The African Union has reaffirmed Africa’s commitment to unity, integration and sustainable development as the continent celebrated Africa Day 2026.
Chairperson of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, said the 63rd anniversary of the former Organisation of African Unity remains a symbol of Africa’s collective struggle for dignity, liberation and progress.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Sixty-three Years of Unity, Integration and Development, Let’s Celebrate Together,” Youssouf noted that the celebration reflects Africa’s enduring commitment to the aspirations of Agenda 2063.
He also highlighted Africa’s growing global relevance, citing the continent’s permanent membership in the G20 as a major step toward inclusive global economic governance.
The AU Commission Chairperson further explained that the continental body is pursuing institutional reforms aimed at building a stronger, more responsive organisation capable of meeting the needs and expectations of Africans across all sectors.
Meanwhile, stakeholders at the Africa Day Conference and Symposium in Abuja urged young Africans to take the lead in driving economic transformation, innovation and sustainable development across the continent.
The event, organised by the Pan-African AU Agenda 2063 Diplomatic Mission, brought together policymakers, youth leaders and development experts to assess Africa’s progress under Agenda 2063.
Chairman of the Pan-African Continental Super-Marketplace, Dr Patrick Sule Ogboma, stressed that Africa’s integration goals and the African Continental Free Trade Area can only succeed if young people are fully empowered to innovate, trade and build sustainable systems.
He added that the digital marketplace platform was created to connect African businesses, farmers, innovators, investors and consumers across borders.