Addis Ababa:Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has urged African political leaders to focus on unity, inclusive governance, and long-term development commitments, emphasizing the necessity of collective leadership for advancing the continent's economic transformation.
According to Ethiopian Press Agency, the Prime Minister made these remarks on social media after participating in the second day of the Second African Political Parties Summit (APPS 2026) in Addis Ababa, themed 'Governing for Growth Political Parties as Architects of Africa's Economic Future.'
Abiy highlighted the importance of Ethiopia's Medemer (synergy) philosophy, stating that unity is crucial for Africa to achieve its development goals. He stressed that national unity, accountability, and inclusive governance are key to translating political leadership into tangible improvements in citizens' lives.
The Prime Minister called on political parties to move beyond electoral competition by building consensus on long-term national priorities, which should remain consistent despite changes in government. He highlighted the role of collective action in safeguarding national interests and promoting sustainable development.
The summit, attended by political party leaders, policymakers, and representatives from across Africa, focuses on strengthening political institutions to drive economic growth, institutional reform, and continental transformation. It emphasizes the responsibility of political parties in shaping Africa's economic future through productive investment, industrialization, employment creation, effective governance, and sustainable development.
Additionally, the discussions underscore the need for coherent economic policies, strengthened institutional capacity, and lasting cooperation around shared priorities. Youth and women's participation in political leadership is also a key agenda item, with Abiy stressing the importance of investing in the next generation and enabling young people to develop leadership capacities.
Abiy reaffirmed Ethiopia's commitment to providing training through the African Leadership Excellence Academy to political parties across the continent. This initiative aims to support leadership development, strengthen political institutions, and expand opportunities for experience-sharing among African political actors.
The APPS 2026, building on the inaugural 2025 gathering in Accra, Ghana, offers a platform for political parties to exchange experiences and develop practical responses to Africa's governance and development challenges. The summit aims to enhance political cooperation and encourage parties to prioritize economic transformation, peace, institutional accountability, and citizens' welfare in their political programs.
A central challenge of the summit is turning dialogue into concrete commitments to sustain development beyond electoral cycles. Abiy's message highlights the importance of political leadership that builds consensus, strengthens unity, and makes long-term development a shared responsibility across Africa.
