His Imperial Highness Prince Estifanos Matewos has formally addressed a valedictory letter to the outgoing Chairperson of the African Union, His Excellency João Manuel Gonçalves
Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola, marking the conclusion of his tenure.
In parallel, His Imperial Highness conveyed letters of congratulations to the incoming Chairperson of the African Union, His Excellency Évariste Ndayishimiye, President of the Republic of Burundi, as well as to The Right Honourable Mia Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, following their formal
assumption of office.
In his valedictory message dated 14 February 2026, Prince Estifanos commended President Lourenço for what he described as “exemplary leadership” during his stewardship of the African
Union. The Prince praised the Angolan leader for guiding the continental body through “multiple internal and external challenges with dignity,” while upholding its core values. He further acknowledged the outgoing Chairperson’s steadfast support for key agreements and policies
that strengthened the Union’s continental architecture and global standing. Reflecting on the transition, His Imperial Highness noted that the foundation reinforced under President Lourenço’s chairmanship would endure and continue to inspire people-centred development across Africa. He concluded by expressing Africa’s enduring appreciation for Lourenço’s stewardship and conveyed wishes for wisdom, fortitude, and good health in his continued service to Angola and the continent.
In a separate congratulatory letter to President Ndayishimiye on his assumption of the African Union chairmanship, Prince Estifanos expressed “utmost respect, profound admiration, and sincere affection.
” He underscored the pivotal moment facing the continent, emphasizing the
need for Africa’s voice to resonate clearly and for continental solidarity to remain genuine and purpose-driven.
The Prince voiced confidence that under Ndayishimiye’s leadership, the Union would strengthen unity and advance tangible, people-centred progress, particularly in youth empowerment. He
also pledged the unwavering support of his office in advancing the Union’s annual theme and addressing Africa’s peace and security challenges, invoking divine guidance for the Burundian leader’s tenure.
Turning to the Caribbean, Prince Estifanos extended warm congratulations to Prime Minister Mia Mottley on her resounding election victory and historic third consecutive mandate. He described the outcome as a powerful affirmation of the enduring words of renowned Guyanese scholar Walter Rodney, whom he quoted as saying, “The people must be confident that they have the power to change things.”
The Prince commended Prime Minister Mottley’s leadership during periods of regional and global uncertainty, noting that she has inspired renewed confidence in good governance, resilience, and purpose. He further expressed appreciation for her efforts to strengthen relations between the Caribbean Diaspora and the African continent, highlighting shared heritage, struggle, and aspiration.Prince Estifanos concluded by reaffirming the full support of his office for Prime Minister Mottley’s continued service and expressed hope that her new term would usher in bold
initiatives, strengthened ties, and lasting fulfilment for the people of Barbados, the Caribbean, and people of African descent worldwide.
www.delreport.com