38th African Union Summit: Africa at a Crossroads

By Ephraim Agbo, WorldviewDigested
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – February 15, 2025

The 38th African Union (AU) Summit is officially underway in Addis Ababa, bringing together African leaders for two days of high-stakes discussions. From leadership changes to security crises and Africa’s place on the global stage, this year’s summit isn’t just another diplomatic gathering—it’s a defining moment.

Who’s Taking the Lead?

With Moussa Faki Mahamat’s term coming to an end, all eyes are on the AU Commission Chairperson election. It’s down to Raila Odinga (Kenya) and Mahamoud Ali Youssouf (Djibouti). The winner needs 33 out of 49 votes, or the Deputy Chairperson takes over temporarily. Expect some political maneuvering behind the scenes.

Security: A Continent on Edge

Conflict is never far from the conversation, and this year is no exception:

• Rwanda-DRC Tensions: The M23 rebel crisis has reignited regional friction.
• Sudan’s Civil War: Mediation efforts are struggling to get both sides to the table.
• Sahel Insurgencies: Military takeovers and jihadist attacks keep the region unstable.
• Ethiopia’s Unfinished Business: Post-Tigray reconciliation is still a work in progress.

Beyond Politics: Africa’s Growth Plan

The summit isn’t just about putting out fires—it’s also about shaping the future:

• Health & Climate: Better healthcare and clean energy are top priorities.
• Youth & Digital Innovation: The continent’s young population is a powerhouse waiting to be unleashed.
• Global Recognition: The AU is making another push for a permanent seat at the UN Security Council.

Fixing the AU Itself

If the AU wants to be more effective, it needs change from within:

• Financial Independence: Time to stop relying on external donors.
• Leadership & Gender Balance: Who gets a seat at the table matters.

Where Africa Stands on Global Issues

• Palestine: The AU reaffirms support for statehood.
• Haiti: Discussions on how Africa can assist the crisis-hit nation.

What’s Next?

By the time the 38th AU Summit wraps up on February 16, decisions made here will set the tone for Africa’s next chapter. Will we see bold action, or just more talk? That’s what the continent is waiting to find out.

Stay tuned with WorldviewDigested.