Addis ababa: Ethiopia and Kenya have voluntarily stepped forward to enhance their financial support to the African Union (AU) by agreeing to increase their annual statutory contributions to the First Category Member State level. This pivotal decision was a major highlight during the 49th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council held in Addis Ababa.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, this agreement, covering the 2027-2029 assessment cycle under the AU's harmonized contribution system, is a significant move towards fostering Pan-African solidarity and demonstrates a commitment to a financially autonomous African Union. The decision underscores the importance of predictable and long-term financing for the Union.
As the two-day ministerial session concluded, €š¬…¡¬°douard Bizimana, Chairperson of the AU Executive Council and Burundi's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Development Cooperation, expressed optimism that this initiative would encourage other member states to enhance their commitments. He emphasized the need for diligence, solidarity, and shared responsibility in implementing decisions adopted during the meeting.
Bizimana also highlighted the importance of deepening regional integration through enhanced cooperation among AU member states, Regional Economic Communities (RECs), and Union institutions. This approach is seen as vital to building a prosperous, resilient, and self-reliant continent.
During the session, foreign ministers assessed progress on Agenda 2063, institutional governance priorities, and strategic continental issues. The decisions and recommendations from the session are set to be submitted to the Assembly of Heads of State and Government for further consideration.