Dubai: Africa’s place in a rapidly shifting global order was framed by Taye Atske Selassie, President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, in his main address at the World Governments Summit, where he called for renewed trust, genuine partnerships, and bold investment to unlock the continent’s potential. President Selassie opened by expressing deep appreciation to the UAE leadership for convening global decision-makers to shape a better future.
According to Emirates News Agency, President Selassie acknowledged the efforts of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for facilitating a platform where leaders can tackle contemporary challenges and aspirations. The President warned that geopolitical power shifts and the erosion of trust in multilateral systems are creating heightened uncertainty, particularly for the Global South and Africa. He described the current era as a ‘defining moment of introspection,’ where disruptive change is challenging established orders but also opening unprecedented opportunities.
President Taye emphasized that innovation in renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and digital finance provides Africa with tools to overcome developmental hurdles. A key component of his address was Africa’s economic integration, highlighting the transformative promise of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which consolidates a market of 1.3 billion people with a collective GDP exceeding US$3.4 trillion.
The President outlined Ethiopia’s strategic priorities, focusing on energy, agriculture, and air connectivity. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is a crucial element in generating over 6,000 megawatts of clean power. The second focus is on value-added agricultural exports, including wheat and premium coffee. The third pillar is air connectivity, with Ethiopia constructing a US$12.5 billion international airport to handle significant passenger and cargo volumes.
Despite these plans, President Taye acknowledged challenges, particularly in financing infrastructure projects. He noted that Ethiopia is working to strengthen financial institutions and expand public-private partnerships to bridge the capital gap. Concluding his address, he called for a new era of trust and cooperation, emphasizing Africa’s readiness for genuine partnership in global governance.
The World Governments Summit 2026 is witnessing its largest leadership participation, with more than 60 heads of state and government and their deputies, over 500 ministers, and representatives from more than 150 governments. Additionally, it hosts a select group of global thought leaders and experts, with more than 6,250 participants in attendance.