Africa’s future depends on securing the resources and stability that allow science, innovation, and peace to drive development, Amb. Dr Samuel Ben Owusu said at the Africa Day Leadership Summit in Accra.

A gathering of top-level diplomats, academics and civil society representatives held in Accra yesterday aimed at ensuring sustainable development, peace and integration across Africa. The event, which was part of the Organisation of African Unity/African Union's 63rd anniversary celebrations, was themed ‘Assuring Sustainable Water, Science and Technology, Peace and Security for Development'.

Attended by several dignitaries, including Lord Mensah of the Local Government Service, Deputy Commissioner of Immigration Justice Amevor, and Wazi Apoh of the University of Ghana, the summit centred on discussions revolving around Africa’s development agenda and the implementation of the African Union's Agenda 2063 framework.

Head of Missions for the Pan Africa AU Agenda 2063 Office, Samuel Ben Owusu, who chaired the summit, focused on the Accra Declaration, which outlined policy recommendations aimed at enhancing Ghana’s contribution to continental integration and peace advocacy efforts.

The summit highlighted the critical role of young people, civil society organisations and peace advocates in promoting water security, technological innovation and conflict prevention across the continent.

Organisers also announced the inauguration of a working group that will monitor the implementation of the Accra Declaration, coordinate and submit recommendations during the African Union’s next continental review.

### Key Facts

  • Date: May 25, 2026
  • Location: Accra
  • Attendees: Diplomats, academics, government officials, civil society representatives
  • Agenda: Sustainable development, peace and regional integration across Africa
  • Framework: African Union's Agenda 2063
  • Recommendations: Enhancing Ghana's contribution to continental integration and peace advocacy efforts

### Context

The Africa Day Leadership Summit in Accra was a significant gathering that brought together top-level stakeholders in a quest to discuss how to drive sustainable development, peace and integration across Africa. It formed part of the Organisation of African Unity/African Union’s 63rd anniversary celebrations, which were themed around various development issues.

This event is not only important for Ghana but also for the entire African continent, where efforts are being made to promote development, peace and integration. The gathering is a testament to the commitment of African leaders towards addressing the continent's development challenges.