PM Abiy Underscores Africa Must Be at the Table in Shaping the Global Agenda

Addis Ababa, February 14, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has called on Africa to move beyond merely reacting to global developments and instead take an active role in shaping them, as the continent approaches the Silver Jubilee of the African Union.

Opening the 39th AU Summit in Addis Ababa, the Prime Minister emphasized unity, sovereignty, and strategic confidence at a time of mounting global uncertainty.

“In this era of uncertainty, Africa's strength will lie in a Union that is confident and united,” he stated.

According to PM Abiy: “As we approach the African Union’s Silver Jubilee, Africa and the world are on the table. Africa must be at the table.”

The Premier further stressed that true sovereignty extends beyond political independence to include ownership of Africa’s narrative, innovation, and technological destiny.

“In 2020, Ethiopia established Africa’s first Artificial Intelligence Institute,” he noted.

He further announced that Ethiopia is preparing to launch an AI University aimed at positioning both the country and the continent at the forefront of the age of intelligence and digital transformation.

Concluding with a forward-looking vision anchored in Agenda 2063, the Prime Minister declared:

“By 2063, Africa will be defined by what we secure, what we sustain, and what we share.”

The 39th AU Summit brings together African leaders, international partners, and multilateral institutions at a moment of profound global transition. Discussions are centered on deepening continental integration, accelerating economic transformation, strengthening peace and security, and amplifying Africa’s voice and influence in global governance.