KBC Channel 1

Tag: African Union Commission (AUC)

  • AU condemns coordinated attacks by armed groups in Mali

    AU condemns coordinated attacks by armed groups in Mali

    The African Union Commission has condemned coordinated attacks launched in Mali by armed groups targeting the capital, Bamako, as well as other urban areas across the country.

    Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said he is following the developments with deep concern, noting that they place civilians at great risk.

    He issued the statement in the wake of explosions and sustained gunfire, as armed groups launched coordinated attacks across the country.

    The military on Saturday said the”fighting is ongoing”, adding “our defence and security forces are currently engaged in repelling the attackers

    AUC reaffirmed its commitment to the promotion of peace, security, good governance, and stability in Mali.

    “The Chairperson strongly condemns these acts, which risk exposing civilian populations to significant harm, and reaffirms the Commission’s steadfast commitment to the promotion of peace, security, good governance, and stability in Mali”, it said.

    The Chairperson further expressed his full solidarity with the people of Mali, the security forces and the national authorities.

    Mali’s military said it is fighting unidentified “terrorist groups” and the situation was under control, but unconfirmed reports suggest fighting continues.

    Videos circulating on social media suggest involvement of the jihadist group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and Tuareg Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) rebels.

    Mali is currently ruled by a military junta led by Gen Assimi Goïta, who first seized power in a coup in 2020, promising to restore security and push back armed groups.

    The junta had popular support when it took power, promising to deal with the long-running security crisis prompted by a separatist rebellion in the north by ethnic Tuaregs, which was then hijacked by Islamist militants.

    The UN peacekeeping mission and French forces had been deployed in 2013 to deal with the escalating insurgency.

    Both have left since the junta took over, and the military government has hired Russian mercenaries to tackle the insecurity.

    However, the jihadist insurgency has continued and large parts of the north and east of the country remain outside government control.

    Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso recently left the West African bloc Ecowas to form the Alliance of Sahel States.

     

    Additional reporting by BBC

  • African Union, ACBF, AUDA-NEPAD launch call for proposals to strengthen Africa’s policy research capacity

    African Union, ACBF, AUDA-NEPAD launch call for proposals to strengthen Africa’s policy research capacity

    The African Union Commission (AUC), in collaboration with the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) and AUDA-NEPAD, has launched a competitive Call for Proposals under the Africa Think Tank Platform (ATTP).

    The call for proposals that was issued under the Africa Think Tank Platform (ATTP), invites consortia of 3 to 5 African think tanks to pursue multi – year funding for collaborative, policy-relevant research across six thematic areas, including economic transformation and governance, climate change, regional trade, food security, human capital development, and digitalization.

    The initiative aims to position African think tanks as key architects of cross-border development policy with assistance from the World Bank that will provide strategic funding support for the ground-breaking program.

    Speaking during the launch event at African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Selma Malika Haddadi, the Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, noted that the platform is an affirmation of the commitment to ensuring African institutions and actors shape the continent’s development trajectory.

    “This Platform is not a stand-alone initiative,” she said. “It is an affirmation of our commitment to ensuring African institutions and actors are at the forefront of shaping the continent’s development trajectory.” Said Haddadi.

    She highlighted the initiative’s broader vision by stating, “This represents a  strategic investment in Africa’s ability to lead its own policy conversations with rigor,  data, and indigenous expertise.”

    Between three and five consortia will be selected and receive grants of approximately US$10 million for up to two and a half (2.5) years to support programs aligned with the aspirations of Agenda 2063 and regional integration priorities.

    Haddadi lauded the World Bank’s support describing it as a strategic partnership that reinforces African ownership in development planning and accountability.

    On his part, Director, Programs and Impact Department, ACBF Abdrahmane Dicko, underscored the project as a moment to redefine Africa’s future on Africa’s own terms.

    “For over 33 years, ACBF has built the backbone of Africa’s policy excellence by establishing and supporting over 50 think tanks on the continent. The ATTP Project is coming at the right time and represents a bold investment in the institutions that shape our continent’s destiny, namely the think tanks.” Dicko noted.

    Adding that: “This is the first significant investment directed to think tanks after the closure, in 2017, of the World Bank project managed by ACBF. We are proud to work via such a unique partnership, ensuring the Project becomes a source of sustainable capacity, not just funding.”

    Samer Al-Samarrai, Lead Economist, World Bank remarked that the Call for Proposals will provide competitive Only grants for think tanks to conduct policy research, support policy uptake, and build institutional capacity.

