PRESS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
New York, 22.09.25 – Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, SC, M.P., Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Zambia, has reaffirmed Africa’s collective position on the urgent and equitable reform of the United Nations Security Council.
The Minister delivered his statement on behalf of Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, at the Seventh Summit of the African Union Committee of Ten (C-10), held to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration. The Summit was opened by H.E. Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone and Coordinator of the C-10.
Hon. Haimbe underscored that the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration stand as a testament to Africa’s unwavering commitment to global peace, security, and the principles of justice and fairness within the international system. He emphasized that these historic instruments, adopted by the African Union in 2005, remain the definitive framework for Africa’s engagement on this critical issue.
These instruments underscore the continent’s firm stance on expanding both permanent and non-permanent membership of the Security Council to better reflect the geopolitical realities of the 21st century and to ensure Africa’s rightful representation and influence in matters of international peace and security.
Hon. Haimbe highlighted that the Common African Position is not a request for a favour but a matter of historical justice, sovereign equality, and global legitimacy. He noted that Africa’s 54 Member States represent more than a quarter of the UN membership yet remain without a permanent voice on the Council.
The Minister called for a renewed unity of purpose and a heightened sense of urgency, adding that the Ezulwini Consensus must be guarded jealously, promoted actively, and implemented strategically.
The Summit brought together C-10 Member States: Algeria, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Kenya, Libya, Namibia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Uganda, and Zambia.
At the close of the Summit, members adopted a Communiqué reaffirming their commitment to the principles and demands set forth in the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration. These demands include the allocation to Africa of no fewer than two permanent seats, with all the prerogatives and privileges of permanent membership, including the right of veto, as well as two additional non-permanent seats.
The members also recognized that Africa remains the only continent without permanent representation in the Security Council, despite the Council’s agenda disproportionately focusing on issues concerning the continent.
Issued by:
Namatama Njekwa
First Secretary for Press and Public Relations
Permanent Mission of the Republic of Zambia to the United Nations
