Burundi Assumes 2026 African Union Chairmanship from Angola

President Évariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi has been formally elected as the Chairperson of the African Union (AU) for the year 2026, taking over the rotating leadership from Angola’s João Lourenço at the 39th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The summit, convened at the AU headquarters, is being held under the theme “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063,” underscoring the continent’s commitment to water security, sanitation, and foundational development priorities as outlined in the AU’s long‑term strategic framework.

During the session, President Ndayishimiye officially commenced his duties following a ceremonial handover of the AU Chairmanship from President Lourenço.

The transition marks Burundi’s stewardship of the continental body for the next year, with Ndayishimiye set to represent the AU and guide its political, development, and diplomatic agenda during his tenure.

The leadership change comes as African leaders gather to address pressing continental challenges,  including water scarcity, sanitation deficits, peace and security, and economic integration, while aligning their collective efforts with the aspirations of Agenda 2063, Africa’s blueprint for inclusive growth, resilience, and unity.

At the summit’s margins, the AU Commission Chairperson also met with Ndayishimiye to express appreciation for Burundi’s contributions to peace and stability, and to encourage continued engagement in advancing continental integration and cooperation.