On the occasion of International Day of Peace,  I join our Leaders in wishing all the world of peaceful coexistence in which differences are resolved through dialogue without resorting to violence; a world in which the strength of our differences is harnessed as a rich tapestry of resources; a world of sustainable resource management that inclusively serves the needs of the present generation and ensures a legacy for future generations; and for our African continent, a world of good governance that enables us to use our rich endowments for the benefit of our people.  

This year's theme, ‘Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the Global Goals’, aligns with the AU's efforts to promote the surrender and collection of illicit weapons during Amnesty Month. Never before has the call to action been more pertinent than it is today. Our ability to prevent and combat the continent-wide menace of terrorism is contingent on our ability to remove illicit weapons and implement appropriate controls over legal ones.  

In states where unconstitutional changes of government have disrupted governance processes, reversed gains and endangered progress, we must take measures to restore good and effective governance that can deliver the expected benefits of democracy to the people.  

The negative impacts of climate change and the recent disasters in Libya and Morocco, are a stark reminder to all of us to redouble efforts at consensus building in order to build institutional resilience at all levels, from local upwards, for solidarity and cooperation. Equally, individual, community and government action will be required to produce this catalyser.  

Similarly, to help promote local and national level institutional resilience, the AU and UNDP have launched a joint facility, as known as: the African Facility to Support Inclusive Transitions (AFSIT) to assist relevant Member States and we encourage partners to contribute to its effective take-off and sustainability.

Finally, I  urge one and all to take action at their respective levels to help create a more just and equitable world for global peace and sustainable progress.

COMMENTS