"Blue Africa," Youth, and Business Diplomacy Became Key Topics of the Second Plenary Session of the World Public Summit: Africa
The second plenary session of the World Public Summit: Africa "New World: Africa in Shaping a Common Future," held under the auspices of the World Peoples Assembly, took place at the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) in Addis Ababa on July 30, 2026.
Participants discussed the preservation of African heritage, the role of youth in shaping a common future, the special significance of island states in the new world order, the impact of unilateral sanctions on humanity, as well as the contribution of business associations to building a fair economic system.
A ceremonial highlight of the session was the presentation of the first Representative Office of the World Peoples Assembly in Africa, with Zambia chosen as its host country. Mabvuto Tembo Chipata, Executive Director of the Her Voice Foundation (Zambia), noted:
- The decision to establish the first office in Zambia shows that the country can further promote the goals of the World Peoples Assembly. Moreover, in Zambia we have already registered five members of the organization.
According to him, the new office will be part of a long‑term strategy to transition from resource dependence to technological development of the continent:
- We believe that Africa can transform from a region dependent on natural resources into a hub for economic development, technology, and a bright future for our youth.
Madi Bolero Hamada, Prime Minister (2000–2002) of the Union of the Comoros, in his address spoke about the concept of "Blue Africa," emphasizing the role of island states in the world.
- On paper, we are the periphery, but history tells a different story. We are that part of Africa that was first introduced to the world; our ports were Africa's gateway to Asia and Europe. Therefore, we are not a geographical periphery – we are the link connecting Africa with the world.
In the speaker's view, the 21st century should become a time of flourishing for maritime Africa through the development of the "blue economy" – sustainable use of ocean, sea, and coastal resources, protecting islands from climate shocks, and developing transport and digital connectivity between islands and the mainland.
- 'Blue Africa' is the third pillar of our common future. If the 20th century was the century of Africa's savannahs and forests, then the 21st century must become the century of 'Blue Africa'.
In the economic segment of the session, a representative of the Addis Ababa Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Associations of Ethiopia spoke about the role of business associations in shaping a just world order.
- Business associations play an important role in promoting economic development, good governance, and sustainable business practices. Their influence goes beyond representing business interests and contributes to the formation of a more just and inclusive world order.
According to him, strengthening institutional capacity, expanding the participation of women, youth, and small and medium‑sized enterprises, as well as promoting ESG standards, can significantly enhance their contribution to the global agenda.
Tariku Negash, founder of Serve Global (Ethiopia), spoke about the internal and external pressures faced by African youth:
- Youth is a period of important questions, constant dynamism, and openness to the new. The question arises: who is directing this bubbling stream and where?
The expert called on young people to abandon the "dream of somewhere else" and build sovereignty through respect for their own culture:
- The real challenge for African youth is to be themselves, to respect their culture, their style of dress, their food, their language. Without this, we cannot speak of Africa's sovereignty.
The concluding remarks of the second plenary session were delivered by Ambassador Amr Aljowaily, Director of the Citizens and Diaspora Affairs Directorate (CIDO) of the African Union Commission, in his video address. He reminded that Africa does not come to the global table empty‑handed:
- When Africa takes its seat at the global table, it brings three gifts: its memory, its youth, its values. Africa is the cradle of humanity and the guardian of a heritage belonging to all peoples. Cherish memory, trust the youth, and respect values – and the new world will be built by Africa standing shoulder to shoulder with humanity.
The materials from the plenary sessions will be used in preparation for the Second World Public Assembly "New World: Values That Unite," which will be held in Moscow on September 18–19, 2026.
For additional information, please visit the official websites of the World Public Summits and the World Peoples Assembly, or contact media@world-assembly.org.