The African Union (AU) has convened an emergency summit in Addis Ababa to address rising security threats across the continent. Leaders from over 40 African countries gathered to discuss strategies for combating terrorism, cross-border crime, and political instability. The meeting comes amid a recent surge in armed attacks in the Sahel and Horn of Africa regions.

AU Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat emphasized the importance of collective action, saying that no African nation can tackle these threats alone. Delegates discussed strengthening intelligence sharing, deploying joint peacekeeping forces, and investing in community-based security programs.

One of the key topics was the growing role of technology in modern warfare. Cybersecurity experts briefed leaders on how extremist groups are using social media for recruitment and coordination. The AU plans to set up a continental cybersecurity task force.

The summit also explored ways to engage youth in peace-building initiatives, recognizing that unemployment and social exclusion often push young people toward criminal activities. Development funding for education and skills training was proposed as a long-term solution.

The meeting concluded with a pledge to increase funding for security programs and create a coordinated response mechanism to handle future crises more effectively.