The African Union hosted a High-Level Dialogue on Sudan, emphasizing the necessity of coordinated efforts among various stakeholders to resolve the ongoing conflict. Discussions highlighted the urgency for inclusive political dialogue and the appointment of a civilian transitional government. The dialogue also addressed the pressing humanitarian crisis resulting from the war, calling for increased support and actions from the AU, local actors, and regional organizations.
On February 11, 2025, the African Union’s (AU) High-Level Panel discussed the ongoing crisis in Sudan at the 2025 Statutory Political Meeting of the African Governance Architecture (AGA) and African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) Platform. Participants emphasized the necessity for coordinated interventions by AU organs, Regional Economic Communities (RECs), and Regional Mechanisms (RMs) for restoring peace. This panel followed a technical meeting on February 10 that focused on synergy and joint planning among stakeholders.
The AU has initiated multiple interventions, informed by the AU Master Roadmap on Silencing the Guns in Africa. Efforts include urging key actors, including Sudan’s neighbors, to advocate for a ceasefire, leading to the development of an Expanded Mechanism aimed at coordinating various initiatives within Sudan.
Speakers stressed the importance of continual, coordinated efforts to mobilize support for an inclusive political dialogue. This dialogue aims to establish a consensual civilian transitional government addressing the root causes of the conflict in Sudan.
Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, Chair of the AU High-Level Panel, highlighted Sudan’s humanitarian crisis as the worst globally. Since the war erupted on April 15, 2023, extensive displacement has occurred, obstructing access to aid and exacerbating food shortages. He noted the predominant reliance on military solutions by both warring factions hinders dialogue needed for a settlement.
Dr. Chambas also noted that external interference encourages military options, worsening the situation. He called for inclusive political dialogue aimed at conflict resolution and establishing a governance framework for post-war Sudan, emphasizing enhanced coordination with partners to avoid overlapping efforts.
Amb. Bankole Adeoye, AU Commissioner, expressed hope for engaging all Sudanese factions, underscoring the necessity of restoring constitutional democracy amid the ongoing refugee crisis affecting neighboring countries due to the conflict. He reiterated that the African Union commits to addressing these challenges.
In 2024, the internally displaced population in Sudan increased by 27%, affecting 11.5 million people, with over half being children. Hon. Wilson Almeida Adao remarked on the significant humanitarian costs involved, noting the rise in severe acute malnutrition and grave human rights violations occurring amidst the ongoing conflict.
Amb. Miguel Ntuntumu Evuna Andeme emphasized the need for a revised commitment to democracy and peace across Africa, proposing enhanced early warning systems, inclusion of marginalized groups, and partnerships with local communities to improve governance.
Hon. Chief Fortune Z. Charumbira urged the call for an end to destructive external influences which empower factions unwilling to engage in political dialogue. A unified approach is necessary to create an effective response to the ongoing war and ensure peace efforts are not fragmented.
Amb. Marie-Antoinette Rose Quatre argued for improved governance and early warning systems as vital elements for peace, advocating for collective commitment to democratic governance as a foundation for stability. She highlighted the need for investment in democratic processes.
H.E Remy Ngoy Lumbu stressed the AU’s commitment to investigating ongoing rights violations in Sudan, encouraging submissions of reports on atrocities committed during the conflict. Coordination among AU bodies is vital to ensure peace and justice for affected citizens.
H.E Lawrence Korbandy pushed for redefining governance concepts to fit the African context, emphasizing community leadership’s role in peace-building. He urged inclusive dialogue with political parties, civil societies, and broader community involvement for effective outcomes.
Amb. Natalina Edward Mou reaffirmed the commitment to democratic governance and collaboration among AU members. The Sub-Committee plans to propose decisions to enhance the AGA-APSA Platform’s capabilities and improve coordination on governance issues.
Other leaders, including representatives from ECOWAS and ECCAS, echoed calls for prompt resolution to the Sudan crisis. The AU Department released knowledge products to support informed policy-making in peace and security initiatives.
The recent High-Level Dialogue convened by the African Union underscores the intricate challenges facing Sudan as it grapples with a severe humanitarian crisis and ongoing conflict. Collective and coordinated efforts by AU organs, RECs, and local stakeholders are deemed critical for initiating inclusive dialogues aimed at establishing a civilian transitional government. The urgent need for a revised approach focusing on political solutions and reliable support mechanisms is clear amidst rising displacement and human rights violations in Sudan.
Original Source: www.peaceau.org
