Africa-Press – Eswatini. At the 1330th meeting of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union held at the African Union headquarters, Minister of Foreign Affairs Senator Shakantu of the Kingdom of Eswatini emphasized the critical need for stability across Africa. She reiterated the understanding that instability in one region inevitably impacts others, undermining development gains and straining humanitarian systems.
Minister Shakantu underscored that conflict and insecurity hinder collective efforts to achieve the aim of “Silencing the Guns” and obstruct the aspirations delineated in Agenda 2063, which envisions a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Africa.
“The Kingdom of Eswatini reaffirms its strong commitment to African-led solutions to African challenges,” the Minister stated. She highlighted the central role of the Peace and Security Council in conflict prevention, management, and resolution. The Minister emphasized the importance of preventive diplomacy, early warning and action, mediation, and ongoing political engagement as essential tools for addressing emerging risks to avert the escalation of conflicts.
In her speech, Minister Shakantu also referred to the significance of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2719. This resolution addresses the need for predictable and sustainable financing for African Union-led peace support operations, a long-held request from the African Union. The effective operationalization of this resolution will enhance the Peace and Security Council’s capacity in implementing its mandates, boosting African ownership, and improving the effectiveness of peace operations.
As the Kingdom of Eswatini prepares to assume the Chairmanship of the Peace and Security Council for the month of March, the Minister expressed eagerness to collaborate with all Member States and the Commission to foster a prevention-driven and responsive Council. She emphasized the need to promote dialogue, address the underlying causes of conflict, and contribute to continental efforts towards “Silencing the Guns,” in alignment with Agenda 2063. Eswatini will takeover chairmanship from The Arab Republic of Egypt.
The Kingdom of Eswatini was elected as a member of the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC), representing the Southern Africa region in February 2025.
