Several experts were to address heads of state from the 53-member bloc, including Sir Nicholas Stern whose recent report for the British government warned the consequences of global warming would be most acutely felt in Africa.

In addition to their session on climate change, African leaders were due to hold a series of bilateral meetings as the summit wraps up after a day dominated by crises in Darfur and Somalia.

In the afternoon, the leaders are expected to study reports and resolutions drawn up by the AU's executive committee which should be agreed upon at the end of the summit.