Burundi has officially taken the helm of the African Union (AU) as its 2026 chair, marking a pivotal moment for the East African nation during the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa. President Évariste Ndayishimiye accepted the rotating leadership from Angola's President João Lourenço on February 16, 2026, amid continental challenges ranging from security crises to climate pressures.
In his inaugural address, Ndayishimiye emphasized a commitment to collaborative governance, pledging to prioritize dialogue and unity across the 55-member bloc. "We will work impartially to amplify Africa’s voice in global affairs and foster a more equitable international system," he declared, highlighting climate resilience and economic stability as key focus areas.
Outgoing chair Lourenço praised Burundi’s unanimous selection, calling it a testament to regional confidence in Ndayishimiye’s leadership. Analysts note that Burundi’s tenure will test its ability to navigate escalating tensions in the Sahel and Horn of Africa while advancing the AU’s Agenda 2063 development framework.
The transition comes as the AU seeks to strengthen multilateral partnerships, particularly with Asian economies under China’s Belt and Road Initiative, to address infrastructure gaps and sustainable growth targets.
