fully capitalise on. 

Speaking with Global South World's Ismail Akwei, Sachs pointed to Africa’s division into 55 countries—a legacy of colonialism—as a structural limitation to its global influence.

“I think that unity is absolutely essential... Africa has 1.4 billion people . China has 1.4 billion people, India has 1.4 billion people. But just by fate, Africa is 55 countries, because that's how the imperialists divided up the continent,” he said.

Sachs stressed that the recent inclusion of the African Union in the G20 marks a significant development in giving Africa a stronger voice in shaping global economic and policy discussions.

He also addressed the changing dynamics of global power, noting that the United States is beginning to adopt a more defensive position in response to the growing influence of countries like China and India .

Sachs, who also spent 20 years as a professor at Harvard University, encouraged countries in the Global South to reduce their reliance on Western-led narratives and explore multipolar alliances.

“This is the time in which a new, fair, multipolar world is being built, in which the voices in Africa, in Asia, in Latin America , in the economies of those regions are coming to the forefront. The West, it led and it was often very cruel in its so-called leadership. We're going to have a fairer world in the years ahead,” he said.

"Council expressed its grave concern and outright condemnation of the recent developments in Sudan, in particular the announcement by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and its affiliated political and social forces of the establishment of a parallel government in the Republic of Sudan, and warned that such action carries a huge risk of partitioning of the country," the statement read.

The AU emphasised that no member state or international actor should recognise or support any parallel government or entity seeking to govern any part of Sudan’s territory. The Council reaffirmed its commitment to Sudan’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity while calling for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.

"Council does not recognise the purported parallel government or entity in the Republic of Sudan," the AU declared, urging all parties involved in the conflict to respect calls for a ceasefire, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, and to commit to comprehensive peace talks.

Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in a devastating war between the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). The conflict has led to tens of thousands of deaths and the displacement of over 12 million civilians, making it the world’s largest humanitarian crisis.

Angola’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 3.8% in 2024, driven by a recovery in the oil sector, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). However, the IMF warns that budget consolidation efforts have weakened due to rising capital expenditures and slow fuel subsidies reforms. Inflation remains high, and the currency depreciated over 10% against the US dollar in 2024, Angola Noticias reports. While the debt-to-GDP ratio declined, high external debt service continues to pressure the economy. The IMF projects 3% growth in 2025 but cautions about ongoing risks. "Growth is expected to remain at 3% in 2025, while inflation is expected to decrease with the disappearance of cost factors," estimates the IMF.

Angola among Africa’s 'less free' nations  

Freedom House’s "Freedom in the World 2025" report ranks Angola among Africa’s least free nations, scoring 28 out of 100. The report cites systematic repression of political dissent, despite some anti-corruption efforts under President João Lourenço. According to the study, "Angola has been governed by the same party since independence, and the authorities have systematically repressed political dissidence. Since the election of President João Lourenço in 2017, the government has taken measures to repress endemic corruption and eased restrictions on the press and civil society, but serious challenges persist in terms of governance and human rights," Angola24horas reports. Equatorial Guinea scored lower, ranking among the continent’s worst, while Cape Verde and São Tomé and Príncipe were the most democratic Lusophone African countries.

Angolan president cancels Timor-Leste visit  

The Angolan President João Lourenço has postponed his visit to Timor-Leste due to responsibilities as the African Union (AU) chair. Lourenço’s mediation of the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, according to the presidency, remains a priority. "Unfortunately, the President of Angola has postponed the trip because Angola has assumed the presidency of the African Union, a great responsibility and a great honour," José Ramos-Horta told journalists. Ramos-Horta emphasised Timor-Leste’s understanding of the situation, noting that the president's planned visits to Australia and Indonesia are also now unlikely due to his AU commitments, Novo Journal reports.

Over 3,000 killed in road accidents in 2024  

Angola recorded 3,120 road accident deaths in 2024, up from 2,915 in 2023, despite a decline in overall accidents from 13,597 to 12,303. Injuries slightly decreased to 16,282. Luanda had the highest toll, with 2,650 accidents causing 954 deaths, Novo Journal reports. Major causes include speeding, drunk driving, poor road conditions, and mobile phone use while driving. Motorcycle riders, especially moto-taxi operators, were involved in a significant number of accidents.

