Africa’s Growing Voice at the 79th UNGA: Calls for Representation, Climate Action, and Global Reform The overwhelming call for UN Security Council reform echoed throughout the speeches delivered by African leaders. Many argued that the current structure, established in a post-World War II context, no longer reflects global realities.
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79th UNGA Session at United Nations Headquarter in New York
NEW YORK (UN, HQ): At the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), African leaders from across the continent delivered powerful speeches that underscored the urgency of global reform, addressing pressing issues like security, climate change, and equitable representation. This comprehensive analysis brings together key points from various African leaders’ addresses, including Prime Minister Allah Maye Halina of Chad, and highlights how Africa is pushing for a stronger voice in international decision-making.
Chad’s Prime Minister Allah Maye Halina: A Call for Global Unity
Chad’s Prime Minister Allah Maye Halina focused on the issues of terrorism, climate change, and the illegal exploitation of resources during his address. He called for more robust international cooperation to combat terrorism, particularly in the Sahel region, which continues to be destabilized by extremist groups. Halina stressed that terrorism is not just a regional issue but a global one, driven by external resources and international networks. He also emphasized the need for UN Security Council reform, stating that Africa deserves a permanent seat, as it is disproportionately affected by global decisions yet excluded from making them. His comments also touched on the need for financial support for climate adaptation, as Chad faces environmental degradation due to climate change.
African Leaders’ Push for Security Council Reform
The overwhelming call for UN Security Council reform echoed throughout the speeches delivered by African leaders. Many argued that the current structure, established in a post-World War II context, no longer reflects global realities. Faure Essozimna Gnassingbe, President of Togo, made a compelling case for a more equitable system that gives African states the respect they deserve. Zimbabwe’s Foreign Minister, Frederick Makamure Shava, added that reform is not only fair but essential for the Council’s decisions to reflect global diversity.
The African Union has long advocated for at least two permanent seats for African nations, complete with veto power, a demand that was echoed by several leaders, including ‘Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’, President of Ghana. He criticized the “incomprehensible” lack of African representation on a Council that shapes global peace and security, a sentiment also shared by Namibian President – Nangolo Mbumba. Mbumba, who co-facilitated the Summit of the Future, emphasized that multilateral institutions need to better represent the aspirations of the African continent, which is home to 1.4 billion people.
Terrorism and Instability in the Sahel: Chad and Beyond
African leaders consistently focused on the issue of terrorism and instability in regions like the Sahel. Prime Minister Halina of Chad pointed out that the roots of terrorism often stem from beyond Africa, making it a global issue that requires a global solution. The need for international collaboration to combat extremist groups was a major point of discussion, with leaders calling for increased financial and logistical support for African nations on the front lines of this struggle.
Chad, in particular, plays a critical role in the fight against terrorism, being a key player in the G5 Sahel Joint Force. Halina called on the global community to not just provide immediate military support but to tackle the underlying causes of extremism, such as poverty and resource exploitation.
Felix Tshisekedi, President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, similarly highlighted the connection between the illegal exploitation of natural resources and the funding of armed groups in the Great Lakes region.
Climate Change: An Existential Threat for Africa
While security was a major theme, climate change also featured prominently in the speeches of African leaders. Many pointed out that Africa, despite being the least responsible for global emissions, is one of the most affected by climate change. Sylvanie Burton, President of Dominica, brought attention to the existential threat posed by climate disasters, recalling how tropical storms have devastated island nations in a matter of hours. Wavel Ramkalawan, President of Seychelles, reiterated the need for climate justice, noting that while global military spending has reached $2.5 trillion, small island developing states like Seychelles face the brunt of climate change impacts.
Chad, situated in the semi-arid Sahel, has been severely affected by desertification and water scarcity. Prime Minister Halina pointed out that without urgent financial support for climate adaptation, regions like the Sahel could become even more vulnerable to instability and extremism.
The Role of Diplomacy: African Envoys and Global Engagement
In recent years, African nations have become more proactive in seeking substantial global support through diplomatic channels. Key African embassies, such as those of Chad, Gambia, Kenya, and Zimbabwe, have played instrumental roles in fostering diplomatic ties and advocating for Africa’s priorities on the international stage. These diplomatic efforts have not only increased the visibility of African issues but also placed pressure on global powers to support Africa in combating terrorism, addressing climate change, and pushing for UN reform.
India, in particular, has emerged as a key partner for several African nations, including Chad. In an interview with Her Excellency Mrs. DILLAH Lucienne, Ambassador of Chad to India, the deepening ties between the two countries were highlighted. India’s humanitarian aid, especially during crises, has strengthened this partnership. This growing relationship is symbolic of how African nations are leveraging their diplomatic relations to secure much-needed international assistance.
The African Voice at UNGA: What to Expect from Upcoming Speeches
As the UNGA enters its final days, more African leaders are expected to deliver addresses that will further amplify the continent’s demands for fair representation, climate action, and global security reform. These speeches are expected to continue the push for permanent seats on the UN Security Council and address the urgent need for climate finance to help African nations adapt to environmental challenges. The final speeches are likely to reiterate the need for a new global architecture that treats Africa not as an afterthought, but as a key player in shaping global policy.
Africa’s Growing Influence on the Global Stage
The 79th UNGA has been a stage for African leaders to assert the continent’s rightful place in global governance. From Chad’s Prime Minister calling for robust international collaboration on security and climate change, to other African leaders demanding Security Council reform, the message is clear: Africa must be part of the global decision-making process. As the world faces interconnected crises—from terrorism to climate change—Africa’s voice is not only necessary but indispensable. The time for Africa’s greater role on the global stage has arrived, and the world must listen. 
The synergy between diplomatic efforts, such as those led by African envoys in key nations like India, and the strong calls for reform at the UN, signal a turning point. Africa is no longer content with being a passive player—it is actively shaping the global agenda. As more African leaders speak at the UNGA, the international community will need to respond with concrete actions, not just rhetoric.
-Dr. Shahid Siddiqui; X @shahidsiddiqui
