The African Union (AU) has called for stronger continental unity, accelerated integration, and urgent global governance reform as Africa marked Africa Day 2026.
The call was made in a joint message by the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, and H.E. Évariste Ndayishimiye, President of Burundi and Chairperson of the African Union.
Africa Day 2026 is being observed under the theme: “Sixty-three (63) Years of Unity, Integration and Development, Let’s Celebrate Together,” marking 63 years since the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), the precursor to the African Union.
In his remarks, AU Commission Chairperson Youssouf said Africa’s growing influence in global affairs must be matched with a fairer international system, including urgent reforms of the United Nations Security Council.
He stressed that Africa’s current role in global platforms, including its permanent seat in the G20, reflects the continent’s rising importance but said structural injustices in global governance must be addressed.
Youssouf also welcomed international momentum on reparatory justice, commending Ghana’s leadership at the United Nations in advancing discussions on the legacy of slavery and colonialism.
President Ndayishimiye, in his address, called for stronger attention to the realities facing millions of Africans affected by conflict, terrorism, climate shocks, and displacement.
He warned that Africa’s development efforts cannot succeed without prioritising education, especially for children in refugee and internally displaced persons (IDP) communities.
“An African child deprived of education today is a part of Africa’s future that we are abandoning tomorrow,” he said, urging governments to place education at the centre of humanitarian response.
The Burundian leader also called for deeper solidarity against terrorism, stressing that no African country should be left alone to confront security threats.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a key driver of economic growth, youth employment, and industrialisation across the continent.
They also highlighted the African Union’s 2026 theme of the year: “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063,” describing water security and climate resilience as critical to Africa’s future.
In a moment of celebration, Youssouf noted that nine African countries had qualified for the FIFA World Cup, describing it as a symbol of the continent’s growing talent and youthful potential.
The AU leaders expressed appreciation to member states, partners, diplomats, and citizens for their continued support to the continental agenda.
They concluded by reaffirming their commitment to Pan-Africanism, unity, and inclusive development across Africa.
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