Monday, 25 May 2026
Egypt’s Sisi marks Africa Day, calls for stronger continental unity
Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al‑Sisi on Saturday delivered a speech marking Africa Day, celebrated this year at Cairo University, highlighting the continent’s unity, development ambitions and the need for stronger regional cooperation.
The presidency’s spokesperson said Africa commemorates Africa Day every May 25, honouring the 1963 founding of the Organisation of African Unity, later transformed into the African Union. The day, he noted, reflects the continent’s historic struggle for freedom and its ongoing pursuit of development.
Presidential spokesperson Mohamed El‑Shenawy said this year’s celebration underscored Egypt’s historic and current role in supporting Africa, as well as successful partnerships that contribute to the AU’s Agenda 2063 development goals.
In his address, Sisi praised the “will of African peoples for liberation and unity” and said the continent stood “on the threshold of a new phase of construction and development,” relying on its vast resources and the determination of its populations.
Sisi said Egypt’s hosting of the event at Cairo University carried symbolic significance, describing the institution as a historic centre of knowledge whose influence extended across Africa and the Middle East.
He warned that global and regional crises, including pressures on maritime routes, international trade, supply chains, and energy and food security, demanded greater African solidarity. He urged intensified cooperation to protect the continent’s interests and secure vital waterways “in accordance with international law.”
The president stressed the importance of the African Union’s 2024 theme on water, calling it essential for regional integration and sustainable development. He reiterated Egypt’s position on the need to respect international laws governing transboundary rivers and to ensure responsible management that prevents tensions and promotes peace.
Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to safeguarding the unity and territorial integrity of African states, describing strong national institutions as the foundation for peace and stability. He said Egypt would continue supporting development across the continent through expertise-sharing, joint projects and cooperation with international partners.
He also announced that Egypt would host the AU’s eighth coordination summit in June 2026, calling it an opportunity to review regional integration efforts and advance the second ten‑year plan of Agenda 2063.
Concluding his speech, Sisi congratulated African nations on the occasion and voiced hope for continued progress and prosperity across the continent.