The African Union (AU) has issued a stark warning about the combined effects of escalating conflicts and unconstitutional government changes that threaten the democratic foundations and security of African countries. This statement was made by Alhaji Sarjoh Bah, Director of Conflict Management within the Political Affairs, Peace and Security Department of the AU Commission, during a continental peace and security-themed meeting held at the AU headquarters in the Ethiopian capital on Monday.
Africa is experiencing an increase in conflicts in various regions, including the Horn of Africa, the Sahel, and the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, according to Bah. He highlighted that these conflicts create vacuums that are exploited by terrorist groups and violent extremists, while external actors further destabilise societies and hinder progress toward sustainable peace.
The AU has been actively involved in assisting its conflict-affected member states, aiming to mitigate the impacts of conflict and instability. Bah emphasised the necessity of concerted efforts to strengthen continental peace and security initiatives, specifically noting the importance of a robust African Standby Force to respond to conflicts and emergency situations across the continent.
Bah also addressed the urgent need to tackle the adverse effects of current geopolitical tensions, which he asserted have exacerbated Africa’s peace and security challenges. “The current global landscape is fraught with geopolitical tensions, major power rivalries, and a fragmented international order. Africa is not immune to these challenges, as we witness the rise of transnational threats that test the very fabric of our security architecture,” he said.
The AU official’s remarks underscore the complexity of the issues facing the continent, which range from internal conflicts to the broader impacts of global power dynamics. As Africa grapples with these challenges, the need for effective and coordinated responses becomes ever more critical to ensure lasting peace and stability.