Peace and Security Department, African Union, ending conflicts and sustaining peace in Africahttp://www.peaceau.org/Peace and Security, African Union, RSS FeedenTuesday 26 September 2023 Tuesday 26 September 2023 5Peace and Security Department, African Union, ending conflicts and sustaining peace in Africa/images/logo-african-union-peace-and-security-by-kodjo-en.gif<![CDATA[Launch of the African Union Election Observation Mission to the 29 September 2023 General Elections in the Kingdom of Eswatini ]]>/en/article/launch-of-the-african-union-election-observation-mission-to-the-29-september-2023-general-elections-in-the-kingdom-of-eswatiniThe African Union Commission (AUC) announces the launch of the African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM) to the 29 September 2023 General Elections in the Kingdom of Eswatini. The short-term election observation mission comprises forty (40) observers drawn from various AU Member States including members of Permanent Representatives Committee to the African union, Pan African Parliament, representatives of Election Management Bodies and civil society organisations as well as independent experts, women and youth. The AUEOM is coordinated by His Excellency Ambassador Bankole ADEOYE, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security of the African union. The Mission is supported by a team of experts from the AUC and Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA).

]]>2023-09-25 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/launch-of-the-african-union-election-observation-mission-to-the-29-september-2023-general-elections-in-the-kingdom-of-eswatini<![CDATA[PEACE DIVIDENDS: Newsletter of the Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security]]>/en/article/peace-dividends Vol.2 Issue1]]>2023-09-25 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/peace-dividends<![CDATA[Leveraging Arts for Peace – Training on Silencing the Guns]]>/en/article/leveraging-arts-for-peace-training-on-silencing-the-gunsAs a follow-up to the December 2021 Seminar for African Artists on Silencing the Guns, the African Union (AU) Commission in collaboration with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), convened a five-day virtual training for another cohort of artists from 18 to 22 September 2023, under the theme: 'Leveraging Arts for Peace'.  The training was grounded in the belief that Art helps prevent conflict in communities by raising awareness and inspiring tolerance around societal differences.

]]>2023-09-22 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/leveraging-arts-for-peace-training-on-silencing-the-guns<![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL PEACE DAY - Statement from the Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Ambassador Bankole Adeoye ]]>/en/article/international-peace-day-statement-from-the-commissioner-for-political-affairs-peace-and-security-ambassador-bankole-adeoyeOn the occasion of International Day of Peace,  I join our Leaders in wishing all the world of peaceful coexistence in which differences are resolved through dialogue without resorting to violence; a world in which the strength of our differences is harnessed as a rich tapestry of resources; a world of sustainable resource management that inclusively serves the needs of the present generation and ensures a legacy for future generations; and for our African continent, a world of good governance that enables us to use our rich endowments for the benefit of our people.  

]]>2023-09-21 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/international-peace-day-statement-from-the-commissioner-for-political-affairs-peace-and-security-ambassador-bankole-adeoye<![CDATA[Communique of the 1173rd meeting of the PSC, held on 14 September 2023, on the Situation in Somalia and the Operations of the AU Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS)]]>/en/article/communique-of-the-1173rd-meeting-of-the-psc-held-on-14-september-2023-on-the-situation-in-somalia-and-the-operations-of-the-au-transition-mission-in-somalia-atmisAdopted by the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU) at its 1173rd meeting, held on 14 September 2023, on the Situation in Somalia and the Operations of the AU Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS): 

The Peace and Security Council, 

Recalling all its previous decisions and pronouncements on the situation in Somalia and on ATMIS, in particular, Communiqué [PSC/PR/COMM.1143 (2023)] adopted at its 1043rd meeting, held on 7 March 2023, Communiqué [PSC/PR/COMM.1123 (2023)] adopted at its 1023rd meeting held on 30 November 2022 and Communique [PSC/PR/COMM.1068 (2021)], adopted at its 1068th meeting held on 8 March 2022; as well as the UN Security Council Resolution 2628 (2022) which authorised the reconfiguration of the AU Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) into ATMIS and UN Security Council Resolution 2687(2023); 

Reaffirming the AU’s solidarity with the people and the Federal Government of Somalia in their aspirations for durable peace, security, stability, and prosperity, which will benefit the Horn of Africa region and the Continent as a whole; also reaffirming the unwavering commitment of the AU to respect the territorial integrity, sovereignty and unity of Somalia;

