African Union summit opens as youth anger grows

The African Union holds its annual summit in Addis Ababa amid growing youth frustration that the bloc prioritizes long-serving leaders over citizens, and the meeting's theme is water and sanitation.

The African Union holds its annual summit in Addis Ababa this weekend. The meeting comes as many young people across the continent express frustration with the AU's focus on national leaders rather than citizens. Africa has over 400 million people aged 15 to 35, and observers link youth discontent to contested elections, coups and economic strain in several countries. The summit's theme is water and sanitation and will include discussions on climate and humanitarian responses. Key points: - The AU summit is taking place in Addis Ababa and focuses on water and sanitation. - Many young Africans view the AU as a "bloc of old leaders" and feel their interests are not prioritized. - Africa has more than 400 million people aged 15–35 and a rapidly growing young population. - The AU has been criticised for weak enforcement of resolutions and for appearing slow to call out flawed election processes. - Recent developments across the continent include military coups, disputed elections and protests, and some international aid cuts have affected humanitarian responses. Summary: The summit highlights tensions between the AU and many young citizens who say the organisation has prioritised leaders over people. Leaders will discuss water, sanitation, climate and humanitarian issues and seek alignment with international partners. The impact on the AU's standing with youth and on member-state accountability remains to be seen. Undetermined at this time.