African Union chairperson calls for renewed unity, solidarity on AU Day

Africa

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (NPA) — As the African Union marks African Union Day on September 9, 2026, Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has extended greetings to the peoples of Africa and the African Diaspora, calling for renewed commitment to the ideals of Pan-Africanism, unity and solidarity.

The AUC Chairperson said the annual commemoration provides an opportunity for Africans to reflect on the continent’s progress, challenges and collective aspirations, while renewing the commitment to building a more integrated, peaceful and prosperous Africa.

September 9 commemorates the historic Sirte Declaration of 1999, when African leaders took the decisive step towards creating the African Union as an instrument for accelerating continental integration and strengthening Africa’s voice in the world.

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This year’s African Union Day comes at a particularly significant moment for the continent. Just days ago, the United Nations General Assembly endorsed an African-led initiative supporting the use of a world map that more accurately reflects the true size of Africa.

The initiative, championed by the Republic of Togo with the support of the African Union, represents more than a cartographic adjustment, according to the AUC. It is also a reminder that how Africa is seen matters, and that the continent must increasingly shape the narratives through which it is seen.

“A map may change how the world sees Africa, but Africa’s destiny will ultimately be shaped by how Africans see themselves. The time has come to see Africa in its true size, its true strength and its true potential,” Youssouf said.

The AUC Chairperson noted that the momentum behind correcting the map forms part of a broader continental journey towards greater African agency, from strengthening continental economic integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), to advancing peace and security, sustainable development and Africa’s representation in global decision-making.

He said the AU’s Agenda 2063 remains the continent’s overarching blueprint for building an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa.

Youssouf further recalled that the African Union’s priorities are increasingly centred on strengthening peace and security, accelerating economic integration and reinforcing Africa’s global voice.

“Africa is not seeking a larger place in the world; Africa is reclaiming its rightful place in the world. Our task is to translate this renewed confidence into unity, prosperity, peace and influence,” he added.

The AUC Chairperson also underscored that Africa’s progress must be measured not only by how the continent is represented externally, but also by the quality of life of its people.

In this regard, he said, the African Union’s 2026 focus on sustainable water availability and safe sanitation reflects the Union’s determination to connect continental aspirations with the everyday realities of African citizens.

On African Union Day, Youssouf called upon Member States, Regional Economic Communities, African institutions, the private sector, civil society, women and young people to continue building an Africa that is increasingly integrated, self-confident and capable of shaping its own destiny.

H.E. Youssouf reaffirmed the commitment of the African Union Commission to advancing the vision of “The Africa We Want” and ensuring that the spirit of the Sirte Declaration continues to inspire the continent’s next generation.

“The Africa of tomorrow must not only be better represented on the map; it must be stronger in the world, more united at home and more prosperous for its people,” he said.

The AUC Chairperson wished all citizens of Africa and the African Diaspora a peaceful and inspiring African Union Day.