Noting the opening remarks by H.E. Ambassador Churchill Ewumbue Monono,  Permanent Representative of the Republic of Cameroon to the AU and Chairperson of the Peace and Security Council (PSC) for September 2023, the remarks by H.E. Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, as well as the briefing by H.E. Ambassador Souef Mohamed El-Amine, Special Representative of the Chairperson of the Commission for Somalia and Head of ATMIS; also noting the statements by the representatives of the Federal Government of Somalia, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and the United Nations (UN); 

]]>2023-09-14 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/communique-of-the-1173rd-meeting-of-the-psc-held-on-14-september-2023-on-the-situation-in-somalia-and-the-operations-of-the-au-transition-mission-in-somalia-atmis<![CDATA[The 7th Edition of the African Transitional Justice Forum concludes in Rabat]]>/en/article/the-7th-edition-of-the-african-transitional-justice-forum-concludes-in-rabatThe Department of Political Affairs and Peace and Security (PAPS) at the African Union Commission (AUC), the Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation (CSVR) and the National Human Rights Council of Morocco (CNDH) organized the Seventh Edition of the African Transitional Justice Forum from the 12th to the 14th of September 2023 in Rabat, Kingdom of Morocco.

]]>2023-09-14 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/the-7th-edition-of-the-african-transitional-justice-forum-concludes-in-rabat<![CDATA[A Three-Day Training of Trainers on Youth Election Situation holds in Monrovia, Liberia with the support of the African Union and International IDEA]]>/en/article/a-three-day-training-of-trainers-on-youth-election-situation-holds-in-monrovia-liberia-with-the-support-of-the-african-union-and-international-ideaThe African Union Commission through the Conflict Prevention Directorate, Department of Political Affairs Peace and Security in collaboration with the International IDEA has organised a three-day Training of Trainers’ (ToT) workshop for 44 members of the Federation of Liberian Youth (FLY) in Monrovia, Liberia from 11 to 13 September 2023. The electoral assistance to FLY is pursuant to Article 18 of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance which mandates the AU to provide technical assistance to electoral stakeholders, upon request. The main objective of the electoral support to FLY is to assist in peaceful, democratic and credible elections in Liberia.

]]>2023-09-13 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/a-three-day-training-of-trainers-on-youth-election-situation-holds-in-monrovia-liberia-with-the-support-of-the-african-union-and-international-idea<![CDATA[The Africa Platform on Children Affected by Armed Conflicts undertook a Lessons-learning mission to Sierra Leone on the Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Children affected by Armed Conflicts]]>/en/article/the-africa-platform-on-children-affected-by-armed-conflicts-undertook-a-lessons-learning-mission-to-sierra-leone-on-the-rehabilitation-and-reintegration-of-children-affected-by-armed-conflictsThe Africa Platform on Children Affected by Armed Conflicts (AP CAAC) undertook a lessons-learning mission to the Republic of Sierra Leone to assess and learn from the initiatives undertaken on rehabilitating and reintegrating children affected by the decade-long civil war (1991-2002). AP CAAC commended the deliberate and concerted efforts undertaken by the Government in collaboration with key stakeholders and partners to address the plight faced by children during the conflict and called on the Government of Sierra Leone to continue to lead efforts in promoting children's rights. The lessons-learning mission to the Republic of Sierra Leone occurred from the 4th to the 8th of September 2023. The mission aimed to provide a lessons-learning opportunity for the Platform to learn the best practices on the rehabilitation and reintegration of children affected by armed conflict to enhance the capacity of the Platform on measures to be recommended, contextually, to countries in conflict situations.

]]>2023-09-13 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/the-africa-platform-on-children-affected-by-armed-conflicts-undertook-a-lessons-learning-mission-to-sierra-leone-on-the-rehabilitation-and-reintegration-of-children-affected-by-armed-conflicts<![CDATA[7th Edition of the African Transitional Justice Forum on the State of Transitional Justice in Africa]]>/en/article/7th-edition-of-the-african-transitional-justice-forum-on-the-state-of-transitional-justice-in-africa-1Draft Program: https://www.peaceau.org/uploads/draft-program-7th-tjf.pdf

Media Advisory: https://www.peaceau.org/uploads/ma-7th-atjf.pdf

]]>2023-09-11 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/7th-edition-of-the-african-transitional-justice-forum-on-the-state-of-transitional-justice-in-africa-1<![CDATA[JOINT PRESS RELEASE: The 2nd Africa Business and Human Rights Forum called for Inclusive Growth that respects Human Rights ]]>/en/article/joint-press-release-the-2nd-africa-business-and-human-rights-forum-called-for-inclusive-growth-that-respects-human-rightsAddis Ababa, 7 September 2023: The second African Business and Human Rights Forum just concluded with a call for action from all stakeholders to promote robust, inclusive growth that respects human rights and increases prosperity for people across Africa.

