By Gelila Adamu
Addis Ababa, (AMECO) – African Union Commission Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf has called on member states to forge a united front against mounting economic fallout, expanding terrorism, and health crises across the continent.
Speaking at the opening of the 49th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council in Addis Ababa, Youssouf warned that external geopolitical shocks and regional security threats are placing unprecedented strain on African economies.
He highlighted the severe economic toll of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, which have disrupted global supply chains and triggered sharp price increases in essential commodities, including fuel, food, and fertiliser. Simultaneously, Youssouf pointed to the growing threat of terrorism in the Sahel, urging member states to strengthen collective defence mechanisms and regional intelligence cooperation.
Addressing public health emergencies, Youssouf expressed solidarity with the Democratic Republic of the Congo amid its ongoing Ebola outbreak, praising the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) for spearheading the continent’s coordinated response.
To reduce reliance on foreign aid, the AU Chairperson pressed member states to reinforce the Union’s financial self-reliance, calling sustainable internal funding vital to achieving the goals of Agenda 2063. He also urged governments to expedite the ratification of pending AU legal treaties and to support African candidates seeking leadership roles in global international bodies.
