Addis Ababa Hosting Wave of African Heads of State Ahead of 39th AU Summit

Addis Ababa, February 12, 2026 (ENA)—Addis Ababa is welcoming a wave of African heads of state and government as preparations intensify for the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU).

The high-level summit, set to convene at the AU Headquarters, brings together leaders from across the continent to deliberate on pressing continental priorities, including peace and security, economic integration, climate resilience, governance, and sustainable development.

President Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi

President Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi arrived in Addis Ababa this afternoon to participate in the 39th AU Summit.

Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, President Ndayishimiye was warmly received by Ethiopia’s Minister of Innovation and Technology, Belete Molla, alongside State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye.

President Duma Gideon Boko of Botswana

President Duma Gideon Boko of the Republic of Botswana also arrived in the Ethiopian capital to attend the high-level gathering.

He was received at Bole International Airport by Minister Belete Molla and State Minister Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye, underscoring Ethiopia’s diplomatic hospitality as host nation.

AU Chairperson and Angolan President João Lourenço

The President of the Republic of Angola and current Chairperson of the African Union, João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, has likewise arrived in Addis Ababa to take part in the summit proceedings.

As the sitting AU Chairperson, President Lourenço is expected to play a central role in guiding deliberations and advancing the Union’s strategic agenda during the session.

Djibouti’s President Ismail Omar Guelleh

President Ismail Omar Guelleh of the Republic of Djibouti has also arrived in Addis Ababa for the 39th AU Summit.

He was received at Bole International Airport by Minister Belete Molla and Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye.

With Addis Ababa once again serving as Africa’s diplomatic capital, the 39th AU Summit is expected to deliver key resolutions aimed at strengthening continental unity, accelerating economic transformation, and reinforcing Africa’s collective voice on the global stage.