Amid the current crises taking place on the continent, from militia-war to widespread drought, the 29th Ordinary Summit of the AU is looking to address those issues and many more.
Held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia the event will bring together some of the most important leaders and ministers from around Africa, to discuss the matters at hand and to work together to combat the challenges.
Youth: ‘Harnessing the demographic dividend through investments in the Youth’
Heading the Summit is the theme of “Youth: ‘Harnessing the demographic dividend through investments in the Youth’”, which is planned to feature a presidential debate by President Idriss Deby (Chad) and will discuss in-depth the “Roadmap” that has been developed by the AU Commission to provide a breakdown on how member states should invest in their youth.
Some countries have already launched the programme, which contains the following pillars: Employment and Entrepreneurship; Education and Skill Development; Health and Wellbeing; Governance and Youth Empowerment.
Institutional Reform of the African Union
Alongside the main theme, other key topics are likely to arise. President Paul Kagame (Rwanda) is expected to present a report on the implementation of his proposed reform plan for the AU, adopted by the Assembly in January this year. A decision will be taken on what has been done and what remains to be done – according to Maravi Post.
Peace and Security
The Chairperson of the AU Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat (Chad), is expected to provide a report on the state of peace and security in Africa. This topic will be key in identifying the current threats facing the continent, especially with the recent terrorist attacks in North Kenya, Mogadishu and Cairo. Highlights will most probably included South Sudan, C.A.R., Somalia, D.R. Congo and Mali, as well as the recent global cyber-attacks and maritime piracy.
Budget and Funding of the Union
A recent projection stated that the AU will need around $800 million for its operations, programmes and peace support. The current approved budget falls marginally short at $782 million – so the Summit is likely to feature a discussion on an updated report and funding strategy. It may also aim to ensure that all member nations do their bit in supplying and implementing the funding proposals so that the support total can be reached.
Agenda 2063 : First 10-year implementation plan
The other main topic likely to be discussed by officials is Agenda 2063, a strategic framework for the socio-economic transformation of the continent over the next 50 years. It builds on, and seeks to accelerate the implementation of past and existing continental initiatives for growth and sustainable development. A progress report on the implementation of Agenda 2063 will be presented to the Summit, and will be heavily discussed on whether it is feasible. Many have questioned the reality of the Agenda meeting its target, as for it to flourish it must do so in a peaceful environment. In the current climate on the continent, that target is looking more difficult to reach than ever.
The 29th Ordinary Summit of the AU has caught the eye of the youth, who see themselves as the leaders of the next generation to sweep the continent. With such scrutiny form International Organisaitons on the way African leaders handle their nation’s investments, it will be music to young people’s ears to learn that funding may be heading their way to ensure a better and more profitable future.
