The urgency reflects a global reality, that the UN runs the risk of losing relevance against current polygrisis, from discarded contempt by international standards and endless conflicts to fugitive climate disasters and crushing debt loads.
The leaders of Africa based their appeals on the experience lived, describing constant struggles with extremely fragile economies, recurring droughts, youth populations of opportunities and the persistent imbalance of power within international institutions.
On Thursday, the general message was clear: without reform, the promise of the UN letter cannot be fulfilled, and the weak nations cannot serve “we peoples”.
Guinea-Bissau: We are the same
President Umaro Sissoco Packed by Guinea-Bissau addresses the general debate of the 80th session of the General Assembly.
President Umaro Sissoco Packed by Guinea-Bissau emphasized the UN Single role as a forum where all nations, large or small, can speak as the same.
He described a world harassed by the conflict, inequality and stagnant development, pointing out that UN agencies, from the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to the World Food Program (PMA), maintain hope and dignity, but cannot succeed without a systemic reform.
He asked that the Security Council expand, democratize and offer a genuine place for the global south, arguing that faith in multilateralism can only be rebuilt if developing nations see their voices that shape decisions. In his words:
“The legitimacy, strength and future of the UN are found in the inclusion and full participation of all of us in deliberations and decision making.”
â–¶ Observe the address.
Gambia: assaults its responsibilities
Vice President Muhammed Jallow of Gambia addresses the general debate of the 80th session of the General Assembly.
From West Africa, Vice President Muhammed Jallow emphasized the search for Gambia for inclusive development, peace and respect for fundamental freedoms.
He highlighted the vulnerability of countries in the global south to external shocks, from food and energy crises to debt and unemployment pressures, and urged international associations that prioritize resilience in food safety, infrastructure and implementation of sustainable development objectives (SDG).
Regarding international peace and security, he emphasized: “We call on the UN Security Council that fulfills its responsibility to resolve disturbances in Africa and elsewhere.”
â–¶ Observe the address.
Ethiopia: There are no shortcuts to true justice
President Taye Atsesselassie Amde de Ethiopia addresses the general debate of the 80th session of the General Assembly.
The president of Ethiopia, Taye Atskeselasie Amde, made a forceful call to the reform, stating that the UN must overcome the “systemic problems”, including the lack of impartiality, selectivity and double standard.
He warned that military accumulations, isolationist policies and development withdrawal and climatic commitments represent global threats that undermine peace among nations.
Although Ethiopia has achieved important national development milestones, Mr. Amde warned that these successes will not mask systemic barriers, such as overwhelming debt, coercive trade measures and the absence of Africa of decision making in the Security Council.
“There is no jam or half solution to this long search for justice,” he said, pressing for the cancellation of debt and the total inclusion of Africa in global governance.
â–¶ Observe the address.
South Sudan: We are all better together
Vice President Josephine Joseph Lagu in South Sudan addresses the general debate of the 80th session of the General Assembly.
Vice President Josephine Joseph Lagu spoke from the perspective of a young nation that still dealt with internal fragility.
He framed the struggles of South Sudan within the broader failure of the international community to support the recovery after conflict, emphasizing peace, humanitarian relief and space to consolidate institutions without improper interference.
He requested a stronger commitment to African solutions, arguing that the UN credibility depends on supporting the most vulnerable.
“We all know that it is better together. It is better together for us nationwide, it is better together for us worldwide,” he said.
â–¶ Observe the address.
Botswana: Listen to the voice of Africa
President Duma Gideon Boko de Botswana addresses the general debate of the 80th session of the General Assembly.
President Duma Gideon Boko de Botswana delivered a message rooted in both gratitude and calling action, recognizing the founding vision of the UN and emphasizing the continuous inequalities of the continent.
It was based on Botswana’s experience to use diamond richness to finance schools and hospitals, highlighted the fragility of resources dependence and the need for global associations in renewable energy, technology and sustainable agriculture. For semi -arid nations, such as Botswana, he warned, climate change is a current reality.
President Boko’s strongest plea referred to UN reform: “The voice of Africa is not heard.”
He demanded a permanent security council, arguing that without him, the UN cannot affirm that it is truly universal.
â–¶ Observe the address.