UNGA81: UN Convened the SDGs Moment, Reinvigorating Global Commitment

The United Nations (UN) General Assembly convened for the SDGs Moment on 18 September 2026, at the UN headquarters in New York, bringing together Member States, senior UN officials, and representatives of relevant stakeholders to reaffirm global commitment to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in alignment with the Africa Agenda 2063. The high-level event provided an important platform to assess progress made towards the achievement of the SDGs, highlight persistent challenges and gaps, and underscore the need for renewed political commitment, strengthened international cooperation, and accelerated action to advance implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

The African Group, together with the Permanent Observer Mission of the African Union to the UN, participated in the high-level session, reaffirming Africa's continued engagement in the global development agenda and its commitment to advancing the implementation of the SDGs, in line with the continent's development priorities and aspirations.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Khalilur Rahman, President of the 81st session of the General Assembly, emphasized the urgency of collective and concerted action to address the multiple challenges confronting sustainable development. He underscored that the SDGs constitute a shared framework and roadmap towards a more sustainable, inclusive and equitable future, and called for renewed efforts to accelerate progress towards their achievement.

President Rahman underscored the urgency of collective action, emphasizing that the SDGs are a shared roadmap towards a sustainable and equitable future. He called for a renewed effort to accelerate their implementation.

Secretary-General Guterres echoed this call, stressing the need for strengthened international cooperation and unwavering commitment to the SDGs in addressing global challenges, including climate change and inequality, and urging renewed partnerships and innovative solutions.

The event also featured contributions from civil society representatives, youth leaders, and business executives, highlighting key priorities for advancing the SDGs, including climate action, gender equality, and inclusive development. African priorities featured prominently throughout the thematic discussions, underscoring the continent's specific challenges and opportunities in advancing sustainable development. Key areas included:

1. Climate Resilience and Adaptation: African leaders called for increased support and financing for climate resilience and adaptation, particularly for vulnerable regions, given the continent's disproportionate exposure to climate impacts.

2. Economic Growth and Job Creation: Discussions emphasized sustainable economic growth through innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment, with a particular focus on expanding employment opportunities for Africa growing population.

3. Health and Well-being: African representatives underscored the importance of universal health coverage and equitable access to healthcare services. The ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic were addressed, with calls for international support to strengthen health systems.

4. Gender Equality and Empowerment: Discussions emphasized the need to empower women and girls in Africa, focusing on education, economic participation, and leadership roles. Strategies to combat gender-based violence and promote gender equality were key points of discussion.

5. Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture: The importance of food security and sustainable agricultural practices was highlighted, with calls for investment in local farming initiatives. Participants discussed the role of technology in enhancing agricultural productivity and resilience.

6. Partnerships and Collaboration: The necessity for strengthened partnerships between African nations, international organizations, and the private sector was emphasized. Collaborative efforts to share best practices and resources were deemed essential for achieving the SDGs.

SDGs Moment served as a platform to elevate African voices and concerns, reinforcing the continent's critical role in the global sustainability agenda. As nations move forward, the commitment to addressing these challenges will be vital for realizing the Agenda 2030 and the Africa continental Agenda 2063.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Mrs. Esther Azaa Tankou | Head, Media and Information Division | Information and Communication Directorate, AU Commission, and the Communication Adviser for the AU Permanent Observer Mission to the United Mission (UN) | Mobile: WhatsApp +1 (347) 812-7195 | E-mail: [email protected]