Lesotho Embassy in Ethiopia Ready for African Union Summit 2026

The Lesotho Embassy in Ethiopia has confirmed that it is fully prepared for the country’s participation in the African Union Summit set to take place from 11 to 15 February 2026. The summit will bring together heads of state, ministers and senior officials from across the continent to deliberate on Africa’s development priorities. Lesotho’s delegation is expected to play an active role in discussions that touch on health, nutrition and child survival. The embassy has intensified its coordination efforts to ensure that all logistical and diplomatic arrangements are in place ahead of the high level gathering. This preparation reflects Lesotho’s commitment to maintaining a strong presence within the African Union and contributing meaningfully to continental policy debates.

Final planning sessions brought together key representatives tasked with advancing Lesotho’s agenda at both continental and global platforms. Her Excellency Ntšiuoa Sekete, Permanent Representative of Lesotho to the African Union, worked closely with His Excellency Matete ‘Nena, Permanent Representative of Lesotho to the United Nations, alongside a technical team of experts. Their discussions focused on aligning Lesotho’s positions on nutrition and child survival with broader African Union frameworks and international commitments. The team reviewed priority areas, clarified speaking points and ensured policy coherence across different forums. This coordinated approach aims to strengthen Lesotho’s voice and influence during the summit engagements.

Lesotho’s participation strongly aligns with the ongoing advocacy of His Majesty King Letsie III, who serves as the African Union Champion for Nutrition. The King has consistently called for stronger political leadership and practical partnerships to address malnutrition and improve child health outcomes across Africa. Data from global health agencies shows that malnutrition contributes to nearly half of all deaths among children under five, underlining the urgency of sustained action. Through this advocacy role, Lesotho continues to push for integrated strategies that combine health services, food security and social protection measures. The country’s summit engagement will reinforce these priorities and encourage member states to adopt measurable and accountable commitments.

The preparatory meeting was chaired by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Relations Principal Secretary, Mr Thabang Lekhela. His leadership ensured that diplomatic, technical and policy elements were aligned before the delegation’s departure for the summit. Officials emphasized the need for clear messaging and strategic networking with other African Union member states and development partners. By sharpening its focus on nutrition and child survival, Lesotho positions itself as a proactive contributor to Africa’s sustainable development agenda. The embassy’s readiness signals that Lesotho intends to use the African Union Summit 2026 as a platform to advance practical solutions that can deliver lasting impact for children and communities across the continent.