Africa Must Shape New Global Order as World Undergoes Profound Transformation: FM Gedion

Addis Ababa, July 28, 2026 (ENA) — The foundations of the global order are undergoing profound transformation, making it imperative for Africa to seize the moment and actively shape the contours of the emerging international reality, Ethiopia's Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos said.

Addressing the opening of the 49th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU) in Addis Ababa, the foreign minister said the continent is meeting at a defining moment in international affairs as geopolitical shifts, technological disruption, climate pressures, and competition over strategic resources reshape the world order.

 

"The foundations of the global order are undergoing profound transformation," Gedion said, noting that the assumptions underpinning international relations for decades are being fundamentally challenged.

Describing the current period as one "destined for the history books," he stressed that Africa must not remain a passive observer but should position itself as a strategic actor capable of influencing global developments.

"We need to seize the moment to actively shape the contours of the new reality," the minister emphasized.

According to Gedion, the continent must strengthen its capacity to provide African solutions to global challenges through a stronger and more effective African Union.

"The African Union has a central role in this endeavor. Our Union must serve as the institution through which Africa articulates its priorities and advances its interests. The Union should emerge as a credible and authentic voice of Africa," he said.

Despite the complex global environment, Gedion underscored that Africa's trajectory remains promising.

 

He pointed out that eight of the world's ten fastest-growing economies in 2026 are African, adding that the continent is poised to become the engine of global economic growth during the second half of the 21st century.

The foreign minister reaffirmed Ethiopia's commitment to the African Union, describing it as the indispensable mechanism for continental solidarity, collective action, and a shared future.

Calling for bold institutional transformation, Gedion said reform efforts should extend beyond technical adjustments to embrace a deeper political and strategic recalibration capable of responding to today's rapidly evolving global realities.

He also stressed the urgency of securing the African Union's financial sustainability and independence, noting that a continental organization seeking to shape global affairs must possess adequate and predictable resources to implement its decisions.

On the management of Africa's vast natural resources, the minister urged member states to pursue cooperation, equitable utilization, and African-led governance frameworks.

 

"Africa's resources must be managed through African institutions, African frameworks, and African-led solutions," he said, adding that shared resources should become bridges for cooperation, regional integration, and shared prosperity.

Foreign ministers and senior officials from across the continent are convening in Addis Ababa for the 49th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council, where discussions are focusing on key continental priorities, including water security, sanitation, institutional reform, and sustainable development.