ADDIS ABABA — Africa’s borders have been the source of disputes for decades. Some have strained relations between neighbours. Others have slowed trade, investment and regional cooperation.
Now, Equatorial Guinea and Gabon are showing that dialogue can succeed where disagreement has lasted for years.
The two Central African countries have signed a Joint Engagement Agreement to implement the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling on their long-running territorial dispute over islands in the Gulf of Corisco.
The agreement was signed during the 49th Ordinary Session of the African Union Executive Council in Addis Ababa.
Instead of prolonging the dispute, both governments have committed to a roadmap that will peacefully implement the court’s decision. The process will help define maritime boundaries, improve cooperation over offshore resources and strengthen stability in the Gulf of Guinea.
The breakthrough follows months of negotiations led by African Union Special Envoy Albert Shingiro. Representatives from both countries formally endorsed the agreement, reaffirming their commitment to resolving the dispute through peaceful and legal means.
African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf welcomed the agreement, describing it as a strong example of how African countries can settle complex disputes through dialogue, mutual respect and international law.
Across Africa, territorial disputes have often created political tension and slowed regional integration. The African Union has consistently encouraged member states to resolve such disagreements through negotiation rather than confrontation.
The agreement between Equatorial Guinea and Gabon sends that message clearly.
Beyond settling a border dispute, the accord is expected to strengthen investor confidence, improve maritime cooperation and create greater certainty for economic activities in the Gulf of Guinea.
For people living in both countries, peaceful relations can support trade, improve security and create new opportunities for cross-border cooperation.
The agreement also reflects the vision of Agenda 2063—an Africa where disputes are resolved through dialogue, strong institutions and shared commitment instead of conflict.
The work is not yet finished. Implementing the agreement will take time. But by choosing cooperation over confrontation, Equatorial Guinea and Gabon have taken an important step toward lasting peace and stronger regional partnership.