]]>2023-09-07 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/joint-press-release-the-2nd-africa-business-and-human-rights-forum-called-for-inclusive-growth-that-respects-human-rights<![CDATA[Experts Roundtable on Silencing the Guns held in Nairobi, Kenya]]>/en/article/experts-roundtable-on-silencing-the-guns-held-in-nairobi-kenyaThe African Union (AU) High Representative for Silencing the Guns, Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, convened a three-day Experts Roundtable on Silencing the Guns, in Nairobi, Kenya, from 30 August to 1 September 2023, under the theme, “A decade of Silencing the Guns in Africa: Progress, Lessons Learned and the Way Forward”.

]]>2023-09-04 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/experts-roundtable-on-silencing-the-guns-held-in-nairobi-kenya<![CDATA[Press Release: Technical Consultative Meeting on the Operationalization of the WiseYouth Network, 31 August - 01 September 2023, Bujumbura, Burundi]]>/en/article/press-release-technical-consultative-meeting-on-the-operationalization-of-the-wiseyouth-network-31-august-01-september-2023-bujumbura-burundiThe AU Commission convened a technical consultative meeting on the operationalization of the WiseYouth Network, on 31 August to 01 September 2023, in Bujumbura, Burundi. This consultative meeting took place within the context of the Inter-Regional Knowledge Exchange (I-RECKE) platform, and brought together: H.E. Domitien Ndayizeye, Former President of the Republic of Burundi and member of the AU Panel of the Wise, representatives from the Ministry of East African Community Affairs, Youth, Sports and Culture of Burundi, Dr. Akok Madut, the Head of the AU Mediation and Dialogue Division (MDD), and technical experts from the Regional Economic Communities and Regional Mechanisms (RECs/RMs), the G5-Sahel, and the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC). It also brought together the African Youth Ambassadors for peace (AYAPs), representatives from the Directorates and Divisions of the AU Commission engaged in promoting the youth mandate including the Office of the Chairperson’s Special Envoy on Youth, the Women, Gender and Youth Directorate (WGYD), the Youth4Peace programme, and MDD, as well as youth engaged in mediation efforts, and YPS policy experts from the Network of Think Tanks for Peace (NeTT4Peace). 

]]>2023-09-02 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/press-release-technical-consultative-meeting-on-the-operationalization-of-the-wiseyouth-network-31-august-01-september-2023-bujumbura-burundi<![CDATA[Cameroon Assumes the Chairship of the African Union’s Peace and Security Council for September 2023 ]]>/en/article/press-release-cameroon-assumes-the-chairship-of-the-african-union-s-peace-and-security-council-for-september-2023Addis Ababa, 1 September 2023: The Republic of Cameroon has taken over from Burundi as the Chair of the AU Peace and Security Council for the Month of September 2023. The eighth since 2004, Cameroon’s Chairship is coming within the context of growing concerns in the Continent on the spade of Unconstitutional Changes of Government, financial challenges in managing Peace Support Operations in Africa, difficult political transitions and increasing terrorist acts in African Coastal countries. It is also coming within the backdrop of the Commemoration of the Africa Amnesty Month, the International Peace Day, the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the holding of the African Climate Summit in Nairobi and the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York.

]]>2023-09-01 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/press-release-cameroon-assumes-the-chairship-of-the-african-union-s-peace-and-security-council-for-september-2023<![CDATA[Communique of the 1172nd of the PSC held on 31 August 2023, on the situation in the Republic of Gabon]]>/en/article/communique-of-the-1172nd-of-the-psc-held-on-31-august-2023-on-the-situation-in-the-republic-of-gabonAdopted by the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU) at its 1172nd meeting held on 31 August 2023, on the situation in the Republic of Gabon.

The Peace and Security Council,

Recalling Declaration [Ext/Assembly/AU/Decl.(XVI)] on Terrorism and Unconstitutional Changes of Government, adopted by the 16th Extraordinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government held in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, from 27 to 28 May 2022; Decision AHG/Dec.141(XXXV) and AHG/Dec.142(XXXV), adopted by the 35th Ordinary Session of the OAU Assembly of Heads of State and Government held in Algiers, Algeria, from 12 to 14 July 1999; the Declaration on the Framework for an OAU Response to Unconstitutional Changes of Government, adopted by the 36th Ordinary Session of the OAU Assembly of Heads of State and Government held in Lomé, Togo, from 10 to 12 July 2000 (the Lomé Declaration); and the Solemn Declaration of the 50th OAU/AU Anniversary adopted in Addis Ababa on 25 May 2013;

