Addis Ababa will host the inaugural World Public Summit Africa next week from July 29 to 30 at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) hall. The landmark Pan-African event aims to strengthen people-to-people relations across the continent and globally. Over 700 delegates—including government leaders, diplomats, academics, civil society members, and youth representatives—are expected to attend, reflecting Africa’s growing central role in global diplomacy and sustainable development.
Co-organized by the Moscow-based World Peoples Assembly alongside Global Serve and the Global Black Center, the summit focuses on fostering mutual understanding through culture, education, art, and heritage. Organizing committee head Yanina Dubeykovskaya emphasized during a press conference at the Elilly Hotel that people-to-people diplomacy serves as a powerful bridge connecting nations without conflict. Following previous international gatherings in Russia, India, and Brazil, this marks the summit’s first footprint on African soil.
The two-day conference features more than 20 panel discussions on key social, cultural, and economic topics. Rather than centering strictly on commercial trade negotiations, discussions will prioritize collaborative solutions for social development. Additionally, event organizers revealed that ten African leaders and advocates who have excelled in people-to-people diplomacy will receive formal recognition awards for their efforts.
Among the major highlights is the launch of three continent-focused initiatives, including a scientific study on the socio-economic impacts of the Zambezi River across six African nations. The summit will also feature “Unity,” a contemporary art exhibition gathering artists from 16 African nations—such as Ethiopia, Cameroon, Ghana, and Kenya—alongside Afro-Brazilian artists, highlighting cultural diversity and cross-border solidarity through creative media.
The World Peoples Assembly, founded nine years ago, connects over 3,000 member organizations across 150 countries. Organizers confirmed that following the Addis Ababa session, the next global assembly will take place in Moscow, continuing a year-round cycle of international cooperation.