FM, AU representative discuss enhancing AU financial sustainability

During a meeting on Sunday, November 1, 2026, Egypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Badr Abdelatty, discussed strategies to bolster the financial sustainability of the African Union (AU) with Donald Kaberuka, the AU High Representative for Financing and the Peace Fund. The discussion centered on preparations for an Extraordinary Session of the AU Executive Council, which will convene in Accra later this month to address financing for the union.

Abdelatty highlighted the necessity of increasing the AU's financial resources and fostering self-financing mechanisms while reducing dependency on external funding sources. He stressed that these measures are crucial to preserving African decision-making autonomy and ensuring stable funding for critical initiatives such as peace, security, conflict prevention, dispute resolution, and peace support operations.

Abdelatty emphasized that securing financial resources alone is insufficient; efficient management and optimal utilization of funds are equally vital.

The Foreign Minister also advocated for comprehensive reforms within the African Union Commission, aiming to streamline its structures and eliminate redundancies. By refining spending efficiency and eliminating unnecessary mandates, resources can be better aligned with African priorities, leading to tangible outcomes. Abdelatty expressed optimism that the upcoming Executive Council session will yield practical measures to enhance financial discipline, good governance, and the long-term sustainability of the African Union's financial framework.