Also recalling Press Statement [PSC/PR/BR.(DCCCXI)] adopted at its 821st meeting held on 9 January 2019; and the Press Release of the Chairperson of the AU Commission, H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, issued on 30 August 2023 following the coup d’état in the Republic of Gabon;

Upholding the AU Constitutive Act, the Protocol Relating to the Establishment of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union, particularly Article 7 (g); and reiterating the AU zero tolerance of unconstitutional changes of government, in line with Article 4(p) of the AU Constitutive Act;

Taking note of the opening remarks by H.E. Ambassador Willy Nyamitwe, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Burundi to the AU and PSC Chairperson for the month of August 2023; the briefing by H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the AU Commission delivered on his behalf by H.E. Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, the AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, and the statement by the Representative of the Secretariat of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS); and

]]>2023-08-31 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/communique-of-the-1172nd-of-the-psc-held-on-31-august-2023-on-the-situation-in-the-republic-of-gabon<![CDATA[MEDIA ADVISORY: African Business and Human Rights Forum: For Africa, from Africa ]]>/en/article/media-advisory-african-business-and-human-rights-forum-for-africa-from-africaINVITATION TO THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE MEDIA

 What: Organized under the theme For Africa, from Africa, the forum, African Business and Human Rights Forum, will focus on recent developments in responsible business practices and discuss strategies to reduce the adverse impact of business on human rights and the environment.

]]>2023-08-30 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/media-advisory-african-business-and-human-rights-forum-for-africa-from-africa<![CDATA[PRELIMINARY STATEMENT: AU - COMESA Election observation mission to the 23 August 2023 Harmonised elections in Zimbabwe ]]>/en/article/preliminary-statement-au-comesa-election-observation-mission-to-the-23-august-2023-harmonised-elections-in-zimbabweClick here

]]>2023-08-25 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/preliminary-statement-au-comesa-election-observation-mission-to-the-23-august-2023-harmonised-elections-in-zimbabwe<![CDATA[Communique of the 1171st meeting of the PSC held on 24 August 2023, on “Updated Briefing on the Development of the Common African Position on Cyber-Security in Africa"]]>/en/article/communique-of-the-1171st-meeting-of-the-psc-held-on-24-august-2023-on-updated-briefing-on-the-development-of-the-common-african-position-on-cyber-security-in-africaAdopted by the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU) at its 1171st meeting held on 24 August 2023, on “Updated Briefing on the Development of the Common African Position on Cyber-Security in Africa.”

The Peace and Security Council,

Recalling Decision [Ext./Assembly/AU/Dec/(XVI)] adopted by the 16th Extraordinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government on Terrorism and Unconstitutional Changes of Government held on 28 May 2022, in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea and the AU Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection (Malabo Convention);

Also recalling its previous decisions and pronouncements on Cyber Security in Africa, particularly, Communique [PSC/PR/COMM.1148 (2023)] adopted at its 1148th meeting held on 13 April 2023 on Cyber Security: Impact on Peace and Security in Africa; communique [PSC/PR/COMM.1120.1.(2022)] adopted at its 1120th meeting held on 9 November 2022 on the Inaugural Engagements between the PSC and the AU Commission on International Law (AUCIL); and communique [PSC/PR/COMM.1097.1 (2022)], adopted at its 1097th meeting held on 4 August 2022;

Determined to find a lasting solution to  the growing threat to peace, security and stability in the Continent posed by the increasing cyber-attacks, malicious use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) and incidents of unethical and hostile cyber-activities undertaken by both, state and non-state actors, including the targeting of government institutions and public infrastructure; the spread of misinformation and disinformation, subversive activities and interferences with national government processes, as well as the promotion of ideologies of hate and hate speech;

Mindful of the critical importance of cyber technologies and ICTs in the promotion of national, regional and continental development; as well as in the promotion of peace, security and stability in Member States; 

Noting the opening statement by H.E. Ambassador Willy Nyamitwe, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Burundi to the Africa Union and Chairperson of the PSC for the month of August 2023; the presentations by Dr. Guy-Fleury Ntwari, the Director of AU Legal Counsel and by Dr. Mohammed Helal, the Special Rapporteur of the AU Commission on International Law; and

