At the AU Chairperson’s 17th High-Level Retreat on Peace & Security in Africa, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf thanked the people & Government of Gabon for hosting a timely dialogue on the continent’s evolving security landscape.

“The cost of resolving conflicts is exorbitant; prevention, governance & the rule of law are indispensable.” He warned that “shortcomings in multilateralism and the polarisation of global politics require Africa to adapt with unity and strategic clarity.”

The Chairperson stressed that ceasefires, cessation of hostilities & peace processes must lead to sustainable peace, noting that “each conflict has its own peculiarities.” Drawing lessons from South Africa, Rwanda, Liberia & Sierra Leone.

He called for the timely implementation of AU PSC decisions, and UNSC Resolution 2719 to ensure predictable & sustainable financing of peace support operations.

“Silencing the Guns by 2030 is achievable if peace becomes a responsibility we all shoulder together.”

The Retreat was officially opened by the Vice President of the Republic of Gabon, H.E. Hermann Immongault, & was attended former presidents , ministers and members of the diplomatic community. & Special Representatives, High Representatives, & Permanent Representatives of the Chairperson of the AU Commission