African Union Commission Chairperson Applauds President Hichilema’s Leadership and Commitment to Africa’s Development

Addis Ababa – The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E Moussa Faki Mahamat, has praised President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia as a selfless leader dedicated to improving not only the economic standards of Zambia but also the entire African continent.

Speaking during the reception of Letters of Credence from Zambia’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Her Excellency Rose Sakala, Mr. Mahamat commended President Hichilema for his recent speech at the Summit for a New Global Financing Pact in Paris. The Chairperson stated that President Hichilema’s speech had given hope to many African countries grappling with debt challenges.

Mr. Mahamat expressed his satisfaction with the regular communication he maintains with President Hichilema, particularly on key continental priorities, including the integration of Africa. He also expressed gratitude to President Hichilema for hosting the fourth Mid-Year Coordinating Meeting in July last year at the Kenneth Kaunda Wing of the Mulungushi Conference Center in Lusaka.

Recognizing Zambia’s significant role in the liberation struggle of Africa, the AUC Chairperson acknowledged the country’s historical contribution to the continent’s progress. He warmly welcomed Ambassador Rose Sakala to the African Union and assured her of the Union’s support in her new role.

Ambassador Sakala, in turn, reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to actively participating in programs and projects aimed at propelling Africa’s development for the benefit of its citizens. She emphasized President Hichilema’s belief in Africa’s continental integration programs, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and highlighted Zambia’s efforts to forge bilateral partnerships to leverage opportunities in regional value chains. She cited the joint project with the Democratic Republic of Congo to manufacture electric car batteries as an example of such collaboration.

Furthermore, Ambassador Sakala expressed Zambia’s willingness to host conferences and meetings of the African Union, citing the country’s state-of-the-art conference facilities and supporting infrastructure. She applauded the Union’s efforts in promoting peace and security on the continent, emphasizing the importance of upholding the values espoused by the founding fathers of the African Union.

The reception of Letters of Credence was marked by mutual appreciation and a shared commitment to advancing Africa’s development agenda. The African Union Commission looks forward to working closely with Ambassador Sakala and Zambia in achieving the Union’s goals and objectives for the betterment of the African continent.