Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Urges Unity, Reform, Prosperity at 39th AU Summit

January 14, 2018

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inaugurated the 39th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, urging unity, reform, and stronger continental cooperation. 

Welcoming leaders to Africa’s political and economic hub, he described the gathering as both a privilege and a reaffirmation of Africa’s collective commitment to peace, prosperity, and institutional renewal for the continent’s renaissance.

Prime Minister Abiy emphasized that the AU was founded on the vision of a sovereign and dignified Africa, urging member states to strengthen institutions and deepen accountability. “Reform is not a choice, it is a necessity for Africa’s renaissance,” he declared.

On peace and security, the Prime Minister reiterated Ethiopia’s belief in “African solutions to African problems,” stressing the importance of dialogue, reconciliation, and collective security mechanisms to safeguard the continent’s future.

Regarding economic integration, Prime Minister Abiyhighlighted the African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA) as a historic step toward shared prosperity, while urging nations to embrace digital transformation as a pillar of sovereignty and competitiveness.

The Prime Minister also underscored the need to invest in health and human development, calling for stronger commitments to nutrition, malaria eradication, and digital health technologies.

Concluding his remarks, Prime Minister Abiy urged leaders to project Africa’s resilience and reform narrative globally, affirming that “Africa’s destiny is written here, by us, for our people.”