]]>2023-08-24 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/communique-of-the-1171st-meeting-of-the-psc-held-on-24-august-2023-on-updated-briefing-on-the-development-of-the-common-african-position-on-cyber-security-in-africa<![CDATA[Communique of the 1170th meeting of the PSC held on 22 August 2023, on Briefing on Continental Early Warning and Security Outlook by the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services of Africa (CISSA), the Africa Centre for the Study and Research on Terrorism (ACSRT) and the AU Police Coordination Mechanism (AFRIPOL)]]>/en/article/communique-of-the-1170th-meeting-of-the-psc-held-on-22-august-2023-on-briefing-on-continental-early-warning-and-security-outlook-by-the-committee-of-intelligence-and-security-services-of-africa-cissa-the-africa-centre-for-the-study-and-research-on-terroAdopted by the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU) at its 1170th meeting held on 22 August 2023, on Briefing on Continental Early Warning and Security Outlook by the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services of Africa (CISSA), the Africa Centre for the Study and Research on Terrorism (ACSRT) and the AU Police Coordination Mechanism (AFRIPOL).

The Peace and Security Council,

Recalling Declaration [Ext/Assembly/AU/Decl.(XVI)] on Terrorism and Unconstitutional Changes of Government, adopted by the 16th Extraordinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government held on 28 May 2022, in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea; also recalling its previous decisions and pronouncements on Continental Early Warning and Security Outlook, particularly,  Communiques [PSC/PR/COMM.1138 (2023)], adopted at its 1138th meeting held on 8 February 2023;  [PSC/PR/COMM.1073 (2022)] adopted at its 1073rd  meeting held on 6 April 2022; [PSC/PR/COMM.1014 (2021)] adopted at its 1014th meeting held on 26 July 2021; [PSC/PR/COMM.(CMXIV)] adopted at its 914th meeting held on 5 March 2020, and Communique [PSC/PR/COMM.CMI)] adopted at its 901st held on 13 December 2019;

Determined to ensure the successful implementation of the AU Master Roadmap of Practical Steps for Silencing the Guns by 2030 and realization of Aspiration 4 of AU Agenda 2063;

Noting the opening statement by H.E. Ambassador Willy Nyamitwe, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Burundi to the AU and Chairperson of the PSC for August 2023, and H.E. Ambassador Adeoye Bankole, AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security; also noting the presentations by H.E. Ambassador Zainab Ali Kotoko, Executive Secretary of CISSA, and by the representatives of ACSRT and AFRIPOL; and

]]>2023-08-22 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/communique-of-the-1170th-meeting-of-the-psc-held-on-22-august-2023-on-briefing-on-continental-early-warning-and-security-outlook-by-the-committee-of-intelligence-and-security-services-of-africa-cissa-the-africa-centre-for-the-study-and-research-on-terro<![CDATA[ARRIVAL STATEMENT: African Union and Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa Joint Election Observation Mission to the 23 August 2023 harmonized elections in the Republic of Zimbabwe ]]>/en/article/arrival-statement-african-union-and-common-market-for-eastern-and-southern-africa-joint-election-observation-mission-to-the-23-august-2023-harmonized-elections-in-the-republic-of-zimbabweThe African Union Commission (AUC) announces the arrival of the joint African Union (AU) Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Election Observation Mission (EOM), for the 23 August 2023 Harmonized Elections in the Republic of Zimbabwe. At the invitation of the Government of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, His Excellency Moussa Faki Mahamat, approved the deployment of the joint short-term AU-COMESA EOM to assess and report on the conduct of this election.

]]>2023-08-19 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/arrival-statement-african-union-and-common-market-for-eastern-and-southern-africa-joint-election-observation-mission-to-the-23-august-2023-harmonized-elections-in-the-republic-of-zimbabwe<![CDATA[MEDIA ADVISORY: The arrival of the head of the AU-COMESA joint Election Observation Mission in Zimbabwe ]]>/en/article/media-advisory-the-arrival-of-the-head-of-the-au-comesa-joint-election-observation-mission-in-zimbabweINVITATION TO THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE MEDIA

What: The arrival of the head of the AU-COMESA joint Election Observation Mission to the 23 August 2023 Harmonized Elections in the Republic of Zimbabwe, H.E. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

]]>2023-08-18 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/media-advisory-the-arrival-of-the-head-of-the-au-comesa-joint-election-observation-mission-in-zimbabwe<![CDATA[The African Union Panel of the Wise Statement on Senegal]]>/en/article/the-african-union-panel-of-the-wise-statement-on-senegal1.    The African Union Panel of the Wise notes with appreciation the 3rd July announcement of H.E. Macky Sall, President of the Republic of Senegal, not to seek the office of the Presidency for a third consecutive term through a constitutional amendment. The Panel commends the President for the astute decision taken on the issue that had, in recent months, divided the people of Senegal and concerned the regional and international communities.

