New York, United States (Running Africa) — The presidents of South Africa, Nigeria, and Egypt are absent from the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, with all three countries instead sending senior officials to represent them during the high-level meetings.

The reasons differ across the three African countries, ranging from medical advice and extended travel to an absence for which no public explanation has been provided.

Cyril Ramaphosa Misses UN General Assembly on Medical Advice

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is not attending after his medical team advised him to rest and recover following his return from the BRICS summit in India.

Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola is leading South Africa’s delegation in New York.

Despite Ramaphosa’s absence, South Africa remains represented at the diplomatic meetings, where global conflicts, development, climate change and reform of international institutions are among the major issues under discussion.

Bola Tinubu Extends Working Vacation in Europe

Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu is also absent from the UN General Assembly after extending a working vacation in Europe.

The Nigerian presidency said Tinubu is expected to return home at the weekend.

Vice President Kashim Shettima is representing Nigeria at the General Assembly and delivering the country’s national statement.

Egypt’s Abdel Fattah el-Sisi Skips UNGA

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has also remained at home, although his government has not publicly provided a reason for his absence.

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly is leading Egypt’s delegation at Sisi’s request and has participated in several high-level meetings in New York.

African Leaders Gather in New York

While Ramaphosa, Tinubu, and Sisi are absent, other African heads of state are attending the UN General Assembly in person, including Ghanaian President John Mahama and Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah.

The absence of the South African, Nigerian and Egyptian presidents is particularly notable given the countries’ economic and diplomatic influence on the continent.

However, all three governments have maintained senior-level representation as African countries engage in discussions over security, development, climate policy and reform of global institutions.