AU Heads of State Convene 39th Summit in Addis Ababa Under Water and Sanitation Theme

Addis Ababa, February 14, 2026 (ENA)—Heads of State and Government of the African Union are convening today for the 39th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly at the Union’s headquarters in Addis Ababa.

Held under the theme “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063,” the Summit reflects Africa’s collective determination to intensify action on water security and safe sanitation — indispensable foundations for sustainable development, public health, and the full realization of Agenda 2063.

African leaders began arriving in the Ethiopian capital over the past two days to participate in both the 39th AU Summit and the Second Italy–Africa Summit, co-hosted by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

Among those already present in Addis Ababa are President William Ruto, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, President Hakainde Hichilema, and President Salva Kiir Mayardit, according to reports.

Over the course of the Summit, leaders are expected to deliberate on pressing continental priorities, including peace and security, economic integration, climate resilience, and institutional reform. The Assembly will review progress reports of the AU Commission and examine measures to accelerate implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), strengthen infrastructure connectivity, and mobilize sustainable financing for development.

The high-level gathering is also expected to be attended by United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, alongside leaders and representatives from across Africa and beyond.

The convening of the Summit in Addis Ababa — host city of the African Union — once again underscores Ethiopia’s enduring role as Africa’s diplomatic capital and highlights the continent’s shared resolve to advance unity, stability, integration, and collective prosperity.