    According to Samer, the proposals and analysis generated under this initiative have the potential to inform homegrown, evidence-based policies that improve economic performance, strengthen regional cooperation, and contribute to sustainable reduction in poverty.

    “I encourage eligible think tanks to review the requirements carefully, form effective consortia, and submit strong proposals.” Samer noted.

    Application Timeline

    The call for proposals marks the first operational phase of the ATTP, aiming to establish a continent-wide network of authoritative institutions that produce evidence-based knowledge, engage decision-makers, and contribute to unified policy frameworks.

    The deadline of submitting the proposals is on 24 September 2025, while the Evaluation and Selection  process will conclude by 17th October 2025. Once the selection and evaluation concludes, applicants can expect the award notification by 14th November. Further successful applicants expect an anticipated to occur on 19th of December 2025.

    There will be regular webinars as well as help desk that will support applicants throughout the process.

    Think tanks interested in applying are encouraged to review the full application on https://africathinktankplatform.africa/callforproposal.

     

  • AU, IGAD reaffirm support for South Sudan’s peace, democratic transition

    AU, IGAD reaffirm support for South Sudan’s peace, democratic transition

    The African Union Commission (AUC) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) jointly reaffirm their unwavering support for South Sudan in the ongoing efforts towards peace, national unity, democratic governance, and sustainable development.

    This came during a two day official visit to Juba, 5 to 6 May 2025, by the Chairperson of the African Union Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf in close coordination with IGAD, to engage with South Sudanese authorities and key stakeholders on the evolving political and security situation and the status of the peace process.

    The visit comes at a pivotal moment as South Sudan advances through its transitional period under the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).

    While in Juba, the Chairperson held high-level consultations with President Salva Kiir Mayardit and other senior government officials with discussions focusing on: Preserving the hard-won gains of the peace agreement, fostering inclusive national dialogue and consensus, supporting the timely, credible, and transparent implementation of the transitional roadmap; as well as strengthening governance institutions.

    In addition, the Chairperson engaged with regional and international partners, including the African diplomatic corps and TROIKA representatives, to enhance coordination and reinforce a unified approach to supporting South Sudan’s transition.

    The AUC and IGAD emphasize that peace, stability, and inclusive governance are indispensable foundations for South Sudan’s sustainable development and regional integration.

    They further underline the need for mutual trust, national cohesion, respect for political and civic space, and continued commitment to dialogue and compromise.

    Both organizations pledged continued collaboration with South Sudan’s government, civil society, and international allies to ensure the effective implementation of the R-ARCSS and to support the nation’s path toward unity, resilience, and prosperity.

    “The African Union and IGAD remain fully committed to working collaboratively with the Government and people of South Sudan as well as international and regional partners to safeguard peace, uphold the principles of the R-ARCSS, and support a future grounded in unity, resilience, and prosperity.” They jointly noted.

  • AU welcomes outcomes of Doha trilateral meeting on Eastern DRC crisis

    AU welcomes outcomes of Doha trilateral meeting on Eastern DRC crisis

    The African Union Commission (AUC) has welcomed the outcomes of the trilateral meeting held in Doha, Qatar Tuesday, on the ongoing Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) crisis. 

    The high-level meeting that brought together President Paul Kagame of Rwanda and President Félix Tshisekedi of DRC and hosted under the auspices of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani was aimed at advancing peace and stability in the conflict-affected DRC.

    In a statement, the Chairperson of the AUC, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf commended Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi noting that their engagement reflects true leadership.

    “The Chairperson commends the Statesmen of the DRC and Rwanda for their commitment to dialogue and peaceful resolution of the crisis in Eastern DRC. Their engagement reflects true leadership and a shared recognition that peace, security, and stability are indispensable for the prosperity of their nations and the wider Great Lakes region.” The statement read.

    Similarly, Youssouf expressed his appreciation to the State of Qatar and His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani for their efforts in facilitating dialogue and confidence-building.

    Youssouf acknowledged the reaffirmation by both leaders of their commitment to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, as agreed during the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit in Dar es Salaam on 8 February 2025.

    The Heads of State then agreed on the need to continue the discussions initiated in Doha in order to establish solid foundations for lasting peace as envisioned in the Luanda/Nairobi process, now merged and/or aligned.

    He remarked that the African Union remains resolute in its support for African-led solutions to African challenges, as embodied in the Luanda and Nairobi processes.

