The African Union Summit for 2026 is being held in Addis Ababa, with Angola transferring the rotating chair to Burundi. This summit comes at a time when the African continent is grappling with various critical issues, including escalating conflicts in multiple regions, growing insecurity particularly in the Sahel, and deteriorating diplomatic relations with the United States. The summit will emphasize the theme of water, highlighting the impact of climate extremes such as recent devastating floods, which have further exacerbated the challenges faced by member states.

The summit, taking place on February 14 and 15, will see African heads of state and government gather to deliberate on pressing issues affecting the continent. The transition of leadership from Angola to Burundi, represented by President Évariste Ndayishimiye, marks a significant change in the AU's leadership structure for 2026. In light of the numerous tensions and security threats in member countries, the discussions are expected to focus on strategies to mitigate conflict and restore stability across the region.

Moreover, this year's emphasis on water as a vital natural resource underscores the urgent need for cooperative management among African nations. The AU Commission's chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has articulated the critical significance of water management not only as a response to natural disasters but also as an essential component for sustainable development. As the summit progresses, it is anticipated that member states will forge collaborative initiatives that address both the immediate impacts of climate change and long-term strategies for resource management.