The African Union is aggressively pursuing financial self-reliance, bolstering its security architecture, and strategically embracing technology like Artificial Intelligence to build a more resilient and prosperous continent, declared African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf today. Speaking at a media engagement on May 12, 2025, the Chairperson outlined significant progress and setting a forward-looking vision for a resilient, prosperous, and united continent, emphasizing African ownership in navigating a dynamic global landscape.
A cornerstone of the AU's strategy is ensuring peace and security, recognized as fundamental to development. Youssouf highlighted enhanced conflict prevention, mediation, and post-conflict reconstruction efforts, driven by the Peace and Security Council in coordination with regional bodies. He pointed to the operationalization of the African Standby Force and strengthened early warning systems as crucial for rapid response to emerging threats, including terrorism and unconstitutional changes of government.
A significant pivot towards financial sovereignty is underway to reduce dependency on external actors. Bold new initiatives include the planned AU-backed African Diaspora Bonds, aimed at channeling a portion of the over $95 billion in annual remittances towards infrastructure and social programs. A continental tax on e-commerce and digital services is also envisioned, leveraging Africa's fast-growing digital economy. The AU is further exploring Public-Private Partnerships and reviewing the feasibility of an AU Sovereign Wealth Fund to underpin long-term financial stability. These mechanisms, the Chairperson underscored, will be developed in collaboration with global partners but with a clear focus on African leadership.
Africa's recent inclusion as a permanent member of the G20 was hailed as a pivotal moment, positioning the continent at the heart of global economic discussions. The Chairperson stated that this membership is being utilized strategically to advocate for reforms in the international financial architecture, mobilize investment for infrastructure and industrialization, and champion African priorities in global trade, health, and digital inclusion.
The enduring principle of "African solutions to African problems" continues to guide the AU's approach, emphasizing the use of indigenous knowledge, intra-African solidarity, and locally-led interventions in peacebuilding, mediation, and innovation.
Entering a crucial phase, the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan (2024-2033) of Agenda 2063 is now in a critical acceleration phase. Key priorities include significantly boosting infrastructure development, with a focus on energy, transport corridors, and digital connectivity. The plan also emphasizes industrialization to move beyond raw material exports and substantial investment in human capital through enhanced education, health, and innovation to harness Africa's demographic dividend.
Internal institutional reforms are being fast-tracked to enhance the AU's efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness, ensuring its structures effectively support Agenda 2063 and maintain the trust of its citizens.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) remains a flagship project for economic integration. Efforts in 2025 are concentrated on accelerating its implementation by removing non-tariff barriers, finalizing rules of origin, and improving logistics and payment systems. The AfCFTA is projected to significantly increase intra-African trade and lift millions out of poverty.
Stronger relations and harmonized efforts with Regional Economic Communities (RECs) are also a key focus, ensuring coordinated and impactful initiatives across all sub-regions.
Recognizing that over 60% of the population is under 25, investing in Africa's youth is a top priority. Initiatives include the implementation of the AU Start-up Model Law adopted in May 2024, programs supporting youth in agri-food systems, and expanding access to digital skills, entrepreneurship, and leadership opportunities.
In the face of global economic headwinds, Africa is focused on economic diversification, strengthening regional value chains, and boosting domestic resource mobilization to build a self-sustaining and competitive economy.
Looking to the future, the AU is strategically engaging with Artificial Intelligence (AI), developing a Continental AI Strategy to leverage the technology for development while addressing critical infrastructure gaps like electricity and connectivity. The strategy prioritizes inclusivity, African-driven data and languages, and ethical considerations, supporting local research and innovation.
The upcoming Third EU-AU Foreign Affairs Ministerial Meeting on May 21, 2025, will be a key platform to deepen cooperation on peace, security, governance, and migration, seeking mutually beneficial approaches including legal pathways for mobility. The meeting will also reaffirm a commitment to multilateralism and joint action on global challenges, including advocating for reforms in global financial institutions and collaborating on climate action and digital governance frameworks.
The Chairperson also highlighted efforts to strengthen ties with Arab nations, BRICS, and other global partners to attract investment and facilitate joint development projects, further enhancing Africa's global standing.
Concluding his remarks, Chairperson Youssouf called for continued unity and bold action, reiterating the AU's commitment to integration and resilience. He painted a vision of a unified Africa leading with confidence on the global stage, stating, "Africa First. Africa Forward. Africa United."