MALABO: Leaders of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States have called for sweeping reforms to strengthen the bloc’s effectiveness in addressing global challenges, including conflict, economic pressures and climate change.
The call came at the group’s 11th summit of heads of state and government, held in Malabo, where delegates stressed the need to modernise institutions and improve financial sustainability.
Tanzania’s Vice-President, Emmanuel Nchimbi, attended the meeting on behalf of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, underlining the country’s continued engagement in multilateral cooperation and development dialogue.
Leaders said timely financial contributions from member states were critical to ensuring the organisation’s independence and operational capacity. They also highlighted the importance of investing in human capital, innovation and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to strengthen decision-making and policy implementation.
The summit’s discussions reflected growing concern over the ability of multilateral institutions to respond effectively to complex global issues. Delegates pointed to the need for stronger coordination among member states and closer collaboration with other regional blocs.
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There was also a focus on boosting trade within member countries, with leaders urging measures to promote intra-regional commerce and reduce reliance on external markets. Expanding economic opportunities for young people and women was highlighted as a priority for long-term growth and social stability.
During the meeting, Angola’s President, João Lourenço, handed over the rotating chairmanship of the organisation to Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo.
The OACPS brings together 79 countries from Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific. Originally formed in the 1970s as the ACP Group, it was established to promote economic and political cooperation among countries with shared historical ties. Its legal framework was set out in the Georgetown Agreement of 1975, and the organisation was rebranded as the OACPS in 2020.
This year’s summit was held under the theme “A Transformed and Renewed OACPS at the Service of an Inclusive, Sustainable and Trust-Based Multilateralism”, signalling a push to reposition the bloc in a rapidly changing global landscape.
Analysts say the reform agenda reflects a broader effort by developing nations to strengthen their collective voice in international affairs, particularly on issues such as climate finance, trade and global governance.
No specific timeline for the proposed reforms was announced, but leaders indicated that follow-up discussions and implementation frameworks would be developed in the coming months.