Missionary's wife charged with murder  

Jackie Shroyer, wife of slain American missionary Beau Shroyer, has been formally charged with murder. Shroyer was stabbed in Huila Province in October 2023. The Criminal Investigation Service (SIC) claims Jackie orchestrated the crime with hired help. The couple arrived in Angola in 2021 for missionary work with SIM, a religious organisation. According to Angola Noticias , their children remain in the care of close family, while Jackie awaits trial, expected within six months.

Somalia offered Burundi 1,041 troops for the mission, but Burundi wanted to deploy at least 2,000. The Burundian government said the offer was “inadequate and disrespectful.”

Despite discussions, no agreement was reached, local reports confirm.

According to Burundi’s embassy in Addis, Burundi’s Permanent Representative to the African Union conveyed Burundi’s unfortunate non-participation in AUSSOM following the lack of consensus.

Burundi has been a key contributor to peacekeeping in Somalia since 2007. Its troops have played a major role in fighting Al-Shabab militants and stabilising conflict areas under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), which AUSSOM will replace.

Somalia’s Minister of Defense, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, thanked Burundi for its past contributions and expressed regret over the decision. He also requested a technical team from Burundi to plan an orderly withdrawal of troops and handover of positions to Somali forces.

Burundi’s decision also comes amid pressure from its citizens over the loss of soldiers in the fight against Al-Shabab. Reports suggest resistance to deploying troops in the Gedo region, where tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia remain high, may have influenced the decision.

Burundi’s exit marks the end of a 16-year role in Somalia’s peacekeeping efforts. The African Union and other troop-contributing countries will now have to adjust plans to ensure AUSSOM can succeed in its mission.

They came to witness and congratulate Ghana’s newly elected president, John Mahama, and his vice president, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang. The ceremony was historic as Professor Opoku-Agyemang became the first woman in Ghana to assume such a high office.

The gathering was described by many as a show of unity, similar to an African Union event, as leaders from different parts of the continent joined the celebration.

The leaders praised Ghana for its peaceful election and its role in promoting democracy in Africa.

Here’s a list of leaders from various African countries that were present at the event.

Presidents

Paul Kagame - Rwanda

Faure Gnassingbé – Togo

Patrice Talon – Benin

Adama Barrow – Gambia

Julius Maada Bio – Sierra Leone

Felix Tshisekedi – DR Congo

Bola Tinubu – Nigeria

Umaro Sissoco Embalo – Guinea Bissau

José Maria Neves – Cape Verde

Joseph Boakai – Liberia

Dr. Nangolo Mbumba – Namibia

Bassirou Diomaye Faye – Senegal

Marshal Mahamat Déby – Chad

William Ruto – Kenya

Duma Boko – Botswana

Brice Oligui Nguema – Gabon 

Military Junta Leader

Capt. Ibrahim Traoré – Burkina Faso

General Mamady Doumbouya – Guinea Conakry

General Abdourahamane Tchiani – Niger

Prime Ministers

Gen. Abdoulaye Maïga – Mali

Alix Didier Fils-Aimé – Haiti

Vice Presidents

Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue – Equatorial Guinea

Jessica Alupo – Uganda

Philip Isdor Mpango  - Tanzania

Tiemoko Meyliet Koné – Cote D’Ivoire

Mohamed Limam – Mauritania

Speaker of Parliament

Rachid Talbi Alam

Former Presidents

Goodluck Jonathan – Nigeria

Chief Olusegun Obasanjo - Nigeria

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf – Liberia

Jacob Zuma – South Africa

Togo, she noted , is adopting inclusive strategies to bolster national production while navigating trade barriers, particularly with traditional partners in Europe. 

“It is true that today the globalised world tends to create and instil more protectionism in the most economically stronger states and countries. And our African countries have the duty and the responsibility to consolidate our economies so that they can regain their place in an already very competitive market,” she remarked.

Adding, “Protectionism is always a barrier to free trade and puts fragile economies at a slight disadvantage. However, a country like Togo builds and consolidates its development by having a fairly inclusive approach that allows first to strengthen national production and internal production and then to effectively develop value chains with a vision on the external market.”

Her remarks follow the African Union's (AU) vision for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The trade agreement, endorsed by 47 AU member states, aims to create a $3 trillion free trade zone, the largest of its kind globally.

AfCFTA seeks to improve intra-African trade, reduce reliance on external markets, and build resilient economies across the continent. 

