Geingob wants AU Commission strengthened

President Hage Geingob has reaffirmed Namibia&#039;s commitment to a stronger and more effective African Union (AU) while also emphasising the need to strengthen the role of the chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC).Geingob said this in a statement released to observe African Union Day, which is commemorated on 9 September each year.Commemorated under this year&#039;s theme &#039;Accelerating the Implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area", the 55-member continental bloc continues to pursue its goal to unlock the continent’s economic potential as well as cement peace and security."The current situation whereby a head of state and government becomes chair of the African Union, assuming a bigger representative role for Africa, results in a situation that undermines the efficacy of the Office of the Chairperson of the AUC," he said.Geingob further noted: "Whilst the European Union has a similar architecture of a rotating six-month EU presidency for a head of state and government as opposed to one year for the African Union, H.E. Charles Michel as the EU Council president and H.E. Ursula von der Leyen as EU Commission president both enjoy a wider scope of role recognition, representation and execution."&#039;Silence the guns&#039;In light of recent military takeovers on the continent, which led to the removal of presidents in Niger and Gabon, Geingob reminded Africans that only when the guns fall silent can Africa truly achieve its full potential."The mandate of the African Union is transformational. However, there have been democratic reversals with the rise of coups and unconstitutional forms of government. Whenever these happen, it is us Africans (and not others) who have been consistently first to condemn, as regional organisations and African leaders under the African Union. We can only achieve our true potential when we silence the guns," Geingob said.He further highlighted the formation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA), which came into effect in 2019, which presents "considerable opportunities for accelerating intra-African trade, using trade more effectively to transform the continent into a global powerhouse, and realising Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.”He added: "We are encouraged that there has been an increase in intra-African trade and investment, fostering economic cooperation among member states.”The Namibian head of state said: "This day therefore signifies our profound commitment to the ideals of unity, regional integration, and progress among African nations. Alongside member states, Namibia stands united in celebration of our continent&#039;s rich history, diverse cultures and shared dreams for a better future. This celebration not only honours our past but also reaffirms our commitment to building a brighter future."In addition, Geingob affirmed Namibia&#039;s "unwavering commitment to the African Union" and further reiterated the country&#039;s mission to "promote peace, security and development" on the continent.

Geingob wants AU Commission strengthened

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Namibian Sun 2025-06-18

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Geingob wants AU Commission strengthened

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Namibian Sun 2025-06-18

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