Written by: Badr Ahmed

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssef, issued an official statement on the occasion of Africa Day In 2026, he affirmed that the African continent is celebrating this year the 63rd anniversary of the founding of the Organization of African Unity, a historic milestone that embodies a long journey of common struggle for unity, liberation, dignity and development.

The Commission Chair explained that this year’s celebration comes under the slogan: “63 years of unity, integration and development… Let’s celebrate together,” stressing that this slogan reflects the continent’s continued commitment to the goals of Agenda 2063, and to building the Africa we want, based on prosperity, integration and stability.

63 years of unity and integration on Africa Day 2026

The statement noted that Africa Day is an occasion to celebrate the shared heritage of the continent's peoples, as well as to recognize Africa's growing role on the international stage, explaining that the continent has become more present and influential in global issues.

The Chairperson of the Commission affirmed that Africa, guided by the spirit of Ubuntu, which means “I am because we are,” continues to promote the values of solidarity, regional cooperation, and joint action in a world experiencing uncertainty.

He pointed out that last year witnessed the strengthening of Africa’s presence on the international stage, especially through its obtaining permanent membership in the G20, which represents a historic step towards enabling the continent to actively participate in global economic decision-making and contribute to issues of peace, climate, food security, trade, health and sustainable development.

He also noted that the African Union continues to implement institutional reforms aimed at enhancing the organization's efficiency and making it more capable of meeting the aspirations of the African people.

Regarding the African Union's theme for the year, the statement explained that it focuses on ensuring the sustainable availability of safe water and sanitation systems, as a key element for achieving the goals of Agenda 2063, enhancing water security, resilience to climate change, and improving public health.

The statement stressed that Africa continues to demand reform of the multilateral system to make it more equitable and representative, including reform of the UN Security Council to end what it described as the historical injustice against the continent.

He also welcomed the growing international trend towards restorative justice, noting Ghana's efforts at the United Nations to revive the global debate on the effects of colonialism and slavery.

In a sporting context, the statement noted the participation of nine African teams in the upcoming World Cup finals, the highest representation in the continent’s history, reflecting the development of African youth capabilities and their increasing global presence.

The Chairperson of the Commission concluded his statement by calling on African diplomats around the world to strengthen coordination and joint action to amplify the African voice, stressing the importance of supporting international partnerships in the areas of peace, development and institutional reform, and emphasizing that Africa’s future is based on the unity of its peoples and their belief in their unlimited capabilities and potential.