Addis Ababa is currently hosting the 51st Ordinary Session of the African Union’s (AU) Permanent Representatives Committee (PRC). This session serves as a crucial precursor to the 48th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council, scheduled for February 11th and 12th, and the 39th Ordinary Session of the AU Heads of State and Government Summit on February 14th and 15th.
The agenda for the session includes a comprehensive review of strategic and institutional reports, with a particular focus on the implementation of the AU’s Agenda 2025 in the realm of justice. Furthermore, the roadmap for 2026, aimed at ensuring sustainable water supplies and safe sanitation across the continent, will be thoroughly examined.
Deliberations will also encompass an assessment of the activities undertaken by the sub-committees and specialized technical committees operating under the PRC. This aims to bolster the coordination of institutional efforts at the continental level.
In his opening address, the Chairperson of the AU Commission, emphasized the strategic importance of the upcoming summit. He stated that “the continent is passing through a delicate phase,” stressing that the summit’s theme for 2026, centered on water as a vital resource for life, development, and sustainability, is both timely and forward-looking.
The Chairperson also welcomed the decision to host the 32nd Conference of the Parties (COP32) in Africa, specifically in Addis Ababa in 2027.
Addressing current challenges in peace and security across the continent, the Chairperson affirmed that “the African Union continues, through the Peace and Security Council, special envoys, the Committee of the Wise, and commissioners, its efforts to address various crises and promote reforms to the African Peace and Security Architecture.”
Regarding economic affairs and development, the Chairperson highlighted the active involvement of member states, which contributed to the success of several major international and continental events during 2025.
