Africa’s three largest economies by nominal GDP are represented at the UN General Assembly this week, but none of their presidents is attending in person.
South Africa, Egypt and Nigeria have instead sent senior officials to New York for the 81st UN General Assembly.
Their delegations will take part in talks on security, development, climate change and reform of global institutions.
The General Debate begins on September 22.
South Africa represented by foreign minister
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is not attending the gathering.
The South African Presidency said Ramaphosa had been advised by his medical team to rest and recover due to ill health.
Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola is leading South Africa’s delegation.
South Africa is expected to raise several issues at the UN, including reform of global institutions.
Pretoria also supports permanent African representation on the UN Security Council.
Egypt sends prime minister to UNGA
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi is also not attending the General Assembly in person.
Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly is leading Egypt’s delegation on his behalf.
Madbouly travelled to New York on September 21.
According to Egypt’s State Information Service, he will deliver speeches at several UN events.
He is also expected to hold meetings with international organisations and business representatives.
Egypt says its agenda includes peace and security, sustainable development, water security and climate change.
Nigeria represented by vice president
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu is also absent from the gathering.
Vice President Kashim Shettima is representing Nigeria and will deliver the country’s national statement.
Nigeria’s presidency said Tinubu is currently in France after extending a working vacation.
Shettima is also expected to hold bilateral meetings and attend other high-level events in New York.
Major African economies remain represented
Despite the absence of their presidents, all three countries remain represented at a senior level.
South Africa, Egypt and Nigeria are among Africa’s largest economies and have significant diplomatic influence on the continent.
This year’s UN meetings come as African governments continue to call for changes to global institutions.
One major issue is the UN Security Council.
African countries have long called for permanent representation on the council.
Other issues affecting the continent are also on the agenda. These include peace and security, climate action, development and international financing.
The three countries will therefore remain involved in the talks, even without their presidents in New York.