Botswana and Nigeria’s Foreign Ministers have urged for enhanced collaboration among African nations to develop solutions tailored to the continent’s challenges during the 46th Ordinary Session of the African Union. They emphasized intra-African trade, resource valuation, and the necessity for AU reforms to ensure effective leadership. Their discussions aim to mobilize efforts towards achieving ‘The Africa We Want.’
In a call for unity among African nations, the Foreign Ministers of Botswana and Nigeria have emphasized the necessity for collaboration in addressing challenges faced by the continent. Their remarks came during the 46th Ordinary Session of the African Union’s Executive Council held in Addis Ababa. Minister Phenyo Butale of Botswana and Nigeria’s Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar articulated that member states must come together to establish African solutions to African problems.
Minister Butale highlighted the imperative for African countries to engage in intra-continental trade, asserting that “Africa is rich in resources” and stressing the need to add value to these resources through local production. He advocated for moving beyond raw material exports to finished goods manufacturing within Africa. Furthermore, Butale expressed hope for African leaders to realize the vision of “The Africa We Want” and to mobilize resources for the realization of unfulfilled initiatives.
Minister Tuggar of Nigeria addressed the AU’s ongoing discussions regarding reforms within the organization and the outcomes from the Permanent Representatives Committee. He underscored this year’s focus on reparations, noting that a systematic approach will yield benefits for African populations. Tuggar also pointed to the need for reforms in the global financial and political structures, particularly within the United Nations and its Security Council.
In closing, Minister Tuggar stated the importance of new leadership within the AU that adheres to reform recommendations and utilizes resources efficiently. He asserted that unity within the African Union is crucial to advocate for necessary reforms that will serve the interests of the continent. The current session will culminate in a Heads of State and Government meeting scheduled for February 15-16, 2025.
The Foreign Ministers of Botswana and Nigeria have voiced a clear message advocating for greater collaboration among African nations. They stress that African countries need to devise homegrown solutions to unique challenges, emphasizing the importance of trade and resource value addition. Furthermore, discussions on AU reforms and the need for cohesive leadership were highlighted as essential for the continent’s progress.
Original Source: www.ena.et
