AU Applauds Hichilema’s Leadership in Water and Digital Trade
The African Union (AU) has commended President Hakainde Hichilema of the Republic of Zambia for his exceptional leadership in the areas of Water Development and Digital Trade Promotion. The recognition was officially delivered during the 47th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council, which opened on 10 July 2025 in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea.
President Hichilema’s commendation follows Zambia’s successful hosting of two major continental events in May 2025: the 3rd African Implementation and Partnership Conference on Water (PANAFCON-3) and the Digital Trade and Services Forum.
Additionally, the AU acknowledged his proactive leadership during a Roundtable Meeting in June 2025, organised by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (AfCDC), where he served in his role as AU Champion for Ending Cholera in Africa.
In a statement delivered on behalf of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, SC, MP, Minister Counselor Mr. Tom Michelo of Zambia’s Permanent Mission in Addis Ababa expressed gratitude to the AU for its recognition.
He reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to advancing the goals of Agenda 2063, the African Union’s strategic framework for inclusive and sustainable development.
President Hichilema is expected to present an implementation framework for the African Water Vision and Policy at the 39th AU Assembly in February 2026, further cementing Zambia’s role in driving continental progress in water security.
The Zambian delegation also emphasized the importance of accelerating the AU institutional reform agenda, aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the Union and its organs.
The Executive Council meeting is scheduled to conclude today, 11 July 2025, ahead of the 7th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting between the AU, Regional Economic Communities, and Regional Mechanisms on 13 July 2025.
