The upcoming summit of the African Union (AU) heads of state and government will take place on February 14, 2026, in Addis Ababa. In preparation, foreign ministers from member countries met on Wednesday and Thursday, during which the AU Peace and Security Council held a meeting focusing specifically on Sudan and Somalia amidst ongoing conflict in the region. In Sudan, the conflict has led to significant civilian casualties, particularly in El Fasher, where forces loyal to General Hemedti are responsible for numerous deaths. Despite the grim situation, some member nations are advocating for Sudan's official reintegration into the AU, a stance that has sparked considerable debate among member states.

Egypt currently holds the rotating presidency of the AU Peace and Security Council, with Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty actively supporting Sudan's return to the pan-African organization. The differing opinions on this issue illustrate the complexities surrounding Sudan's political landscape and the AU's role in addressing regional instability. The push for reintegration reflects a broader desire from certain countries to stabilize the region and foster collaborative solutions to ongoing crises, despite the challenges posed by the prevailing violence.

The debate over Sudan's reintegration into the AU not only highlights the immediate political challenges but also raises important questions about the AU's effectiveness in managing conflicts within its member states. As the summit approaches, the resolution of Sudan's status will be closely watched, with implications for the future of the AU's peace initiatives and regional cooperation. It's a critical moment that could define the AU's approach to governance and conflict resolution across the continent.