12 Feb 2025

President Duma Gideon Boko is expected to depart for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Thursday, to participate in the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU).

A press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the summit scheduled for February 15 to 16, will focus on the theme: Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations.

It underscores the AU’s commitment to addressing historical injustices stemming from colonialism, enslavement and apartheid as well as their lasting impact on Africans and the people of African descent.

The release states that a key component of the summit will be the election of senior leadership within the AU Commission, including the chairperson and deputy chairperson.

During the summit, President Boko will engage in high-level discussions with fellow African leaders and participate in the 34th African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Forum of Heads of State and Government, where governance and economic development issues will be discussed.

Additionally, the release says he will attend the G20 High-Level Meeting, which aims to strengthen Africa’s role in global economic decision-making.

President Boko is scheduled to take part in the Africa Business Forum 2025, a key gathering of political and business leaders focused on advancing trade and investment across the continent, says the release and added that he will also deliver remarks during the Presidential Dialogue segment, where he is expected to highlight Botswana’s economic vision and its role in Africa’s industrial and trade expansion.

Ahead of the summit, Botswana’s Minister of International Relations, Dr Phenyo Butale, will represent the country at the 46th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council from February 12 to 13.

As a member of the AU, Botswana plays an active role in shaping the continent’s future and currently serves on the AU Peace and Security Council, reinforcing its commitment to promoting stability across Africa.

President Boko will be accompanied by First Lady Kaone Boko, Minister Butale and senior government officials. The delegation is expected to return to Gaborone on February 18. ENDS