AU proposes $814 million budget for 2026 as push for self-funding intensifies

• Spending plan rises 34% amid new mandates and shrinking external support
• Member state contributions capped at $250 million; delays risk programme delivery

Lagos, Nigeria – The African Union (AU) has unveiled a proposed budget of $814 million for the 2026 fiscal year, a 34% increase over the previous year’s allocation. The plan, presented on Monday during a virtual joint session of the Permanent Representatives’ Committee (PRC) Subcommittees and the Committee of Fifteen Ministers of Finance (F15), aims to meet the Union’s expanding mandates while reducing reliance on external funding.