Africa will host the World Public Summit for the first time when global leaders, policymakers and civil society representatives convene in Addis Ababa on 29-30 July for discussions on governance, sustainable development, and international cooperation.
The summit, themed “New World: Africa in Shaping a Shared Future,” marks the World Public Summit’s inaugural African edition, reflecting the continent’s increasing influence in global policy discussions.
Hosted by the World Peoples Assembly in partnership with African and international organisations, the event will bring together government officials, diplomats, business executives, academics, journalists, youth leaders, and civil society representatives from across Africa and beyond.
Andrey Belyaninov, General Secretary of the World Peoples Assembly, stated that the summit aims to provide a platform for dialogue and collaboration on shared global challenges.
He remarked, “The future cannot be built alone. It is born in dialogue, in trust, in the ability to listen to one another and to act together.”
Ahead of the summit, organisers briefed African media on the programme. It includes high-level roundtable discussions on governance, Pan-African economic integration, education, scientific cooperation, cultural diplomacy, and humanitarian partnerships.
According to Yanina Dubeykovskaya, Head of the Organising Committee and Deputy Executive Director of the World Peoples Assembly, the event forms part of a broader initiative to strengthen collaboration among civil society organisations and humanitarian actors across different regions.
The opening plenary session, titled “Values, Development and Partnership as the Basis of a Sustainable and Just World,” will examine how African values, including Ubuntu, can contribute to global discussions on inclusive development and international cooperation.
Other sessions will focus on youth leadership, innovation, ethical artificial intelligence, public initiatives, and cross-border partnerships.
The programme also features exhibitions highlighting African innovation, contemporary art, and international cultural exchange. Participants will also discuss “The Zambezi River: Economy, Society, Soul,” an interdisciplinary initiative exploring the river’s economic, environmental, and cultural significance across six southern African countries.
The summit is expected to conclude with the adoption of an African Communiqué, outlining recommendations on international cooperation, sustainable development, and people-centred leadership.
Tsegaye Chama, General Secretary of the Global Black Center, noted that the gathering presents an opportunity to strengthen dialogue among governments, civil society, and development partners on issues affecting Africa and the wider international community.