]]>2023-08-14 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/the-african-union-panel-of-the-wise-statement-on-senegal<![CDATA[Communique of the 1168th meeting of the PSC held on 14 August 2023, on Updated Briefing on the Situation in Niger]]>/en/article/communique-of-the-1168th-meeting-of-the-psc-held-on-14-august-2023-on-updated-briefing-on-the-situation-in-nigerAdopted by the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU) at its 1168th meeting held on 14 August 2023, on Updated Briefing on the Situation in Niger.

The Peace and Security Council,

Recalling Declaration [Ext/Assembly/AU/Decl.(XVI)] on Terrorism and Unconstitutional Changes of Government, adopted by the 16th Extraordinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government held in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, from 27 to 28 May 2022; Decision AHG/Dec.141(XXXV) and AHG/Dec.142(XXXV), adopted by the 35th Ordinary Session of the OAU Assembly of Heads of State and Government held in Algiers, Algeria, from 12 to 14 July 1999; the Declaration on the Framework for an OAU Response to Unconstitutional Change of Government, adopted by the 36th Ordinary Session of the OAU Assembly of Heads of State and Government held in Lomé, Togo, from 10 to 12 July 2000 (the Lomé Declaration); and the Solemn Declaration of the 50th OAU/AU Anniversary adopted in Addis Ababa on 25 May 2013;

Also recalling its decisions and pronouncements on the situation in Niger, in particular, Communique [PSC/PR/COMM.1164 (2023)] adopted at its 1164th meeting held on 28 July 2023; the Press Release of the Chairperson of the AU Commission, H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, issued on 26 July 2023;

Upholding the AU Constitutive Act, the Protocol Relating to the Establishment of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union, particularly Article 7 (g) and the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance; while reiterating the AU zero tolerance of unconstitutional changes of government, in line with Article 4(p) of the AU Constitutive Act;

Reaffirming the determination to silence the guns in Africa by the year 2030 and creating the conducive conditions for the realization of the AU Vision of an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its people and representing a dynamic force in the global arena, as well as AU Agenda 2063;

Taking note of the opening remarks by H.E. Ambassador Willy Nyamitwe, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Burundi to the AU and Chairperson for the month of August 2023; the briefings by H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the AU Commission and H.E. Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, the AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security; as well as the statements made by Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security; H.E. Ambassador Amadou Hassane Mai Dawa, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Niger to the AU; and H.E. Ambassador Nasir Aminu, the Representative of the Chair of the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) Authority of Heads of State and Government; and

Acting under Article 7 of its Protocol, the Peace and Security Council,

]]>2023-08-14 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/communique-of-the-1168th-meeting-of-the-psc-held-on-14-august-2023-on-updated-briefing-on-the-situation-in-niger<![CDATA[Communique of the 1167th Meeting of the PSC held on 11 August 2023 on Experience Sharing Session between the PSC and the African Governance Architecture (AGA) Platform Members]]>/en/article/communique-of-the-1167th-meeting-of-the-psc-held-on-11-august-2022-on-experience-sharing-session-between-the-psc-and-the-african-governance-architecture-aga-platform-membersAdopted by the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU) at its 1167th Meeting held on 11 August 2023 on Experience Sharing Session between the PSC and the African Governance Architecture (AGA) Platform Members:

The Peace and Security Council,

Recalling Decision [Assembly/AU/Dec.304 (XV)] adopted by the 15thOrdinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government held in July 2010 which provided the mandate for the establishment of a Pan African Architecture on Governance which was further established as African Governance Architecture(AGA) as a platform for dialogue between stakeholders; Declaration [Assembly/AU/Decl.1 (XVI)] adopted by the 16th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government held in Addis Ababa, in January 2011 on the Theme: “Towards Greater Unity and Integration through Shared Values; also recalling Communiqués [PSC/PR/COMM.1098 (2022)] adopted at its 1098th meeting held on 11 August 2022; and [PSC/PR/COMM.1095 (2022)] adopted at its 1095th meeting held on 1 August 2022; 

Deeply concerned by the resurgence of unconstitutional changes of government on the Continent;

Taking note of the opening statement by H.E. Ambassador Willy Nyamitwe, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Burundi to the African Union (AU) and Chairperson of the Peace and Security Council of the AU for August 2023 and the introductory remarks by H.E. Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, read on his behalf by Ms. Patience Chiradza, the Director for Governance and Conflict Prevention; also taking note of the statements by H.E. Ambassador Dr. James Pitia Morgan, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Sudan and Chairperson of the PRC Sub-Committee on Human Rights, Democracy and Governance and by Dr. Solomon Ayele Dersso on behalf of Honorable Remy Lumbu, Chairperson of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) and Chairperson of the AGA Platform; and

