South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, is leading the country’s delegation to the 46th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The meeting, scheduled for February 12-13, 2025, will address governance, security, economic development, and Africa’s role in global affairs.
A key focus of the session is “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” which will be officially launched by the AU Assembly. Throughout 2025, AU member states will assess progress in addressing injustices stemming from colonialism, apartheid, slavery, and the transatlantic slave trade.
The Executive Council will elect six commissioners to oversee AU Commission portfolios, including Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment (ARBE); Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry, and Minerals (ETTIM); Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation (ESTI); Infrastructure and Energy (I&E); Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development (HHS); and Political Affairs, Peace, and Security (PAPS). South Africa has nominated Dr. Molapo Qhobela for ESTI and Lerato Mataboge for Infrastructure and Energy. Both candidates advanced to the next round after interviews, with elections set for February 12, 2025.
The meeting also coincides with South Africa’s presidency of the G20, assumed in December 2024. Lamola will brief the council on South Africa’s priorities within the G20 and their connection to Agenda 2063, the AU’s long-term development plan.
Discussions will also cover peace and security, economic recovery, climate change, and governance. The council will review AU finances and receive updates on initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan (STYIP) for Agenda 2063.
The session takes place amid security and economic concerns, including unconstitutional changes of government, post-election violence, and the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where 14 South African soldiers were recently killed. Other topics include terrorism, food and energy insecurity, trade barriers, and Africa’s debt crisis. A July 2024 World Bank report indicated that 22 African nations face debt distress, complicating efforts to meet basic social needs such as healthcare, education, and employment.
