Addis Ababa, May 25, 2026 (FMC) — The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has reaffirmed the continent’s commitment to unity, integration, and development as Africa marks the 63rd anniversary of the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU).
In his Africa Day message, the AU Commission Chair said the occasion remains a historic milestone that continues to inspire Africa’s collective pursuit of unity, liberation, dignity, and development, as the continent reflects on more than six decades of continental cooperation.
Marking this year’s observance under the theme “63 Years of Unity, Integration and Development,” Youssouf emphasized the importance of celebrating Africa’s shared heritage while recognizing its expanding role in global affairs.
He reiterated the African Union’s commitment to Agenda 2063, describing it as the guiding framework for building “the Africa we want,” and underscored that Africa Day reflects both historical achievement and future ambition.
Youssouf noted that Africa continues to advance the spirit of Ubuntu—“I am because we are”—highlighting solidarity, cooperation, and shared humanity as central pillars of the continent’s development path in an increasingly uncertain global environment.
He further stated that Africa’s voice has grown stronger on the international stage over the past year, pointing to the continent’s admission as a permanent member of the G20 as a historic milestone that enhances Africa’s role in global economic governance and decision-making processes.
According to him, this development strengthens Africa’s ability to contribute meaningfully to global discussions on peace, climate change, food security, trade, health, and sustainable development.
The AU Commission Chair also highlighted ongoing institutional reforms within the African Union aimed at building a more effective, responsive, and results-oriented organization capable of delivering on the aspirations of African citizens.
He further noted that this year’s African Union theme, focusing on assuring sustainable water availability and safe sanitation systems, reflects the continent’s priorities in addressing water security, climate resilience, public health, and sustainable development as foundations for achieving Agenda 2063 goals.
Youssouf concluded that Africa Day remains both a celebration of progress and a reminder of the continued need for unity and collective action in advancing the continent’s transformation agenda.