The African Union summit in Addis Ababa is set to be overshadowed by escalating conflicts in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Leaders are gathering this weekend to address these pressing issues, which have led to mass displacement and humanitarian crises.
In Sudan, the civil war between the military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has caused the world’s worst humanitarian disaster, with 12 million people displaced. The AU warns that if the war continues, neighboring countries like South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Chad will face even greater refugee influxes. The AU Commissioner for Peace and Security, Bankole Adeoye, has urged urgent action, stating that a war in Sudan affects the entire Horn of Africa.
Meanwhile, the crisis in DRC is intensifying. The M23 rebels captured Goma in late January, worsening the already fragile situation. Over 7 million Congolese have fled their homes, with North Kivu seeing the highest displacement. More than 2,700 people have died in recent violence, and experts warn the numbers could be much higher. The East African Community and Southern African Development Community have already held joint discussions on the crisis, underscoring its severity.
Beyond conflict, leaders will also focus on Africa’s future. This year’s summit theme, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” seeks to address historical injustices such as colonialism and slavery. The AU hopes to build a stronger case for reparations on a global scale.
Another key topic will be Africa’s economic growth and the implementation of Agenda 2063, the AU’s long-term vision for sustainable development. Leaders are expected to make commitments toward industrialization, food security, and healthcare. Plans to launch the African Humanitarian Agency in Uganda will also be discussed to improve crisis response.
A high-stakes election will take place at the summit, where African leaders will choose the next AU Commission chairperson. Kenya’s Raila Odinga, Djibouti’s Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, and Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato are competing for the top role. Analysts believe Odinga is the frontrunner, but concerns over his age remain.As the summit unfolds, all eyes will be on how African leaders tackle these conflicts and shape the continent’s future. The decisions made in Addis Ababa could determine Africa’s stability and development for years to come.
By Nairobi