On the occasion of Africa Day 2026, H.E. Mr. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), and H.E. Mr. Évariste Ndayishimiye, President of the Republic of Burundi and Chairperson of the African Union, issued a joint call for accelerated continental integration, reform of global governance, and concrete actions to improve the lives of all Africans.

Marking 63 years since the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), the precursor to the African Union (AU), this year’s celebrations are held under the theme: “Sixty-three (63) Years of Unity, Integration and Development: Let’s Celebrate Together.”

In his statement, AUC Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf highlighted Africa’s growing influence in global affairs, including its permanent membership in the G20. He reaffirmed the AU’s call for a fairer and more representative multilateral system, including comprehensive reform of the United Nations Security Council to correct what he described as a “long-standing historical injustice against our continent.”

He also welcomed the growing global momentum around reparatory justice, commending Ghana’s leadership at the United Nations General Assembly in advancing discussions on reparations and the enduring legacy of slavery and colonialism.

President Évariste Ndayishimiye delivered a more sobering message, stressing that celebration must go hand in hand with awareness of ongoing challenges. He drew attention to millions of Africans affected by armed conflict, terrorism, climate-related disasters, and forced displacement.

He stated: “An African child deprived of education today is part of Africa’s future that we are abandoning tomorrow.” He called for education to be prioritized even in refugee and internally displaced persons (IDP) settings, and urged stronger continental unity against terrorism, emphasizing that “no country should be left alone to face this threat.”

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a key driver of economic sovereignty, youth employment, and industrialization. President Ndayishimiye further urged African leaders to “speak with one voice” and prioritize continental interests above national concerns.

The AUC Chairperson highlighted the 2026 AU Theme of the Year: “Ensuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063,” noting that water security, climate resilience, and public health are essential foundations for Africa’s future.

In a moment of pride, he also noted that nine African national teams have qualified for the FIFA World Cup the highest representation in the continent’s history reflecting the talent and ambition of African youth.

Both leaders expressed gratitude to AU staff, diplomats, partners, and friends of Africa for their continued support. President Ndayishimiye concluded: “Long live a united Africa! Long live the African Union, and Happy Africa Day to all.”

Finally, Chairperson Youssouf invoked the spirit of Ubuntu “I am because we are” calling on Africans to renew their commitment to Pan-Africanism and to the limitless potential of the continent.