    The AU Chairperson said: “The Doha discussions, held in a spirit of constructive engagement, align with these efforts and complement ongoing regional mechanisms.”

    He emphasized the importance of continued coordination between the African Union, regional economic communities, and international partners in fostering sustainable peace.

    Further he urged all stakeholders to maintain the momentum generated in Doha and to work collectively toward the full implementation of agreed commitments.

    “The AUC stands ready to support and accompany these efforts, in line with its mandate to promote peace, security, and stability across the continent.” He added.

     

    Also read https://www.kbc.co.ke/mudavadi-calls-for-urgent-action-to-address-drc-crisis/

     

  • Kenya congratulates new African Union Commission leadership

    Kenya congratulates new African Union Commission leadership

    The Government of Kenya has acknowledged the outcome of the African Union Commission (AUC) elections held during the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Monday.

    In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs extended heartfelt congratulations to H.E. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, the newly elected Chairperson of the African Union Commission, and to Ambassador Selma Malika Hadadi, who has been appointed Deputy Chairperson, along with all the newly appointed Commissioners.

    The statement further expressed confidence in the new leadership, emphasizing that under their guidance, the African Union will be well-positioned to steer the continent toward achieving the ambitious goals outlined in Agenda 2063.

    “We are confident that under the new leadership, the Union will rise to the demanding calling of steering the continent towards attaining the ambitious Agenda 2063,” the statement read.

    The Government also took the opportunity to celebrate the campaign of Kenya’s candidate for AUC Chair, former Prime Minister Right Hon. Dr. Raila Amollo Odinga.

    The statement highlighted how Dr. Odinga’s campaign inspired hope and passion across Africa, noting his representation of Kenya with great respect, dignity, and resilience throughout the process.

    “Dr. Odinga’s campaign was a demonstration of true statesmanship. At every stage, he exhibited unparalleled leadership and commitment, reflecting Kenya’s dedication to advancing continental cooperation,” the statement continued.

    The Government of Kenya also expressed its sincere gratitude to all African Union member states that supported Dr. Odinga’s candidacy, acknowledging their significant contributions to his campaign.

    As Kenya continues to play an integral role in shaping Africa’s future, the country remains committed to supporting the African Union’s vision for a united and prosperous continent.

  • Wetang’ula clarifies MPs’ self-funded trip for AUC election

    Wetang’ula clarifies MPs’ self-funded trip for AUC election

    National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has dismissed media reports claiming that Parliament funded the travel of at least 100 MPs to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, ahead of the African Union Commission (AUC) election, where former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is vying for the chairperson position.

    Addressing the House on Thursday, Wetang’ula clarified that he had received notifications from around 40 MPs intending to travel, in line with parliamentary standing orders.

    He emphasized that these members are attending the event in their private capacities to support Odinga’s bid and are not funded by taxpayers.

    “The official Parliamentary delegation comprises only four members. The additional 40 MPs are travelling as private citizens and leaders, financing their own expenses. We commend them for undertaking this patriotic duty,” Wetang’ula stated.

    He dismissed accusations that Parliament had allocated resources for the trip, defending MPs’ right to attend international events at their own cost.

    “There has been a barrage of claims suggesting that Parliament sent 100 MPs to Addis Ababa. The truth is, if all 100 members decided to travel and could afford to sponsor themselves, that is their right. However, Parliament does not have the resources to fund such a trip,” he said.

    Acknowledging the high cost of travel and accommodation in Addis Ababa, he praised the MPs who have chosen to finance their attendance.

    “Let’s appreciate those who have taken it upon themselves to fund their travel. Addis Ababa is among the most expensive cities in Africa, with hotel rates averaging between $400 and $500 per night. Their patriotism deserves recognition,” he added.

    Wetang’ula concluded by wishing Raila Odinga success in the upcoming AUC election, recalling their long-standing political journey since entering Parliament together in 1992.

  • PAP MPs demand involvement in election of next AUC Chair

    PAP MPs demand involvement in election of next AUC Chair

    Members of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) have demanded greater involvement of the Continental Legislative body in the processes leading to the election of the next Chairperson of the Africa Union Commission (AUC).

    Leading the charge, Senator Danson Mungatana, leader of the Kenyan delegation to the Pan-African Parliament, stressed the need for the contestants vying to lead the African Union Commission to address the representatives of the people of Africa on their vision for the Continent.

