03 Jul AU calls for stronger regional cooperation to tackle Africa’s evolving security challenges

The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission has called on Member States to strengthen regional cooperation as Africa continues to face increasingly complex security and economic challenges.

Speaking at the closing session of the 52nd Ordinary Session of the Permanent Representatives’ Committee (PRC) in Ethiopia, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said closer coordination between the African Union, Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and Regional Mechanisms (RMs) would be vital to improving peace, security and sustainable development across the continent.

“The continent continues to face complex and evolving challenges,” Youssouf said, adding that the collective commitment shown by Member States would help Africa respond more effectively to emerging threats.

He stressed that stronger collaboration between continental and regional institutions would improve the implementation of policies designed to promote peace, economic integration and long-term development.

Youssouf also acknowledged the wider impact of global economic pressures on African nations, noting that disruptions to maritime navigation through the Strait of Hormuz had placed additional strain on energy markets and international supply chains. He expressed hope that the recently announced ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran would contribute to greater regional stability and help ease economic pressures affecting international trade.

Closing the session, Youssouf commended the work of the Permanent Representatives’ Committee and its Chair, Ambassador Willy Nyamitwe, before urging Member States to continue supporting the African Union’s institutional reform agenda, including measures to strengthen the organisation’s financial sustainability and operational capacity.