African Union: voice of a fractured continent of 1.5 billion people

Africa has often been sidelined on the global stage. To change that,the African states came together to form the African Union IN 2002, replacing the Organization of African Unity. With 55 countries and 1.5 billion people, the AU’s goal was clear: to have a stronger voice in global affairs. For too long, Africa had been ignored in international decision-making bodies, like the United Nations, dominated by Western nations.

A big reason for this lack of influence? Conflict. Ongoing issues like the civil war in Sudan, piracy off Somalia's coast, and violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo have made it hard for African nations to unite and have a say in world matters. But the African Union is changing that narrative.

In recent years, Africa has become more than just a continent of grasslands and deserts. It’s now seen as a growing hub of opportunities. In 2023, the African Union reached a huge milestone when it became a permanent member of the G20 under India's presidency. This recognition shows that Africa’s influence is rising. And in early 2025, Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf was elected Chairman of the AU, giving the Union fresh energy and drive toward greater unity and global representation.

In 2013, the African Union laid out a roadmap for the continent’s future, known as Agenda 2063. This ambitious plan focuses on tackling Africa’s toughest challenges, from ending wars to developing infrastructure and promoting free movement within the continent. Another important step was the creation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCTA), the world’s largest free trade pact involving the most countries. This agreement is expected to increase trade within Africa and unlock new economic opportunities.

However, the road to success is not without its challenges. Critics argue that the AfCTA faces significant hurdles, such as protectionist policies and poor transport infrastructure between countries. Furthermore, the AU has struggled to implement its grand vision from Agenda 2063. W Gyude Moore, a former Liberian public works minister, pointed out that many African nations are burdened with debt and are focused on paying off foreign loans, distracting them from their long-term goals.

Another pressing issue is Africa’s transport system. While Agenda 2063 emphasizes modern infrastructure like high-speed rail, roads remain the main mode of transport, carrying 80% of goods and 90% of passengers in Africa. The lack of proper roads, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, has caused isolation and limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

Despite these struggles, the African Union is determined to continue fighting for a unified, prosperous Africa. The path may be tough, but the AU’s ambition to turn Africa’s vision into reality is more alive than ever.