New AU Chairman Joo Louren§o Pledges to Advance Africa’s Peace and Prosperity
Addis Ababa: The president of Angola and the new African Union Chairman, Joo Manuel Gon§alves Louren§o, said he is committed to promoting peace and stability across Africa by focusing on Agenda 2063. President of Angola, Joo Manuel Gon§alves Louren§o, took over the rotating African Union (AU) chairmanship at the opening of the 38th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly of the Heads of State and Government today.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Louren§o replaced the outgoing Chairman, President of Mauritania Mohamed Ould Cheikh Ghazouani. During the occasion, President Louren§o said the people of Africa have shown resilience and strength, working hard to overcome difficulties and improve their communities over the past years.
Reminding that humanitarian crisis in countries with civil wars has greatly impacted the population, with millions needing urgent help, Louren§o said that violence and displacement from these conflicts have led to serious food shortages, lack of clean water, poor health care, and shortages of shelter. The lack of essential infrastructure and disruption of basic services make the situation worse. Humanitarian efforts face obstacles like security risks, logistical issues, and lack of funding; and still dedicated individuals and organizations are striving to support those in need, the chairman elaborated.
He mentioned that Africa has been facing many natural and man-made disasters, including droughts and floods, that have caused diseases like cholera to spread. According to him, African leaders must focus on the goals of Agenda 2063 to build a more peaceful and prosperous continent following the Agenda 2063 development framework, which promotes infrastructure growth, economic development, social inclusion, and gender equality. Leaders can help unify and sustainably advance Africa by aligning actions with Agenda 2063 and positively change citizens’ lives and enhance progress.
The chairman said he would work tirelessly to achieve peace and reduce the use of firearms across Africa. He also reiterated Angola’s commitment to seeking forgiveness and compensation for wrongs suffered by African people, pursuing justice and restitution for historical injustices.
Stressing the importance of job creation for African youth as a way to counter illegal migration and conflicts, Louren§o said that the continent can address issues that push young people to leave their homes for better opportunities abroad. This approach can lead to stable incomes and growth while improving overall societal stability and economic development, he noted.
Moreover, Africa needs to protect its maritime resources and promote sustainable practices, the chairman stated, stressing that it is crucial that the more than 30 African coastal countries combat illegal fishing, maritime pollution, and the effects of climate change through continued cooperation and joint efforts. He further underscored the need for improved infrastructure to support growth in Africa, which includes more ports, airports, railways, roads, and power lines to enhance connectivity and efficiency across the continent.
Louren§o also pointed out that Africa must have at least two seats in the United Nations Security Council with full voting rights to represent its interests globally. Stating the importance of cooperation among African leaders, he finally urged trust and respect among them as vital for achieving the continent’s goals and aspirations.