Sahrawi Front Polisario Attends African Political Parties Conference in Addis Ababa

A delegation from the Sahrawi Front Polisario, led by Mohamed Salem Ould Salek, minister of state and adviser to the presidency on diplomatic affairs, attended the second African political parties conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The conference, themed "Governance for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of Africa's Economic Future," took place from November 5-7, 2026. The event brought together African political actors and institutions to discuss governance, economic transformation, and development.

The Sahrawi delegation included Maalainin Lakhal, deputy permanent representative of the Sahrawi Republic to Ethiopia and the African Union. The conference gathered representatives from African political parties, government officials, continental institutions, and civil society organizations. Discussions focused on the role of political parties in shaping public policies, strengthening democratic governance, and promoting economic and social transformation in Africa.

Key issues on the conference agenda included industrialization, agricultural development, trade, job creation, infrastructure, and natural resource management. Participants also examined regional integration, peace and security, and the future of democratic institutions on the continent. The impact of technological changes, artificial intelligence, and disinformation on African political and economic systems was also addressed.

The conference aimed to adopt the Addis Ababa Declaration on political parties and economic transformation in Africa. The launch of the African Initiative for Political Parties, along with its institutional framework and future program of action, was also planned. Through its participation, the Front Polisario reaffirmed its commitment to African political and institutional spaces and its willingness to engage with other continental forces.

The Front Polisario's participation emphasized the importance of development, stability, and respect for the right of peoples to control their natural resources and determine their political and economic future. The conference provided a platform for the Sahrawi delegation to engage with other African political parties and institutions on common challenges.

The conference brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including representatives from African political parties, government officials, and civil society organizations. The event provided an opportunity for participants to share experiences, expertise, and perspectives on promoting economic growth and good governance in Africa.

The Addis Ababa conference highlighted the critical role that political parties can play in shaping Africa's economic future. The Sahrawi Front Polisario's participation demonstrated its commitment to continental cooperation and its interest in promoting economic development and good governance in Africa.

Key points

• The Sahrawi Front Polisario participated in the 2nd African political parties conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from November 5-7, 2026.