The African Union has stepped up its efforts to bring peace and stability to Sudan, announcing the formation of a High-Level Panel tasked with tackling the ongoing conflict.
This panel, appointed by Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat, brings together renowned experts with extensive experience in conflict resolution and diplomacy.
The panel comprises three prominent figures including Dr. Speciosa Wandira-Kazibwe Former Vice President of Uganda, known for her commitment to peacebuilding and regional integration.
Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas also Ghanaian diplomat with decades of experience at the United Nations, including serving as Special Representative of the Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel.
Ambassador Francisco Madeira a Former Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission to Somalia and Head of AMISOM/ATMIS, with deep understanding of conflict dynamics in the region.
In a press statement released read that the appointment, takes effect immediately, is in line with the conclusion of the AU Peace and Security Council and in furtherance of the AU’s mandate and determination to entrench peace and stability on the Continent,
Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat said this involves engaging with all stakeholders, from civilian forces and military actors to regional and international partners like IGAD, the UN, and the League of Arab States.
Chair Mahamat expressed his gratitude to the panel members for accepting this critical task and urged all stakeholders to extend their full cooperation. This support is crucial for the panel’s success and, ultimately, for the realization of peace in Sudan.
The conflict, which erupted in April 2023, has already claimed over 12,000 lives and displaced more than 7.4 million people. Women and children have borne the brunt of the suffering, according to the UN.