African Union’s 45th Ordinary Session Meetings Open in Accra, Ghana

Delegates from across the African continent have gathered in Accra for the 45th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Executive Council and the 6th mid-year coordination meetings of the AU regional economic communities. These significant events are being held at the Accra International Conference Center from July 18 to July 21, 2024, under the theme “Educate an African fit for the 21st century: Building resilient education systems for increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning in Africa.”

In his opening address, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, highlighted the strides made in peace and security, particularly with the operationalization of the African Union Peace Fund. He emphasised the importance of reducing the continent’s dependence on international partners for peace support operations, suggesting that these advances could herald a new era of self-reliance in peacekeeping.

Also Read: Agenda 2063: Africa’s Blueprint for a Prosperous Future

The AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting will assess the progress of the Continental Integration Agenda and evaluate the efficiency of policy harmonisation between the African Union and regional economic communities. Additionally, the meeting will reflect on the AU’s role in the upcoming G20 leaders’ summit, scheduled for November in Brazil.

Delegates will discuss and adopt the 55-member bloc’s budget for 2025, alongside addressing other pressing issues affecting the continent.

Moussa Faki Mahamat lauded the significant sectoral progress and stressed the need for sustainable financing mechanisms for African peacekeeping missions. He underscored the potential of these developments to significantly reduce Africa’s reliance on international financial support.

Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug, chairperson of the executive council, acknowledged the challenges posed by global crises but expressed confidence in the continent’s resilience and ability to achieve the ambitious goals of Agenda 2063. He called for renewed efforts and cooperation to overcome these challenges.

Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, reiterated Ghana’s commitment to advancing Agenda 2063. She emphasized the importance of strengthening African financial institutions and harnessing the continent’s potential, particularly through education.

Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Africa, highlighted the need to transform education systems into catalysts for industrial policy, prioritizing science, technology, and innovation. He warned against the middle-income trap and advocated for increased investment in research and development.

As high-level discussions continue over the next few days, African leaders are expected to work collaboratively to shape a sustainable and prosperous future for the continent.