African leaders have welcomed the New Year with strong calls for peace, unity, and resilience, addressing pressing national and regional challenges while expressing optimism for progress and stability in 2025.

African leaders marked the New Year with appeals for peace, unity, and progress amid ongoing regional and domestic challenges. Many highlighted their efforts to address economic, security, and social issues while expressing optimism for a cooperative and stable 2025.

Kenya’s President William Ruto reflected on 2024’s economic and climatic challenges, emphasizing government initiatives to bolster food security, enhance agricultural productivity, and digitize public services. He also called for broader African peace efforts.

In South Sudan, President Salva Kiir Mayardit urged commitment to the Tumaini Initiative peace negotiations, advocating for compromise and unity over political divisions.

Niger’s transitional President General Abdourahamane Tchiani highlighted the establishment of the Confederation Alliance of Sahel States, reaffirming a commitment to good relations and vigilance against external influences. Burkina Faso’s transitional leader, Captain Ibrahim Traore, expressed hope for the alliance to become a beacon of peace and sovereignty.

Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema underscored the importance of democratic dialogue and diversity of opinion, while Namibia’s President Nangolo Mbumba reaffirmed his nation’s dedication to justice, solidarity, and diplomatic conflict resolution.

Botswana’s President Duma Boko, celebrating his first New Year in office, called for an end to gender-based violence and encouraged compassion among citizens.

This unified focus on peace, cooperation, and resilience reflects the shared aspirations of African leaders to navigate the challenges of 2025 and beyond.