Kigali, Rwanda 13 July 2016 - The Executive Council of the African Union has called for efficiency and robust implementation of decisions taken at the continental level with the intentions of facilitating the enhancement of social-economic well-being of Africans.

H.E Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) and Rwandan’s Foreign Affairs Minister, H.E Mrs. Louise Mushikiwabo echoed this during the official opening of the 29th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council at the ongoing African Union Summit in Kigali Rwanda.

Dr. Dlamini Zuma mentioned that security was a key fundamental factor that needs to be considered if the continent is to be transformed from the current economic status.

The AUC Chairperson was concerned about the ongoing conflicts in various parts of Africa especially in South Sudan where the internal conflicts have destabilized the country leading to killings and fleeing of nationals.

“We made a Solemn pledge during the 50th Anniversary that we shall not bequeath wars and violent conflicts to future generations of Africans, and to silence the guns by 2020. We must all do more to honour this pledge. The continent cannot stand by and witness the suffering inflicted on the children, women, men and young people of South Sudan, inflicted on fellow Africans, “she said

She added, “Our 2016 theme on Human rights must be a spur to action: to intervene in conflict situations before they spiral into violence, and to ensure that we strengthen democracy, human rights, promote unity in diversity and inclusive governance in all our countries,”.

Dr. Dlamini Zuma further observed that silencing the guns requires a different approach to peace and security adding that it was now a right time for countries to continue focusing on the Africa Agenda 2063 priorities such as building energy, road, rail and ICT infrastructure, to power and connect homes and industries; expanding agriculture and agro-processing; investing in the health, skills and education of our people, especially Africa’s children, and young men and women, and building inclusive, democratic and tolerant societies.

Hon. Louise Mushikiwabo while addressing the session reiterated the need for working together as African governments for the collective benefits of Africans. The mentioned that, the Summit was a clear manifestation of the unity of Africans, however, emphacising that it was imperative for the AU Member States to focus now on serious matters that impacts the continent.

“This is a time of genuine, serious service to our people, the people of Africa. The Summit should signal the quest of efficiency on behalf of our continent,” underlined the Minister during the session.

She further welcomed the delegates to Rwanda adding that the country was ready to provide all the necessary support to ensure that the Summit becomes a success.

While commenting on the immigration issue that seems troubling the world, Dr. Carlos Lopes, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary ECA noted that the continent needs to address all the challenges that lead to the fleeing of people from the continent.

“Not all seek migration due to ambition alone. Many are compelled to leave because they are in a situation of desperation. Conflicts provoking heavy casualties have risen significantly in the last six years on the continent,” he said.

The ECA Executive Secretary added “They are mostly associated with terrorism. Attacks by radical religious movements have increased 300 per cent since 2009. Exclusion of social groups has become the most pervasive governance problem Africa has to confront”,

The session is also expected to discuss and come up with the final recommendations of what the Heads of State will deliberate on during their meeting scheduled for 17-18 July 2016.

Journalists wishing to interview the leadership of the AU Commission during the Summit should submit their requests to Mrs Esther Azaa Tankou, Ag. Director of Information and Communication of the AUC, via E-mail: YambouE@africa-union.org / esthertankou@yahoo.com;
Tel: +250 789923794

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For further information:
Directorate of Information and Communication | African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@african-union.org I Website: www.au.int I Addis Ababa | Ethiopia

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