Zambia calls for stronger conflict prevention mechanisms in Africa

Zambia has called for greater investment in conflict prevention across Africa, emphasizing that preventing conflict before it starts is more effective and cost-effective than rebuilding nations after instability. Speaking on behalf of President Elect Hakainde Hichilema at the…

Zambia has called for greater investment in conflict prevention across Africa, emphasizing that preventing conflict before it starts is more effective and cost-effective than rebuilding nations after instability.

Speaking on behalf of President Elect Hakainde Hichilema at the 26th Extraordinary Session of the African Union Executive Council in Luanda, Angola, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Zambia to Angola, Elias Munshya, said conflict prevention must be placed at the centre of Africa’s peace and security agenda.

Dr Munshya said preventing conflict before it begins is more effective, more humane and less costly than rebuilding communities and nations after they have suffered the consequences of instability.

He welcomed the growing role of the African Union Peace Fund, which has disbursed approximately 31 million United States dollars toward peace and security interventions across the continent.

Dr Munshya called for continued investment in early warning systems, early response, preventive diplomacy, mediation and peacebuilding and peace support operations to address threats before they escalate.

The Ambassador also welcomed the implementation of the African Union Peace Fund Mobilisation Strategy for 2025 to 2026, noting the progress being made toward greater African ownership of peace and security priorities.

Dr Munshya reiterated that while international and regional partnerships remain valuable, such support must complement, not replace, the responsibility of African Member States for the peace and security of the continent.

He reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to multilateralism, preventive diplomacy, peaceful resolution of disputes and collective security under the framework of the African Union and the United Nations Charter.

The 26th Extraordinary Session of the AU Executive Council focused on strengthening mechanisms for conflict prevention and resolution in Africa, with member states deliberating on ways to enhance the continent’s capacity to respond to emerging threats.

This is contained in a statement availed to the media by the  Zambian Embassy in Angola.