The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a US trade initiative passed in 2000 under former President Bill Clinton which provides eligible African countries duty-free access to the US market is now in limbo following the recent election of Donald Trump who previously indicated he would not renew the treaty when it expires in 2025.

According to Dossou d'Almeida, a key part of the strategy to address imbalances in global trade involves strengthening Africa’s negotiating power through regional and continental organisations. 

“It is important that African countries, through regional, sub-regional, and continental organisations, strengthen their negotiating capacity and promote change in this globalising approach to the world,” she said, calling for agreements that address the unique needs of African economies.

Dossou d'Almeida’s sentiments come amid efforts by the African Union (AU) to ramp up trading between African nations through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The Trade Act, adopted in 2018 and endorsed by 47 member states of the AU, aims to establish a $3 trillion free trade area , which would become the largest globally.

Togo has implemented significant reforms over the past two decades, including the revision of its constitution —making changes to presidential term limits and how presidents are elected.

The reform means Togo’s president will be elected through a parliamentary system and current President Faure Gnassingbe—in power since 2005, can stay on until 2033. 

However, Dossou d'Almeida explains: “All the reforms aim to build peace and consolidate the well-being and quality of life of Togolese people.”  Recent efforts have also focused on addressing unconstitutional changes in the subregion, which she noted undermine both economic growth and human capital development.

Promoting gender equality has been central to Togo’s reform agenda, with a focus on empowering women in leadership roles, she added. Highlighting that legal reforms enable women to access education, training, and leadership opportunities. “The Prime Minister of Togo is a woman, and many women hold significant roles in government and the Assembly,” she said, emphasising that these achievements stem from targeted programmes that encourage women to take active roles in politics and governance.

Dossou d'Almeida succeeded Victoire Tomegah Dogbé as Togolese Minister of Grassroots Development and Youth when Dogbé was appointed as the 13th prime minister of the West African nation in 2020—the first woman to hold the office.

In a country where over 60% of the population is under 25, youth development should be central to the government’s development agenda. According to Dossou d'Almeida, the government has established programmes like the National Youth Council and innovative volunteer initiatives which are helping young people engage in civic life and develop their potential. 

“Togolese youth have talent, and we work every day to strengthen their responsibility and citizenship,” she said. These initiatives, she noted, not only equip young people with skills but also inspire similar programmes in neighbouring countries.

On the issue of corruption, Dossou d'Almeida acknowledged that it remains a global challenge but noted Togo’s proactive approach.

“Where there are humans and resources, corruption can exist,” she said, stressing the importance of legal frameworks to tackle it effectively.

According to the 2023 Corruption Perception Index (CPI) , which ranked 180 nations and territories according to how corrupt the public sector is thought to be, with a score ranging from 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean), Togo scored 31.

90% of Sub-Saharan African nations scored less than 50, similar to most other regions in the rest of the world, according to the report.

Dossou d'Almeida reflected on Africa’s broader role in global development. She called for solutions tailored to the continent’s unique challenges, including economic disparities and resource management. 

“It is important that this diagnosis leads to solutions that are adequate and appropriate for our countries and our populations,” she concluded.

Watch the full interview here :

“This is to respond to the huge challenges that are affecting Africa in general and in particular the Sahel, which is probably the most difficult region at the moment,” she told Global South World. 

The Sahel faces mounting instability, marked by multiple coups, escalating security threats, and developmental obstacles. According to the Global Terrorism Index, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—countries currently under military regimes—are among the world’s ten most terrorism-affected nations. Vast regions in these countries remain outside government control, with the number of internally displaced persons rising steadily over the past decade.

Despite the instability, Del Re highlighted the EU’s commitment to sustainable and impactful partnerships with African nations. She described the EU as a vital ally, balancing humanitarian aid with long-term development projects. 

“We will continue in our policy based on humanitarian aid and development cooperation,” she stated, highlighting the need for stability in countries like Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso.

According to the Italian diplomat, human rights remain central to the EU’s approach, despite resistance from some African leaders who view these discussions as unwelcome. “Many countries often tell me, ‘Don’t talk about human rights,’” she revealed, describing such resistance as "racist" and counterproductive.

Del Re also weighed in on global geopolitical developments, including US foreign policy toward Africa. She downplayed the likelihood of significant changes in US-Africa relations regardless of electoral outcomes. 

“I would say that most probably the foreign policy will not change drastically regarding certain general directions that the US has always taken,” she stated.

