Rabat: The challenges and issues facing the African continent require activating the shared political will of its countries and transforming aspirations into policies, projects, and achievements, stressed on Thursday in Rabat, the Speaker of Morocco’s House of Representatives, Rachid Talbi Alami.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, Talbi Alami emphasized the importance of taking control of the continent’s destiny to overcome pressing problems. He highlighted the prevailing uncertainty in the international order, the spread of nationalist egos, and the global power blocs as factors necessitating unity among African nations. He pointed out that extremism and terrorism thrive in poverty-stricken contexts, while separatism poses a threat to the stability of states, making a unified African nation-state historically necessary.

Talbi Alami noted that despite achievements in various fields, Africa continues to face longstanding challenges. However, he expressed optimism due to the continent’s expected growth rate of 4.3% in 2025 and over 5% in 24 African states, which suggests a promising future if obstacles can be overcome. He highlighted that while economic progress and institutional development are evident, significant challenges remain, particularly those related to conflicts and environmental issues.

Internal conflicts in African countries were underscored as a major challenge, with Talbi Alami noting that these conflicts threaten stability and are sometimes fueled by separatist tendencies. He warned that these challenges align with terrorism and violent extremism, which jeopardize stability and aim to exploit natural resources.

On the economic front, Talbi Alami pointed to the high cost of imbalances such as drought, desertification, and soil erosion. These issues exacerbate problems like poverty, malnutrition, and migration, leading to frustration and distrust in national institutions.

Despite these challenges, Talbi Alami acknowledged signs of success and institutional development at regional and continental levels. He praised the achievements of several African countries in democratic transitions, carried out independently and with citizen participation.

Highlighting Africa’s strengths, Talbi Alami mentioned the continent’s growing role in joint African action, the African Continental Free Trade Area, and regional economic groupings. He also referred to strategic initiatives such as the Atlantic African States Process and the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline project, which aim to enhance cooperation and economic exchanges across the continent.