African Leaders Call for Ceasefires and UN Security Council Reform Amid Escalating Crises
On February 11, 2026, the 39th African Union Summit concluded at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. African heads of state emphasized the urgent need to end ongoing conflicts across the continent and called for reforms to the United Nations Security Council to better reflect current global dynamics. The summit also addressed critical issues including the Gaza crisis, regional conflicts within Africa, and water security, highlighting peace and sustainable development as priorities.
During the summit, President Évariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi was elected as the African Union Chairperson for 2026. Ethiopia played a key role in coordinating member states to advance Africa's development agenda while protecting national interests. The summit underscored water security as a key development priority and stressed strengthening cooperation among member states to address water and sanitation challenges.
The event opened amid youth discontent and calls for reform within the African Union's leadership and effectiveness. Prior to the summit, Ethiopia's State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Birhanu Tesgaye, and AU Deputy Chairperson Selma Malika Haddadi discussed preparations for the event, highlighting Ethiopia's leadership role.
