During the inauguration of the renovated Africa Hall in Addis Ababa, Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the historical and symbolic significance of the building for Africa’s unity and progress.
Guterres acknowledged the continent’s transformation from its early days of independence to the present, stating that the hall is where Africa came together to establish the Organization of African Unity, now known as the African Union. He also saw it as a call for cooperation towards a better future for both Africa and the world.
While celebrating Africa’s potential and hope, Guterres also acknowledged the challenges the continent still faces, including climate change, conflict, and poverty, which are exacerbated by historical inequalities.
Furthermore, he called for the reform of outdated global institutions, particularly highlighting the absence of a permanent African seat on the UN Security Council. He expressed hope for this to be corrected soon, as there is now a consensus among all Member States for the inclusion of two permanent African members on the Security Council.
Guterres also stressed the importance of the recently adopted Pact for the Future, which addresses the need for reform in the Security Council and international financial architecture. He emphasized the need for effective, fair, and inclusive global institutions in order to move forward.
He also mentioned the Global Digital Compact, which includes the first universal agreement on the governance of Artificial Intelligence. This compact aims to give every country a voice in decision-making and support partnerships to bridge the digital divide and build AI capacity in developing countries, particularly in Africa.
Guterres concluded by urging for the prompt implementation of these historic agreements, reaffirming the UN’s commitment to promoting peace, unity, and prosperity for Africa and the world.