The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has called for stronger investment in infrastructure, energy, and regional integration as key drivers of Africa’s long-term economic transformation.
Speaking during the opening session of the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi on Tuesday, Youssouf joined William Ruto, Emmanuel Macron, and António Guterres in discussions focused on Africa’s development agenda and global partnerships.
In his keynote address, the AU Commission Chairperson commended the government and people of Kenya for hosting the summit, describing the gathering as timely and reflective of a shared commitment to advancing the continent’s growth and prosperity.
Youssouf noted that Africa possesses enormous natural resources and a rapidly growing youthful population, which he described as major assets capable of driving the continent’s transformation and future economic success.
He identified energy as a critical pillar for economic competitiveness and sustainable development, stressing that Africa’s industrial and economic ambitions would require predictable and long-term capital investment, much of which, he said, already exists within the continent.
The AU Commission Chair also warned that illicit financial flows continue to weaken Africa’s development efforts by depriving countries of resources needed for investment, infrastructure, and economic expansion.
According to him, infrastructure development remains central to regional integration, stronger supply and value chains, and the full realization of Africa’s economic potential under continental integration initiatives.
Echoing remarks made earlier by President Ruto, Youssouf emphasized that Africa’s progress must be built on policy coordination, collective action, and sustained commitment from member states. He added that peace and security remain essential foundations for development and prosperity across the continent.
He concluded by expressing optimism about Africa’s future, stating that the continent is positioned to emerge as a major global growth powerhouse in the coming decades.
