Africa’s Rise In A Fractured World: AU Calls For Unity, Self-reliance

The African Union has issued a clarion call for the continent to take control of its destiny amid mounting global uncertainties.

Speaking on behalf of the AU Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the Deputy Chairperson Selma Malika Haddadi, laid out a seven point roadmap for Africa’s rise, emphasizing the urgent need for integration, homegrown financing, and resilient leadership.

Opening the session, the AU envoy lauded Afreximbank for its continued role in Africa’s development, particularly its resilience and bold financial leadership in uncertain times.

The meeting’s theme, “Can Africa Rise in a Fractured World?” was described not merely as a question, but as a direct challenge to the continent’s political, economic, and social resolve.

Haddadi painted a stark picture of the global environment, citing fragmented trade, growing climate catastrophes, food insecurity, and widespread institutional distrust.

Despite these challenges, the speaker maintained that Africa, home to the youngest population and vast natural and human resources, stands as a paradox of vulnerability and boundless promise.

She offered a solution of greater integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area, AfCFTA, which now links 55 countries into a single market.

The AU had declared this initiative as the economic foundation for Africa’s emergence as a global powerhouse by the end of the century, citing early successes in pilot trade shipments, improved customs procedures, and rising intra-African trade that has already surpassed $200 million.

On the financing front, the AU Deputy Chairperson denounced external conditions historically imposed by international lenders and highlighted institutions like Afreximbank as proof that Africa can craft sovereign, counter-cyclical, and innovative financial mechanisms.

The Commission also pointed to the urgent need to halt the $89 billion lost annually to illicit financial flows, calling for stronger governance, regional cooperation, and mobilization of untapped local capital, including Africa’s sizable pension funds.

Haddadi also underscored the importance of youth and the African diaspora.

With remittances exceeding $100 billion annually, the AU called for structured investments via diaspora bonds and funds.

Meanwhile, it emphasized investment in digital education, vocational training, and job creation for Africa’s rapidly growing young population, referring to initiatives like the AU Youth Volunteer Corps and continent wide employment programs.

Addressing climate change, the AU decried the continent’s position as a victim of a crisis it contributed little to.

The Commission therfore demanded climate justice and fulfillment of pledged international support worth $300 billion by 2035 to fund sustainable energy and infrastructure.

It also warned against punitive measures like carbon tariffs that could undermine African industries.

Africa’s diplomatic progress, including the AU’s permanent seat at the G20, was celebrated, but the Commission urged that this symbolic victory be translated into tangible influence. “With 1.4 billion people and growing economic power, Africa must speak with one voice at global platforms on trade, climate, and financial reform”.

Reiterating the need for accountable leadership, the AU stressed that Africa’s rise depends on inclusive governance, transparency, and cooperation.

“Our rise is not guaranteed, we must rise by design, determination, and collective action”.

Concluding with a powerful call to action, Haddadi called on Africans at home and abroad to unite, invest in local enterprise and infrastructure, and actively shape the future.

“Africa will not just rise,” the speaker declared. “Africa will soar.”

Umbwanko Baba, Edited By Grace Namiji