Many have contemplated the implications of a Donald Trump presidency on US-Africa relations . Analysts have forecast that Trump’s "America First" policy will take precedence, potentially limiting cooperation with African countries. However, Del Re noted that US policies promoting national interest resonate with current trends in many African nations.

Del Re also spoke of the inclusion of the African Union (AU) in the G20, facilitated by India’s presidency. “This is a huge change,” she said, pointing to the additional representation of 54 countries. 

Previously classified as an "invited international organisation," the AU gained full member status during the G20 summit in Delhi, India, in September 2023. This move places the AU on par with the EU, alongside major global powers like the US, Russia, and the UK.

She hopes this expanded participation will steer discussions toward more inclusive solutions on pressing issues like economic development and multilateral collaboration. “We cannot live on our own,” she remarked, emphasising the importance of interdependence in addressing global challenges.

Watch the full interview here:

According to Belhocine, who is an Algerian biomedical scientist, studies conducted by UNESCO indicate that this significant amount is necessary if Africa is to provide universal access to quality education within the next six years. "If we were to reach SDG 4 targets by 2030, Africa would need $90 billion," he said.

Belhocine also called on African countries to push for additional funding to bridge the education gap. “I think that we need to really bring our heads together to advocate for this,” he is quoted by local media outlet Graphic Online .

The Commissioner first raised concerns about Africa’s education shortfall during the 45th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council Meeting of the African Union in Accra, earlier this year . At the meeting, he emphasised the continent’s pressing need for more teachers, noting that Africa would need to train 15 million teaching professionals to fill the gap.

Around 500 million children are of school-going age in Africa, but 100 million of them are out of school. Belhocine also pointed out that African nations spend between $60 and $900 annually per child’s education, compared to the $8,000 spent by advanced economies.

President William Ruto has reaffirmed Kenya's commitment to strengthen its relationship with Somalia following the visit of counterpart Somalia President Hassan Mohamud’s visit to Nairobi. According to Ruto, the two countries are working together to ensure greater peace and stability in the East African region. “Our collaboration with the government of the Republic of Somalia is bearing fruit. The region is witnessing greater peace and stability. We commit to grow this relationship,” President Ruto said. Their discussions also focused on joint initiatives to combat terrorism and insecurity, Kenyan media The Star reports.

UN to increase cholera efforts

The UN is increasing efforts to address a cholera outbreak in Somalia, with 120 deaths reported since January.  Over 10,000 new cases have been reported in seven states, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) disclosed on May 19. The situation is expected to worsen due to heavy rains, according to OCHA. The outbreak is attributed to a lack of access to safe water and sanitation, Xinhua reported.

Training on emergency battlefield care

Somali Security Forces and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) completed emergency battlefield care training facilitated by UNSOS and the Kenya Red Cross Training Institute. The three-day training aims to enhance medical personnel's capacity to provide pre-hospital medical support during joint military operations and benefit local communities, according to ATMIS . “This training is important in reducing the risk of losing our brave soldiers due to improper management of injuries sustained on the frontline,” said the Head of ATMIS, Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef.

AU mission discharges 439 IEDS since 2017

The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has discharged 439 IEDs since 2017 , preventing an estimated 1,756 potential casualties, according to the Chief of United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) Justin Smith. He disclosed this at a recent training aimed to enhance the operational efficiency of the Somali Security Forces in dealing with IED risks. The UN-backed program covered various aspects of IED detection, disposal, and post-blast investigation techniques. “In 2023 alone, ATMIS Search and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams found and cleared 74% of devices assessed as targeting ATMIS troops, preventing a potential 150 ATMIS casualties,” said Smith.

Somali filmmaker to premiere debut film at Cannes Film Festival

Somali filmmaker Mo Harawe is set to premiere his debut film "The Village Next to Paradise" at Cannes, the first feature from Somalia to screen at the festival on May 21. The film focuses on a single father and his family in a Somali fishing village, navigating life amid civil war and the threat of drone strikes.

The AU in a statement released on February 18 said “We would like to light a candle and put it on top of Mount Kilimanjaro which would shine beyond our borders giving hope where there was despair, love where there was hate and dignity where before there was only humiliation.”

“Situated on the grounds of the building complex named in honour of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere hosting the African Union Political Affairs, Peace and Security Department, the statue pays tribute to his pivotal role in Pan-Africanism and peacebuilding,” they added.

Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan was present at the unveiling ceremony with other African leaders such as the President of Mauritania and AU Chairperson, Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation and President of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema among other leaders across the region.

Julius Nyerere, a Pan-Africanist was instrumental in founding the Organization of African Unity, which subsequently evolved into the African Union.

In 1961, he became Tanganyika's first prime minister, and in 1964, became the new state of Tanzania's first president.

His statue now joins that of Ghana’s first president Kwame Nkrumah which was unveiled in 2012, followed by the statue of Emperor Haile Selassie in 2019.

Emphasizing the importance of unity and resolution, Tinubu stated that Africa's success in overcoming challenges relies on solid foundations of solidarity. He highlighted external challenges like climate change and unfair global trade patterns but also acknowledged internal obstacles such as coup-driven autocracies and manipulations of constitutional tenure provisions that Africans impose on themselves.

“As a continent and as individual nations, we face strong headwinds and difficult hurdles threatening to complicate our mission to bring qualitative democratic governance and economic development to our people. Many of these obstacles, such as climate change and unfair patterns of global trade, are largely not of our making. However, some of the pitfalls, including coup-birthed autocracies and the deleterious tinkering with constitutional tenure provisions, are developmental cancers we as Africans are giving to ourselves,” said Tinubu.

Addressing recent military takeovers in Guinea, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, as well as the departure of three nations from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), President Tinubu urged that disagreements over unconstitutional changes of government should not lead to permanent ruptures in regional ties.

He emphasized that the pursuit of a peaceful, strong, and united West Africa transcends individual interests.

The 37th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government focuses on the AU's 2024 theme, "Educate an African fit for the 21st Century," aiming to build resilient education systems for increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning across Africa. The event is hosted at the AU headquarters.

Rwanda mRNA vaccine facility

In December 2023, Rwanda and German biotech company BioNTech inaugurated Africa's first manufacturing facility for mRNA-based vaccines.

The Rwandan facility is equipped to manufacture at an annual capacity of 50 million doses targeted to the needs of the African Union member states.BioNTech plans to establish additional factories in Senegal and South Africa while the facility in Rwanda will become a node in a decentralised and robust African end-to-end manufacturing network.

Gavi

In December 2023, Gavi, an international organization that improves access to vaccines, introduced a fund named “ the First Response Fund ” of US$22 million to support pandemic prevention, preparedness and response activities.

In December 2023, The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) said it had welcomed Gavi's establishment of the African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator (AVMA) AVMA will function as a financing mechanism of up to US$ 1 billion for vaccine manufacturing in Africa.

World Health Organization

During the State of the Nation Address of South African President Museveni, he announced that the World Health Organization (WHO) has selected six African countries, including South Africa, to receive the necessary technology for large-scale production of mRNA vaccines.

African Union

In 2021, the African Union Heads of States and Governments launched The Partnerships for African Vaccine Manufacturing (PAVM) to enable Africa to develop, produce, and supply more than 60 per cent of the total vaccine doses needed on the continent by 2040. PAVM has seen various vaccine manufacturing projects underway already.

European Investment Bank (EIB) and African Development Bank

The European Investment Bank (EIB) has committed US$1 billion for vaccines, medicines, and health technology in Africa. In a parallel move, the African Development Bank (AfDB) has established a US$3 billion facility to support healthcare in Africa, with a focus on vaccine production.

International Finance Cooperation

On July 9, 2021, the International Finance Cooperation and four other institutions announced $14 million in grant funding to Institut Pasteur de Dakar in Senegal (IPD) along with project development support, in support of vaccine production. The project is also co-financed by the Government of Japan.

Institut Pasteur de Dakar and Mastercard Foundation

On June 1, 2023, the Institut Pasteur de Dakar (IPD) and the Mastercard Foundation announced a $45 million partnership named MADIBA (Manufacturing in Africa for Disease Immunization and Building Autonomy) to enable Africa to achieve vaccine manufacturing autonomy. MADIBA seeks to establish a globally competitive workforce by training skilled young individuals to contribute to vaccine production and distribution.

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has committed a $40 million investment to support various African manufacturers in producing mRNA vaccines locally. Senegal’s Institut Pasteur de Dakar and South Africa's Biovac will each receive US$5 million to acquire the needed technology to develop locally relevant vaccines. The remaining $30 million will support other African manufacturers in vaccine manufacturing and production.

