In a landmark move to elevate Africa’s cultural and creative sectors, SELAM and the African Union Commission (AUC) signed an important Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on September 1, 2025, at the African Union Headquarters. This historic agreement marks the beginning of a collaborative era dedicated to harnessing African culture as a powerful engine for sustainable development and artistic freedom across the continent.
The MoU establishes a joint commitment to advance African culture as a foundational pillar for inclusive growth and social empowerment. Central to the partnership is the focus on ensuring equal cultural participation and inclusion of diverse communities throughout Africa, while championing creativity and innovation as key drivers of economic and social progress.
The agreement also underscores the importance of protecting and promoting freedom of artistic expression, recognizing culture’s vital role in shaping identity and amplifying African voices on the global stage.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ambassador Amma Twum Amoah, Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development at the African Union Commission, described the MoU as “an excellent opportunity to enhance AUC-SELAM collaboration.” She emphasized that the partnership will serve as a practical tool to deepen cooperation between key stakeholders, boost advocacy efforts, and foster inclusive networks benefiting artists and cultural professionals continent-wide.
Teshome Wondimu, Founder and Executive Director of SELAM, highlighted the significance of the agreement for the organization’s ongoing mission. “This MoU builds on SELAM’s 28-plus years of dedication to promoting culture as a catalyst for inclusion, empowerment, and growth throughout Africa,” he said. “It will strengthen our ability to coordinate efforts and create sustainable pathways for Africa’s cultural industries.”
The collaboration between SELAM and the African Union Commission is expected to unlock new opportunities for artists, cultural entrepreneurs, and policymakers, strengthening Africa’s position as a global cultural powerhouse. Through joint initiatives, capacity building, and resource mobilization, the partnership aims to catalyze vibrant cultural ecosystems that drive social cohesion, economic diversification, and creative innovation.
