African Union summit opens in Addis Ababa with water security as flagship theme

Heads of state and government from across the African continent gathered at African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa Saturday for the two-day 39rd Ordinary Session of the Assembly, formally launching the AU's 2026 theme: "Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063." The summit prioritizes water governance and climate adaptation as foundational elements for achieving the continent's long-term development blueprint.

International Participation and Global Engagement

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Mustafa are among international leaders attending the summit, reflecting heightened global engagement with African development priorities. Their presence underscores recognition that water security, climate resilience, and institutional capacity in Africa carry implications far beyond the continent. Discussions extend to strengthening Africa's representation in global governance institutions, a longstanding demand gaining momentum amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.

Comprehensive Agenda Beyond Water

Beyond the flagship water and sanitation theme, leaders are reviewing peace and security situations across conflict-affected regions, assessing progress toward Agenda 2063 benchmarks, and considering institutional reforms aimed at enhancing the AU's effectiveness and financial sustainability. The gathering provides opportunity for both formal deliberations and informal diplomatic engagement on pressing continental challenges, from Sahel security to Horn of Africa stability, as the organization seeks to position itself as an increasingly effective actor in African and global affairs.