AU allocates over $5 Million to strengthen peace and security initiatives across Africa

In a move towards enhancing peace and security on the African continent, the African Union Peace Fund (AUPF) has recently disbursed over $5 million to various pilot projects. The allocation, approved by the Board of Trustees comprising Eminent Persons and experts, aims to contribute to the realization of the fund’s objectives.

The disbursement is targeted towards financing activities authorized by competent AU Policy Organs, with a specific mandate to operationalize peace and security initiatives.

These initiatives fall within the scope of early warning and preventive diplomacy, designed to thwart the outbreak or escalation of violent conflicts. Additionally, the fund will support peace-making efforts, including the use of good offices, mediation, conciliation, and inquiry, to prevent, manage, or resolve intra- or inter-state conflicts.

To bolster their capacities in early warning, conflict prevention, mediation, and preventive diplomacy, the funds will be directed towards strengthening relevant mechanisms. This includes providing support to Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and Regional Mechanisms for Peace and Security (RMs) in fortifying financial and reporting systems.

The Peace Fund partnership emphasizes cross-cutting initiatives aimed at supporting RECs/RMs in their role within the broader peace and security framework. The funds allocated are strategically aligned with the AU’s commitment to maintaining stability and preventing conflicts on the continent.

The Peace Fund is designated to finance various types of Peace Support Operations (PSOs) and actions authorized by either the Assembly or the Peace and Security Council (PSC). These actions may be delivered by the AU, RECs/RMs, or a coalition of Member States, depending on the specific mandates.

The AU Peace Fund, established in June 1993, serves as a crucial operational tool to finance peace and security activities within the African Union (AU).