The 11th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS) opened on Saturday with Secretary-General Moussa Batraki urging the bloc to strengthen its global role and take action on shared challenges.
Speaking at the opening at the Sipopo International Conference Centre, Batraki told leaders the organisation must move beyond reaction and take a more proactive stance as it marks 50 years since its founding.
“This half-century of history is not just an achievement to celebrate; above all, it is a responsibility to uphold,” he emphasised.
Batraki said the OACPS, which brings together 79 countries, is at a turning point amid global geopolitical, climate and technological shifts. He outlined four key priorities to reshape the organisation.
On political relevance, he called for a stronger collective voice on the global stage, urging members to act together in defending their interests.
He said the organisation must project “a united voice of the South” in major international forums.
On partnerships, Batraki pushed for more practical cooperation and new alliances, moving away from traditional models to more effective and balanced arrangements.
He stressed the need to shift from formal cooperation to real outcomes through stronger South-South and triangular partnerships.
Batraki also highlighted the need to bring communities into decision-making, particularly women, youth and the private sector.
He said these groups are critical to driving inclusive growth and delivering results in areas such as food security, energy transition, climate resilience and social inclusion.
On technology, he called for the “smart integration” of digital tools and innovation to help member states respond to rapid global changes and support development.
Batraki also acknowledged the role of Equatorial Guinea’s President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, thanking him “for his unwavering support and enlightened leadership” in hosting the summit.
He also urged leaders to use the summit to reset the organisation’s direction.
“This Malabo Summit should not be seen as an end in itself, but rather as an opportunity for a new beginning,” the Secretary-General said.
Leaders are now expected to turn these priorities into concrete actions as the summit continues.
