LUANDA-African leaders at the 21st Extraordinary Summit of African Union Heads of State and Government on Strengthening Mechanisms for Conflict Prevention and Resolution in Africa held in Luanda, Angola have called for strengthened collaboration with Regional Economic Communities to advance peace efforts in Africa.
SADC Executive Secretary His Excellency attended the Summit convened at time when SADC is actively supporting its Member States like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar and others, in the consolidation and restoration of peace and security through conflict resolution.
The meeting was hosted by H.E. João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola and AU Champion for Peace and Reconciliation in Africa, chaired by H.E. Évariste Ndayishimiye, President of the Republic of Burundi and Chairperson of the African Union.
Both underscored the importance of peace as a precondition for sustainable economic growth and development.
Several Heads of State and Government and representatives from the SADC region took turns to call for strengthened collaboration with RECs.
Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini, His Excellency Russel Mmiso Dlamini representing His Majesty King Mswati III said Regional Economic Communities such as SADC must be treated as closest allies, because harmonising architecture is the reform most likely to turn what we know into what we do in time.
The message was echoed by others who acknowledged SADC’s efforts in conflict resolution within the ambit of its existing structures, mechanisms and mandates, in support of the broader continental approach.
H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission also emphasised that AU's RECs and Regional Mechanisms remain central to preventive diplomacy, adding that continuous consultation among the Peace and Security Council, the Commission, Member States and regional bodies is essential.
The SADC Executive Secretary was accompanied by Mr. Terry R. Rose, Senior Officer – Politics and Diplomacy and Ambassador Jevin Pillay Ponisamy, SADC Permanent Representative to the AU.