João Lourenço Hands Over AU Chairmanship to Burundi’s Ndayishimiye

Angolan President João Lourenço formally handed over the Chairmanship of the African Union (AU) to
Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye during the 39th AU Ordinary Session of Heads of State and
Government in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The handover ceremony took place on 14—15 of February 2026, following the conclusion of the two-
day summit that brought together leaders from across the continent under the theme “Assuring
Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063.”
President Lourenço, whose term as AU Chair commenced in 2025, highlighted Africa’s collective efforts
on peace, security, sustainable development and economic integration during his tenure.
In his remarks, he reaffirmed the importance of unity and cooperation, noting progress in AU initiatives
ranging from conflict resolution to climate resilience.

At the official handover, Évariste Ndayishimiye, who becomes the new Chairperson of the African Union,
thanked Lourenço for his leadership and pledged to build on the gains recorded under Angola’s
stewardship.
Ndayishimiye outlined priorities for his term, emphasising accelerated action on youth empowerment,
food and water security, and strengthened continental partnerships.
The transition follows standard African Union protocol, where the Chairmanship rotates annually among
member states.

Ndayishimiye now assumes the role for 2026–2027, at a time when the AU is seeking to drive collective
action on development goals and enhance Africa’s voice in global platforms.
The summit, attended by dozens of African heads of state and officials, concluded with calls for
strengthened collaboration on Africa’s strategic priorities, reflecting shared commitments among
national leaders toward the continent’s long-term Agenda 2063 goals.

By Oyinkansola Shittu.

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