The 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Heads of State and Government of the African Union began in the capital, Addis Ababa, today.
The assembly saw the attendance of dozens of African leaders, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, and representatives of multinational organizations. The leaders’ summit followed the conclusion of the 48th Executive Council meeting.
This year’s theme for the assembly is focused on the protection of water resources and environmentally friendly sanitation systems to achieve Agenda 2063.
AU chairperson along AUC Mahmoud Ali Youssouf other leaders delivered opeing remarks focus on the theme of the year.
Leaders, including Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, highlighted the importance of sharing water resources and sanitation systems for mutual development.
Prime Minister Abiy said that water serves as a foundation for development, innovation, and stability, if managed properly.
“Here in Ethiopia, we have learned that responsible water management is central to guiding development wisely,” he said, noting the recently completed Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam’s impact on the Ethiopian economy. He also stated that by exporting electricity to neighboring countries, Ethiopia has contributed to shared prosperity.
“Across Africa, rivers can be engines of development and stability when governed for shared benefit,” he added.
In addition to summit’s theme, the AU also deliberated on peace and security challenges across the continent, including the situations in Sudan and Somalia.
