Terrorism and humanitarian crises threaten the stability of West Africa: UN Deputy Secretary General
At the event celebrating the 49th anniversary of the establishment of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed noted the progress achieved along with the challenges ahead.
“In the century, The region has seen an exponential increase in terrorism and a reversal of its developmental gains. This is further exacerbated by the re-emergence of unconstitutional changes to the government, which pose a significant threat to stability in the region,” she said.
Humanitarian needs are growing amid the crisis, “creating new momentum, brings new risks of conflict, extending beyond the region”.
“ECOWAS at position 49 serves as a reminder that the road ahead is full of challenges but also full of potential. This requires both multilateral and regional responses to the complex issues facing each country,” Ms. Mohammed added.
Collective solution
The Deputy Secretary-General emphasized the need to use “all available tools” and jointly design new solutions to meet people’s expectations.
Peace and security must underpin the ‘Vision for Africa’ within the socio-economic development framework of the African Union’s Agenda 2063, with an emphasis on strong democratic institutions, she said. .
“The values of democracy and good governance remain true for our region. But recent developments tell us that people are questioning our democratic models and the need to be fit for purpose to local realities,” she added, while calls for addressing the root causes of conflict in the region.
Saving the SDGs
The Sustainable development goals (SDGs) – which are woefully off track – must be rescued, the UN deputy secretary-general said.
Ms. Mohammed said it was necessary to increase efforts to achieve development goals before the 2030 deadline, with “bold and transformational” actions.
She emphasized the need to invest in energy transition, food systems, digital connectivity, education and skills, as well as climate action and social protection.
Once-in-a-lifetime chance
Mr. Mohammed also emphasized that the Future Summit in September offers a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to address gaps in global governance, including peace and security as part in the Secretary General’s plan. New agenda for peace.
In this context, Africa will play an important role in finding ways to end existing conflicts and prevent new ones – with women playing a central role.
“As negotiations on the new Pact for the Future (outcome of the Future Summit) intensify, I encourage all of you to engage in every aspect,” she said.
Silencing the guns in Gaza, Sudan
In conclusion, the Deputy Secretary-General drew attention to the conflicts in Sudan and Gaza, which “continue to cause unimaginable suffering, especially for women and children”.
She reiterated the need for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, the unconditional release of all hostages and a path towards a lasting two-state solution.
“We are united in our call for peace, silencing the guns across Africa and working to end all conflicts around the world,” she concluded.
