Ethiopia’s Peace-Building Efforts Recognized as Model by African Union Commission.
Addis Ababa: The African Union Commission for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security has praised Ethiopia’s efforts in peace-building, recognizing them as an exemplary model during a Continental Conference on Peace and Development currently underway in Addis Ababa. Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, the African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, highlighted Ethiopia’s significant role in promoting peace and stability. He noted the African Union’s financial support of one million USD toward Ethiopia’s disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration programs as a testament to the country’s impactful peace efforts.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Ambassador Adeoye emphasized Ethiopia’s achievements following the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement signed on November 2, 2022. He remarked that Ethiopia’s contributions in the peace domain serve as a model for achieving peace across the continent. The conference, initiated by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Peace, has gathered African Union officials,
international bodies, and peace experts to formulate sustainable strategies for conflict resolution and development throughout Africa.
The commissioner stressed the importance of integrating peace, security, and development initiatives, advocating for strong collaboration among member states, regional economic communities, and global partners. He referenced the African Union’s Agenda 2063, highlighting the necessity of unity and democracy, and called for the strengthening of policy and practical interventions by combining peace, security, and sustainable development efforts.
UN Assistant Secretary-General and Resident Coordinator in Ethiopia, Ramiz Alakbarov, echoed similar sentiments, commending Ethiopia’s commitment to addressing the root causes of conflict and displacement. He praised the nation’s alignment with the peace agendas of the African Union and the United Nations, underscoring the importance of ‘silencing the guns’ for development to occur.
The conference also emphasized the need for inclusiv
e peace processes, the empowerment of women and youth, and the incorporation of traditional African conflict-resolution mechanisms alongside global standards. It reiterated that peace remains fundamental to achieving sustainable development and prosperity across the African continent.