African Union Faces Challenges at 39th Summit in Addis Ababa

The article by Owei Lakemfa critiques the African Union (AU) during its 39th summit held on February 14 in Addis Ababa, emphasizing the organization's inability to effectively manage conflicts and ensure peace across the continent. It notes that the Peace and Security Council (PSC) lacks the necessary authority and efficiency to address ongoing crises, such as the longstanding tensions between Morocco and Algeria over Western Sahara.

The article highlights the AU's failure to integrate the Maghreb region, with the last full summit of the Arab Maghreb Union occurring 32 years ago. It also points out the ineffectiveness of the PSC in holding leaders accountable, citing Egyptian leader Abdel Fattah el-Sisi's controversial role as a coup plotter while serving as AU chairman.

The article concludes by stressing the need for a unified African voice in international forums, particularly in the context of the United Nations Security Council.