New York — The head of the African Union Commission warned Wednesday that Africa’s fragile peace efforts are under mounting strain, citing persistent conflicts, surging violent extremism and shrinking international support.
Speaking on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the AU’s chairperson, urged member states to “re-energize conflict prevention and resolution,” describing the stakes as critical for the continent’s stability and prosperity.
The remarks came at a high-level meeting of the AU Peace and Security Council, convened by Angolan President João Lourenço, who has played a growing role in regional mediation.
Youssouf outlined three priorities to reverse what he called troubling trends. First, he pushed for anticipation, arguing that early warning systems need to be upgraded with artificial intelligence and big data tools to better predict flashpoints.
Second, he called for reform of the African Standby Force, long seen as underfunded and underprepared, by expanding its police and civilian components. Finally, he pressed for structural prevention, urging governments to build independent peace infrastructures at the national level.
“Africa’s peace and security architecture must be modernized,” Youssouf said, warning that dwindling resources for crisis management and an “erosion of international solidarity” are leaving African states more exposed to instability.
The AU has struggled in recent years to respond to multiple crises at once — from protracted conflicts in Sudan and the Sahel to tensions in the Horn of Africa. Analysts say its credibility often hinges on whether it can balance continental initiatives with external support, particularly from the United Nations and bilateral partners.
Youssouf framed the challenge as one of shared responsibility, insisting that African leaders must take the lead even as they press for renewed international backing. “We can chart a path toward a more peaceful and prosperous Africa,” he said, “but only if we act collectively and decisively.”
The AU Commission reiterated its commitment to work with member states, regional blocs and global partners, signaling that it sees innovation and political will as the only path forward in an increasingly volatile security environment.