Johannesburg, 2–3 July 2026 – African policymakers, scholars, civil society representatives and international affairs experts gathered at the University of the Witwatersrand for a roundtable discussion on “African Agency in a Shifting Global Order: African Priorities on the Reform of the Multilateral System.” In the context of a shifting geopolitical dynamics, Africa needs to revive its agency in order to contribute towards reviving the principles of international cooperation and shaping the future of multilateralism.

The two-day roundtable, convened by University of Witwatersrand in partnership with the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation (IJR) and the Institute for Global Dialogue, examined Africa’s role in shaping reforms to the global governance system amid growing geopolitical competition, weakening multilateral cooperation and calls for reform of institutions such as the United Nations and global financial architecture.

Opening remarks were delivered by Dr Elijah Masubelele, Deputy Executive Director of the IJR, who highlighted the importance of strengthening African voices and agency in global decision-making processes. Representing IJR throughout the discussions, Prof Tim Murithi contributed to reflections on African strategic priorities in supporting the invoking of Article 109 to convene a General Conference to Review the United Nations Charter, as a pathway for designing a renewed multilateral system and enabling the evolution of global governance frameworks.

Participants reflected on the need for Africa to move beyond being a recipient of global norms and become a more active shaper of international agendas, institutions and policy frameworks. Discussions focused on strengthening Africa’s collective bargaining power, advancing the transformation of the UN Security Council, and the global financial architecture and ensuring greater representation in international financial decision-making.

A key theme was the urgency of translating Africa’s political, economic and demographic weight into coordinated action. Participants noted that while external powers increasingly compete for influence on the continent, African priorities must remain central to international partnerships and negotiations.

The roundtable also explored opportunities arising from ongoing multilateral reform processes, including the implementation of the UN Pact for the Future, Action Point 39 which calls historical redress for Africa’s exclusion from the design of the multilateral system, which is in line with the aspirations of Agenda 2063. Discussions examined how African states, regional institutions, think tanks and civil society can collaborate to lead on a UN Charter Review process, by invoking Article 109, to promote more inclusive and equitable global governance.

Sessions addressed critical issues including Africa’s engagement with global powers and strengthening the capacity of the African Union to project continental priorities.

The meeting forms part of broader efforts to develop African perspectives and policy recommendations to inform ongoing efforts to transform the multilateral system. Participants emphasised that Africa’s future influence in global affairs will depend on proactive strategy, stronger coordination and sustained advocacy to ensure the continent plays a meaningful role in shaping the emerging international order.