]]>2023-08-11 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/communique-of-the-1167th-meeting-of-the-psc-held-on-11-august-2022-on-experience-sharing-session-between-the-psc-and-the-african-governance-architecture-aga-platform-members<![CDATA[The African decentralization and local development day (ADD) 2023 celebration - The contribution of african subnational and local governments in the making of the africa continental free trade (AfCFTA) ]]>/en/article/upcoming-the-theme-and-sub-themes-for-the-african-decentralization-and-local-development-day-add-2023-celebration-the-contribution-of-african-subnational-and-local-governments-in-the-making-of-the-africa-continental-free-trade-afcftaCONCEPT NOTE

THE THEME AND SUB-THEMES FOR THE AFRICAN DECENTRALIZATION AND LOCAL DEVELOPMENT DAY (ADD) 2023 CELEBRATION

]]>2023-08-10 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/upcoming-the-theme-and-sub-themes-for-the-african-decentralization-and-local-development-day-add-2023-celebration-the-contribution-of-african-subnational-and-local-governments-in-the-making-of-the-africa-continental-free-trade-afcfta<![CDATA[AU-COMESA joint Election Observation Mission set to be deployed to the upcoming Zimbabwe Elections]]>/en/article/au-comesa-joint-election-observation-mission-set-to-be-deployed-to-the-upcoming-zimbabwe-electionsOn 23 August 2023, The Republic of Zimbabwe is scheduled to hold its 2023 Harmonized elections. As the Country makes final preparations to hold its Harmonized Elections, the Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat of the African Union (AU) Commission, will deploy a joint African Union (AU) and Common Market for East and Southern Africa (COMESA) Election Observation Mission (EOM) to Zimbabwe.

]]>2023-08-04 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/au-comesa-joint-election-observation-mission-set-to-be-deployed-to-the-upcoming-zimbabwe-elections<![CDATA[African Women for Transitional Justice (AW4TJ) continental platform launches ]]>/en/article/african-women-for-transitional-justice-aw4tj-continental-platform-launchesNairobi, 4 August 2023 – The African Women for Transitional Justice (AW4TJ) programme was formally launched as a continental platform following the inaugural training and network-building session for women in transitional Justice. The event was conducted by the African Union with the support of the host country Kenya, the EU Consortium on Transitional Justice in Africa (The Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation - CSVR, the Inernational Center for Transitional justice - ICTJ and the Africa Transitional Justice Legacy Fund - ATJLF), GIZ and the European Center for Electoral Support - ECES.

]]>2023-08-04 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/african-women-for-transitional-justice-aw4tj-continental-platform-launches<![CDATA[Communique of the 1166th meeting of the PSC held on 3 August 2023, on Consideration of the Report of the PSC Field Mission to Burkina Faso conducted from 22 to 27 July 2023]]>/en/article/communique-of-the-1166th-meeting-of-the-psc-held-on-3-august-2023-on-consideration-of-the-report-of-the-psc-field-mission-to-burkina-faso-conducted-from-22-to-27-july-2023Adopted by the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU) at its 1166th meeting held on 3 August 2023, on Consideration of the Report of the PSC Field Mission to Burkina Faso conducted from 22 to 27 July 2023.

The Peace and Security Council,

Recalling its previous decisions and pronouncements on the situations in Burkina Faso, in particular, Communiques [PSC/PR/COMM.1162 (2023)], adopted at its 1162nd meeting held on 20 July 2023; [PSC/MIN/COMM.1116 (2022)], adopted at its 1116th meeting held on 31 October 2022; [PSC/PR/COMM.1106 (2022)], adopted at its 1106th meeting held on 19 September 2022; [PSC/PR/COMM.1076 (2022)], adopted at its 1076th meeting held on 14 April 2022; and [PSC/PR/COMM.1062 (2023)] adopted at its 1062nd meeting held on 31 January 2022; and also recalling its Informal Consultation with the Countries in Political Transition, held on 26 April 2023, namely Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali and Sudan;

Taking note of the opening statement by H.E. Ambassador Willy Nyamitwe, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Burundi to the African Union (AU) and Chairperson of the Peace and Security Council of the AU for August 2023 and the presentation of the Report of the PSC Field Mission to Burkina Faso conducted from 22 to 27 July 2023, by H.E. Ambassador Mohamed Lamine Thiaw, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Senegal to the AU and Chairperson of the PSC for July 2023, who led the Delegation of the PSC during the Field Mission;

