The Permanent Representations of Regional Economic Communities (RECs) to the African Union (AU) held a working meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on October 30, 2026, with the African Union Partner Embassies Group. The meeting aimed to strengthen dialogue on matters of common interest. The agenda focused on evaluating institutional synergies between the AU and RECs, as well as reviewing current affairs handled under the Burundian Presidency.
The meeting discussed the progress achieved within regional spaces, particularly regarding free movement of persons. The Permanent Representative of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) highlighted the historic and tangible progress achieved within its regional space. However, ECOWAS expressed concern about the low adherence and insufficient rate of ratification of the African Union Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, which hinders continental integration.
The Burundian Presidency presented a mid-term review of its mandate, marked by major sectoral progress. Flagship achievements included the adoption of the African Water and Sanitation Policy and the development of an operational implementation matrix aimed at translating security and humanitarian early warnings into concrete actions. The Presidency also reported on structural initiatives dedicated to women’s empowerment and youth inclusion.
The Partner Embassies Group praised the transparency of the exchanges and reiterated its commitment to supporting the AU-RECs coordination dynamic. This dynamic is essential for achieving the goals of Agenda 2063. The meeting demonstrated the importance of collaboration between the AU and RECs in promoting regional integration and addressing common challenges.
The African Union Partner Embassies Group plays a crucial role in supporting the AU’s activities and promoting its goals. The group comprises representatives from various embassies and international organizations. Their participation in the meeting underscores the significance of international cooperation in achieving regional integration and promoting economic development.
The Burundian Presidency’s priorities have been focused on promoting sectoral progress and addressing key challenges facing the continent. The adoption of the African Water and Sanitation Policy is a significant achievement, as it aims to improve access to clean water and sanitation across Africa. The development of an operational implementation matrix for security and humanitarian early warnings is also a critical initiative.
The meeting between the RECs and the Partner Embassies Group highlights the ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration and coordination between regional economic communities and international partners. The discussions will contribute to the ongoing work of the African Union and its partner organizations.
Key points
- The African Union and Regional Economic Communities met to discuss institutional synergies and the priorities of the Burundian Presidency.
