African Group at the UN Holds Strategic Retreat under Mali’s Leadership

New York, March 29-30, 2026 - Ambassadors of the African Group to the United Nations convened in New York for a high-level strategic retreat aimed at strengthening coordination and advancing the continent’s priorities within the UN system.

The meeting was chaired by Issa Konfourou, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Mali to the United Nations, who held the presidency of the African Group for the month of March. The retreat was attended by the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, as well as the Deputy Secretary-General, underscoring the significance of the gathering.

Held under the theme “Strengthening the Role of African Actors within the United Nations System: Challenges and Opportunities,” the discussions focused on enhancing Africa’s collective influence on key global issues and promoting a unified approach to the continent’s strategic interests.

In his opening remarks, Ambassador Konfourou stressed the importance of Africa’s active engagement in ongoing UN reform processes. He also highlighted the need to advance resolutions that secure adequate financing for African priorities, with the goal of fostering balanced and sustainable development across the continent.

Participants emphasized the importance of a coordinated and forward-looking African stance, particularly in view of upcoming milestones such as the selection of the next UN Secretary-General, critical budget negotiations, and broader institutional reforms.

The retreat concluded with a renewed commitment to unity and strategic alignment, reflecting what participants described as a consensus-driven leadership approach under Mali’s stewardship.