Mindful of the particularly challenging security situation prevailing in Burkina Faso and the rest of the Sahel region, characterized by the ongoing fight against terrorism and armed groups; 

Reaffirming the AU respect for the independence, sovereignty, national unity and territorial integrity of the Republic of Burkina Faso; and

]]>2023-08-03 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/communique-of-the-1166th-meeting-of-the-psc-held-on-3-august-2023-on-consideration-of-the-report-of-the-psc-field-mission-to-burkina-faso-conducted-from-22-to-27-july-2023<![CDATA[Statement by Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security at the Mainstreaming Young Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) into Africa’s Youth, Peace and Security Agenda Workshop ]]>/en/article/statement-by-ambassador-bankole-adeoye-commissioner-for-political-affairs-peace-and-security-at-the-mainstreaming-young-persons-with-disabilities-pwds-into-africa-s-youth-pea-end-security-agenda-workshopHis Excellency, H.E. Evariste Ndayishimiye, President of the Republic of Burundi, Chairperson of the Peace and Security Council for the month of August 2023 and AU Champion for Youth, Peace and Security,

Distinguished Members of the PSC and AU Member States,

The AU Chairperson’s Special Envoy on Youth,

The African Youth Ambassadors for Peace,

Youth Peacebuilders

Our Partners, Ladies and Gentlemen,

On behalf of the Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, H.E. Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, it is my utmost pleasure to welcome H.E. Evariste Ndayishimiye, President of the Republic of Burundi to the African Union Commission who is the Chairperson of the Peace and Security Council and AU Champion for Youth Peace and Security. Your excellencies the African youth are witnesses of your commitment towards advancing the Youth Peace and Security Agenda. Your presence here today, in the middle of a long and tasking journey, is a further testament to your dedication and proactive stance regarding issues of Youth Peace and Security.

]]>2023-08-02 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/statement-by-ambassador-bankole-adeoye-commissioner-for-political-affairs-peace-and-security-at-the-mainstreaming-young-persons-with-disabilities-pwds-into-africa-s-youth-pea-end-security-agenda-workshop<![CDATA[African Union Commission Welcomes Women Mediators from East and West Africa]]>/en/article/african-union-commission-welcomes-women-mediators-from-east-and-west-africaToday, the African Union (AU) Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS), Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, received a delegation from the Fellowship of Christian Churches in the Great Lakes and Horn of Africa (FECCLAHA), and muslim women groups from East and West Africa to discuss possible areas of collaboration with the AU. 

]]>2023-07-28 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/african-union-commission-welcomes-women-mediators-from-east-and-west-africa<![CDATA[Communique of the 1164th meeting of the PSC held on 28 July 2023, on the Situation in the Republic of Niger]]>/en/article/communique-of-the-1164th-meeting-of-the-psc-held-on-28-july-2023-on-the-situation-in-the-republic-of-nigerAdopted by the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU), at its 1164th meeting held on 28 July 2023, on the Situation in the Republic of Niger:

The Peace and Security Council,

Recalling its earlier decisions and pronouncement on the situation in Niger, in particular communiqués [PSC/AHG/COMM.2 (CCVII)] of 29 October 2009;  [PSC/PR/COMM.2 (CCXVII)] of 19 February 2010; [PSC/PR/COMM(CCLXVI)] of 16 March 2011; and press statements [PSC/PR/BR.2 (CCXX)] of 11 March 2010; [PSC/PR/BR.1 (CCXXXII)] of 17 June 2010; and [PSC/PR/BR(CCXVIII)] of 13 November 2010;

Noting the Statement of the Chairperson of the Commission issued on 26 July 2023; the communique issued by the Commission of the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) on 26 July 2023 and the Communique No. 2 of the ECOWAS issued on 27 July 2023;

Mindful of the relevant provisions of the AU Constitutive Act and the Protocol Relating to the Establishment of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union, particularly Article 7 (g) and the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance; 

Noting the remarks by H.E. Ambassador Mohamed Lamine Thiaw, PSC Chairperson for July 2023 and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Senegal to the AU; and the briefing by H.E. Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, the AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security; and the statement by H.E. Ambassador Amadou Hassane Mai Dawa of the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Niger to the AU; and

]]>2023-07-28 00:00:00 GMTPeace, Security, AfricaKodjo Tchioffo/en/article/communique-of-the-1164th-meeting-of-the-psc-held-on-28-july-2023-on-the-situation-in-the-republic-of-niger