AU reaffirms push for immediate, permanent ceasefire in Sudan and Eastern DRC

The African Union has renewed its commitment to ending conflicts in Sudan and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, placing an immediate and permanent ceasefire at the centre of its diplomatic efforts.

Addressing journalists after the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government, the AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, said African leaders focused on concrete measures to silence the guns and strengthen the continent’s peace and security architecture.

On eastern DRC, Ambassador Adeoye confirmed that the AU mediator, Faure Gnassingbé, presented a detailed report on progress since his appointment.

Mediation efforts are being reinforced by a panel of facilitators and supported by the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community.

The AU has aligned its engagement with diplomatic initiatives in Doha and Washington, welcoming international support while maintaining that African-led mediation remains central.

Ambassador Adeoye noted that eight agreements have been signed under those processes and stressed the importance of securing a permanent ceasefire.

He called on all armed actors, including M23, to end hostilities that continue to inflict hardship on civilians.

He added that the AU is promoting an inclusive inter-Congolese dialogue aimed at securing a sustainable political settlement, describing eastern DRC as a top priority for the Union.

Turning to Sudan, Ambassador Adeoye described the crisis as the worst humanitarian situation globally and reaffirmed the AU’s roadmap, anchored on a permanent ceasefire, humanitarian access, coordinated international engagement, prevention of regional spillover and inclusive civilian political dialogue.

The AU Peace and Security Council met at ministerial level on 12 February ahead of the summit to reaffirm these principles and strengthen coordination with the United Nations, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, the League of Arab States and the European Union.

He stressed that diplomatic pressure remains focused on achieving a permanent, unconditional and inclusive ceasefire, while preparations are being considered to support the implementation of any future peace agreement.

Responding to questions on unconstitutional changes of government, Ambassador Adeoye reiterated the AU’s zero-tolerance policy. Six member states remain suspended following military takeovers.

He acknowledged the need to address governance challenges and youth frustration, underlining that the Assembly remains a forum of democratically elected leaders committed to constitutional order and the rule of law.

On global governance, he renewed Africa’s call for reform of the UN Security Council. He congratulated the Democratic Republic of Congo and Liberia for joining the African members currently serving on the Council, alongside Somalia.

Reaffirming Africa’s position under the Ezulwini Consensus, he said the continent seeks permanent representation with veto powers to reflect current geopolitical realities.

“The Security Council must reflect the world of today,” he said, emphasising that Africa’s 54 member states in the UN deserve a stronger and more legitimate voice in global peace and security decisions.

Ambassador Adeoye also addressed concerns about pressures on multilateralism, stating that the AU remains committed to a rules-based international order grounded in the UN Charter and its own Constitutive Act.

He pointed to ongoing reforms within the Peace and Security Council, including efforts championed by William Ruto, aimed at strengthening responsiveness and effectiveness.

As the summit concluded, he reaffirmed that silencing the guns by 2030 remains a central objective and expressed confidence that sustained African leadership, working in partnership with regional and international actors, can deliver lasting peace and stability across the continent.