Ethiopia, Kenya Step Up AU Financial Support to First Category Status

Addis Ababa, July 29, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia and Kenya have voluntarily agreed to increase their annual statutory contributions to the African Union (AU) to First Category Member State level, marking a major highlight of the 49th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council.

The decision, spanning the 2027–2029 assessment cycle under the Union's harmonized contribution system, stands out as a concrete demonstration of Pan-African solidarity and commitment to a financially autonomous African Union.

Closing the two-day ministerial session in Addis Ababa, Chairperson of the AU Executive Council and Burundi’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Development Cooperation, Édouard Bizimana, expressed optimism that it will inspire other member states to strengthen collective efforts toward a financially self-reliant Union anchored on predictable and long-term financing.

He urged member states to implement all decisions adopted during the meeting with diligence, solidarity, and shared responsibility.

The Chairperson also stressed that deepening regional integration through closer cooperation among AU member states, Regional Economic Communities (RECs), and Union institutions remains vital to building a prosperous, resilient, and self-reliant continent.

The two-day session saw foreign ministers evaluate progress on Agenda 2063 implementation, institutional governance priorities, and strategic continental issues. The decisions and recommendations adopted during the session will now be submitted to the Assembly of Heads of State and Government for consideration.