    He was of the opinion that the Pan-African Parliament should work collaboratively with the African Union Commission to invite the contestants to address the Pan-African Parliament on their vision and manifesto for the AUC Chairpersonship.

    The call by Senator Mungatana, which was supported by other MPs, was aligned with the mandate of the Pan-African Parliament to ensure the full participation of African peoples in the economic development and integration of the continent.

    The PAP is intended as a platform for people from all African states to be involved in discussions and decision-making on the problems and challenges facing the continent.

    The election process of the African Union Commission is underway with the call for interested candidates to submit, to their member states, their curriculum vitae, along with vision statements outlining how they intend to advance the transformative agenda of the African Union and to address the existing and emerging challenges facing the continent.

    The elections will take place in February 2025 during the African Union Summit. All eight (8) Senior leadership positions of the AU Commission are open for candidates’ submissions guided by the regional allocation of the portfolios.

    The positions include that of the Chairperson, the Deputy Chairperson, and 6 Commissioner posts.

    Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is in the race for the top post. He will face off with Djibouti Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssou, former Mauritius Foreign Minister  Anil Kumarsingh Gayan, and Richard James Randriamandrato, a former Madagascar Foreign Minister.

    EXPLAINER-THE ELECION PROCESS

    The February 2025 election process will be based on the principle of inter-regional rotation that dictates that: The Eastern region will submit both male and female candidates for the role of Chairperson.

    The Northern region will submit both male and female candidates for the role of Deputy Chairperson. The remaining three regions (Central, Southern, and Western regions) will submit at least two candidates (one female and one male) for the six portfolios of Commissioners.

    The African Union Commission elections are conducted as follows; the Assembly of Heads of State and Government elects the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson. The Ministerial Executive Council elects the Commissioners, who are appointed by the Assembly. Gender rotation is considered in the elections such that if the Chairperson is male, a female is elected as the Deputy Chairperson and vice versa.

    The Commission elected senior leadership members to serve for a term of four years, renewable once.

    Ahead of the elections conducted in a secret ballot, candidates vying for the position of the Chairperson of the Commission participate in a televised debate broadcasted LIVE to African citizens.

    The Africa Leadership Debate dubbed MjadalaAfrika is a platform that provides candidates an opportunity to outline their vision of how they will lead the transformation of Africa through the implementation of the AU Mandate and Africa’s Agenda 2063.

    The debate allows African citizens and other stakeholders to put forward questions to the candidates on issues they want to be addressed on how to propel the continent’s growth and ensure Africa achieves its goals for integrated and sustainable development and becoming a major player in the Global Arena.

    The African Union election process is guided by principles that ensure there is equitable regional representation, gender parity, attracting and retaining Africa’s top talent, accountable and effective leadership and management, and transparent and merit-based selection.

     

    SOURCE: PAN AFRICAN PARLIAMENT

  • African youth leaders drum up support for Raila’s AUC bid

    African youth leaders drum up support for Raila’s AUC bid

    A coalition of youth organizations and stakeholder groups from across Africa has endorsed the candidacy of Raila Odinga for the position of African Union Commission (AUC) Chairman.

    In a joint statement issued by the Pan African Youth Convention and Cross-section of Africa Major Youth Stakeholder Groups, the youth hailed Raila’s deep-rooted Pan-Africanism, visionary leadership and his track record of public service across Africa.

    According to the group, Raila’s experience as a former Prime Minister of Kenya and African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development uniquely positions him to tackle the continent’s most pressing challenges particularly the Africa Union Agenda 2063.

    “We firmly believe that the African youth bulge is the tide that will keep the African boat afloat as it roars towards transformation and progress but this will only happen if talent and skill meets opportunity,” the statement reads.

    “Hon Raila Odinga has an authentic vision buttressed by superior ideas on how to steer the African Renaissance. He refuses to shy away from the very real challenges of Africa; he is optimistic, solid and fervent with a fire burning in his belly to cause progressive change across the continent.”

    The endorsement was backed by youth from 15 countries, including Sierra Leone, Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, Zambia, Tanzania, Kenya, Togo, DRC, South Sudan, Mozambique, Central African Republic.

    Raila is facing off with Djibouti’s Mohamoud Youssouf, Anil Gayan (Mauritius) and Richard Randriamandrato (Madagascar) for AUC Chairmanship.

    The position will become vacant in February 2025, when the current Chair, Moussa Faki Mahamat of Chad, completes his second term.

    The AUC elections will be held in February next year during the African Union Summit.