Tanzania at 48th African Union Executive Council – Addis Ababa 2024

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – February 15, 2026 – Tanzania is actively participating in the 48th session of the African Union Executive Council, currently underway in Addis Ababa. The meeting, which brings together foreign ministers and senior officials from across the continent, is focused on critical issues of development, peace and security, as well as regional cooperation and the implementation of decisions stemming from the recent Heads of State Summit.

Tanzanian Foreign Affairs Minister and East African Cooperation, Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, is representing the United Republic of Tanzania at the high-level gathering. His presence underscores Tanzania’s commitment to the African Union’s agenda and its ongoing efforts to foster collaboration and address shared challenges across the continent.

The Executive Council meeting serves as a crucial preparatory stage for the 39th African Union Summit. Discussions are centered around key priorities identified in the AU’s 2024–2028 plan, with a particular emphasis on institutional reforms, strengthening peace and security structures, and securing sustainable financing for the Union’s initiatives. AU Commission Chair Mahmoud Youssouf Ali highlighted these areas during the opening session, stressing the importance of continued progress.

Beyond internal reforms, the meeting agenda reflects a growing awareness of external pressures impacting the continent. Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos cautioned attendees about the weakening of multilateral cooperation in the face of shifting global geopolitics. This observation points to a broader concern among African leaders regarding the potential erosion of international partnerships and the need for greater self-reliance.

Economic development is also a central theme of the discussions. Clever Gatete, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), advocated for stronger development financing mechanisms, increased infrastructure integration, and a focus on adding value to Africa’s abundant mineral and agricultural resources. Gatete also emphasized the importance of expanding the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and leveraging technology to drive economic growth. These proposals align with the AU’s broader vision of creating a more integrated and prosperous African economy.

The meeting also acknowledged the outgoing leadership of Angola within the African Union. Chair Ali expressed gratitude for Angola’s contributions during its tenure, signaling a smooth transition as the Union moves forward with its strategic objectives.

The focus on peace and security is particularly significant given the complex challenges facing several African nations. While specific conflict zones were not detailed in available reports, the inclusion of this topic on the agenda suggests a continued commitment to addressing instability and promoting peaceful resolutions to disputes. The strengthening of peace and security structures is seen as vital for creating an environment conducive to sustainable development and regional integration.

The discussions surrounding sustainable financing are also critical. Many African nations face significant financial constraints, hindering their ability to invest in essential infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Securing adequate and sustainable funding sources is therefore paramount to achieving the AU’s long-term development goals. The call for institutional strengthening suggests a desire to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the AU’s financial management systems.

The emphasis on value addition to minerals and crops reflects a growing recognition of the need to move beyond simply exporting raw materials. By processing these resources domestically, African nations can create jobs, increase their export earnings, and reduce their dependence on external markets. This strategy is seen as a key component of a broader industrialization agenda.

The expansion of the AfCFTA is also expected to play a crucial role in driving economic growth. By creating a single market for goods and services across the continent, the AfCFTA has the potential to boost intra-African trade, attract foreign investment, and create new opportunities for businesses.

The call for greater use of technology for growth underscores the importance of embracing innovation and digital transformation. Technology can be leveraged to improve efficiency, enhance productivity, and create new industries. Investing in digital infrastructure and skills development is therefore essential for Africa to remain competitive in the global economy.

The 48th session of the African Union Executive Council represents a critical moment for the continent as it navigates a complex and rapidly changing global landscape. The discussions taking place in Addis Ababa will shape the AU’s priorities and strategies for the years to come, with implications for the economic, political, and social development of all African nations. Tanzania’s participation, led by Minister Kombo, demonstrates its continued dedication to the collective pursuit of a more prosperous and peaceful future for Africa.