Adeoye visit signals deeper AU–Australia engagement

The visit, undertaken through Australia’s Special Visits Program, was initially planned for February but was postponed following the outbreak of the Persian Gulf crisis. Preparatory discussions had started in late 2025 and helped shape an agenda that extended beyond security to wider political, economic and development issues.

Counterterrorism remained a key priority. Adeoye and his Australian counterparts discussed approaches to tackling terrorism and other evolving security threats, with both sides benefiting from an exchange of institutional and operational perspectives.

The discussions come at an important time for the African Union, which is strengthening its continental mechanisms for addressing terrorism. The operationalisation of the AU Peace and Security Council Sub-Committee on Counterterrorism and adoption of the Continental Strategic Plan of Action on Combating Terrorism in Africa are among the steps aimed at improving the Union’s response to the threat.

However, the Australian programme also provided an opportunity to examine the wider relationship between Canberra and the African Union.

For Africa, stronger engagement with Australia could contribute to the diversification of international partnerships at a time when the continent is seeking greater agency in determining its development and security priorities.

Australia, for its part, has increasingly recognised the strategic and economic importance of Africa. Its traditional foreign policy emphasis on the Indo-Pacific has not prevented it from expanding diplomatic, commercial and institutional engagement with African countries and continental bodies.

Economic interests are an important part of this shift. Africa’s substantial deposits of critical minerals, growing energy markets and expanding consumer economies present opportunities for Australian investment and trade.

The peace and security dimension is equally important. Sustainable development, employment, stronger institutions and economic resilience can contribute to addressing some of the conditions that allow instability and violent extremism to take root.

The Africa Down Under conference, held in Perth from September 2–4, 2026, underscored the growing importance of Australia–Africa economic relations, particularly in mining and energy.

A memorandum of understanding signed in June 2025 between Australia and the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat has further created opportunities for cooperation in trade facilitation, AfCFTA implementation and climate resilience.

The challenge will be ensuring that increased engagement translates into practical benefits while remaining consistent with African priorities.

Adeoye’s visit has consequently opened an additional channel for AU–Australia cooperation. Whether it develops into a deeper strategic partnership will depend on sustained dialogue, concrete programmes and mutually beneficial outcomes