Reported by: S. Ernest.
Date: 13th February, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has announced that President Hakainde Hichilema will attend the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU), scheduled for February 15–16, 2025, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The AU Assembly, the highest decision-making body of the Union, will convene under the theme: “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations.”
This theme underscores the AU’s commitment to addressing historical injustices related to the transatlantic slave trade, colonialism and systemic discrimination, while advocating for reparations and justice for people of African descent worldwide.
KEY ISSUES ON THE AGENDA
The summit will deliberate on a range of critical continental and global issues, including:
AU Institutional Reforms to enhance governance and efficiency.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and strategies for accelerating economic integration.
Peace and security initiatives to address conflicts and instability across the continent.
Africa’s role in the G20 and strategies for stronger global engagement.
Reports from high-level committees, including the Committee of 10 Heads of State on UN Security Council Reform, the AUDA-NEPAD Heads of State Orientation Committee, and the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Forum.
ZAMBIA’S STRATEGIC ENGAGEMENTS
While in Ethiopia, President Hichilema will participate in high-level engagements, including the APRM Summit and the High-Level Meeting on Sustainable Financing in Africa.
Additionally, he will hold bilateral meetings with key leaders and partners to advance Zambia’s national, economic, and diplomatic priorities.
His participation reaffirms Zambia’s commitment to continental development, economic transformation, and regional cooperation.
The New Dawn Government remains dedicated to strengthening Zambia’s role in Africa’s economic integration, sustainable development, and peace initiatives.
The 38th AU Summit follows the 46th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council (Session of Ministers), which took place from February 12–13, 2025.
President Hakainde Hichilema is expected to return to Zambia upon the completion of his engagements.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Zambia
The Agency