Burundi assumes African Union Chairmanship for 2026

Burundi officially assumed the 2026 chairmanship of the African Union (AU) during the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa.

President Évariste Ndayishimiye took over the rotating chairmanship from Angola's President João Lourenço at the AU headquarters.

In his acceptance speech, Ndayishimiye noted that Angola was handing over leadership at a time marked by persistent security challenges, rising unilateralism, economic tensions, and the growing impact of climate change across the continent.

He pledged to lead with a spirit of dialogue, impartiality, and cooperation, collaborating with all member states to build consensus and advance shared priorities.

Ndayishimiye added that Burundi would use its tenure to strengthen Africa's voice on the global stage and contribute to building a fairer, more balanced, and inclusive international order.

Congratulating Ndayishimiye on his unanimous election as AU Chairperson, Lourenço expressed confidence in his leadership over the coming year.

"It is with great honour and a deep sense of brotherhood that I extend, on behalf of the Angolan people and on my own behalf, the warmest congratulations to His Excellency President Évariste Ndayishimiye on his election as Chairperson pro tempore of the African Union," he said.

He noted that the unanimous election reflects the collective trust of member states that the Union will be guided by a statesman of distinguished qualities, capable of safeguarding Africa's shared interests and objectives.

(Story compiled with assistance from wire reports)