By Dr. Kivumbi Earnest Benjamin, L.H.D. (Hon.) Updated at 1645 EAT on Friday 13th February 2026

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia- The Executive Council of the African Union on Thursday concluded its week-long session, wrapping up a series of strategic deliberations ahead of the 14–15 February Assembly of Heads of State and Government.

The meeting brought together foreign ministers from across the continent to review key policy priorities and strengthen institutional coordination in line with the African Union’s long-term development blueprint, Agenda 2063.

Strengthening Continental Justice

The African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights underscored the need to reinforce continental justice mechanisms and improve Member State compliance with its rulings. The Court stressed that effective enforcement of its decisions remains critical to promoting the rule of law, accountability, and the protection of human rights across Africa.

Amplifying Citizens’ Voices

The Pan-African Parliament reaffirmed its mandate to represent the voice of African citizens within the Union’s governance architecture. Lawmakers emphasised the importance of legislative harmonisation among Member States to accelerate regional integration and support the implementation of Agenda 2063.

Food Security and the Blue Economy

The African Union’s Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment (ARBE) outlined priorities centred on food security, agricultural transformation, sustainable environmental management, and unlocking the continent’s vast blue economy potential. Officials noted that these sectors are essential to building resilience, creating jobs, and fostering inclusive economic growth.

Advancing Education and Innovation

The Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation (ESTI) highlighted progress in education reform, research, innovation, and skills development. The department emphasised that strengthening Africa’s knowledge economy is key to improving competitiveness and driving sustainable development.

The Executive Council’s outcomes are expected to inform the resolutions and strategic direction of the upcoming Assembly of Heads of State and Government.

On the margins of the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the AU Commission, received His Majesty Letsie III of #Lesotho.

Their discussions focused on the continent’s pressing priorities, including peace & security, political stability, & sustainable development. They also with particular emphasis on the centrality of nutrition to Africa’s development agenda.

King Letsie III of Lesotho, who serves as the AU Nutrition Champion, called for increased investment and political commitment to combat malnutrition & child stunting across Africa.

His Majesty & the Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Yusuf underscored the critical role of nutrition in advancing human capital development and reaffirmed their shared commitment to elevating nutrition as a cornerstone of inclusive growth & long-term prosperity across the continent.