But, with many new projects underway, there's a concern that if efforts aren't coordinated, there could be duplicate investments in some areas and not enough in others, putting long-term impact at risk.

The AL mission monitoring the 2024 presidential elections led by Ambassador Khalil Ibrahim Al-Zuwadi announced the preliminary assessment of the process at a press briefing at the AL headquarters in Cairo, local media Ahram Online reported.

Al-Zuwadi stated that the voting occurred in accordance with the established legal framework governing the electoral process. He said the framework facilitated voters in freely exercising their electoral rights, local media Ahram Online has reported.

He affirmed that the legal framework overseeing the elections aligns, for the most part, with the international electoral standards outlined in the treaties endorsed by Egypt. This framework encompasses Egypt's constitution, electoral process-related laws, and decisions issued by the National Election Authority (NEA).

Al-Zuwadi congratulated Egypt's leadership, government, and people on the success of the 2024 presidential elections. He emphasized that the National Electoral Authority (NEA) in Egypt has become a center of expertise for Arab countries that can be utilized in conducting elections and democratic processes.

The Election Observation Mission (EOM), jointly established by the African Union Commission (AUC) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), praised Egypt for its dedication to conducting the 2024 presidential elections in the face of challenging economic and security conditions . The EOM acknowledged the professional execution of the mandate by Egypt's National Elections Authority (NEA), as outlined in COMESA's initial statement on the 2024 presidential elections in Egypt. Despite internal economic challenges and regional security and humanitarian issues related to ongoing military operations in neighboring Gaza, Egypt successfully organized the elections in a generally peaceful setting. The statement emphasized that these elections contribute to establishing a robust foundation for peace and stability in the country.

The head of the joint mission of the African Union and COMESA, Speciosa Wandira Kazibwe, expressed satisfaction with Egypt’s presidential elections, in a statement. “The NEA generally executed its mandate professionally. Polling officials, supervised by judicial officers, demonstrated a strong understanding of voting procedures and received positive competence assessments from observers.  Overall, the December 10 – 12 election provides a solid foundation in consolidating peace and stability in Egypt. The commitment of the Egyptian government to hold an election amid a challenging economic and security environment is commendable. As the nation awaits the announcement of results by the NEA, the Mission urges all stakeholders to continue upholding peace throughout the remainder of the process. The Mission further encourages any aggrieved party to utilize legally established channels for redress,” the AU reports.

Thus far, Ahram Online reports that preliminary results of elections vote count indicate that incumbent President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi leads with about 90 percent of the votes.

“What Africa needs above all is justice in international relations because Africa has been the victim of the structural injustices of our international relations,” said Guterres.

Faki, on the other hand, emphasised peace and security while he acknowledged the challenging period for Africa, characterising it as a "haven for terrorism and extremism," impacting various regions and coinciding with the downsizing of some AU peacekeeping operations.

“We also need to ensure that we are on the right track for development. And this will perhaps help us to mitigate the issue of migration which has become a particularly delicate issue for our neighbours in Europe ,” he added.

Beyond security concerns, Africa faces economic challenges exacerbated by the triple crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and repercussions of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, particularly affecting food supply , the report added.

Critical to addressing these challenges, both leaders stressed the importance of financing for development and peace, alongside comprehensive reform of global financial institutions.

Faki announced that both leaders will participate in the COP28 climate conference opening this week in Dubai. He emphasised the conference as a crucial opportunity to advocate for Africa, a continent significantly affected by climate change despite contributing minimally to pollution.

What they said

The AU and Ecowas election observer mission in a joint post-election press statement expressed “admiration for the voters’ discipline, patience and peaceful conduct, in spite of the long queues observed in most precincts. They particularly commend the women and the youth for the show of patriotism and commitment to democracy by turning out in large numbers to vote.” The EU chief observer, Andreas Schieder said, “The Liberian voters demonstrated commitment to the democratic process by participating in great numbers in the General Elections on Tuesday. The technical preparations and running of the election day were well administered. While the campaign was largely peaceful and vibrant, and the press free to cover all sides of the campaign…” Former president of Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan said, “I think it’s going on well and I am happy with the peaceful environment. Of all the polling stations I have visited, [it] has been quite peaceful.” The former U.S. Ambassador to Liberia, Linda Thomas-Greenfield has also added, “At each step of this election, Liberians from all walks of life have expressed their desire for Liberia to become a beacon of peaceful citizen-centred democratic governance in the region.”