In today’s complex world, the importance of utilizing local capacities in conflict resolution cannot be overstated. Many experts agree that leveraging one’s own resources and knowledge is often the key to achieving sustainable success. Prioritizing internal capabilities before seeking external assistance is essential, particularly in the context of conflict resolution.
When conflicts arise, attempting to resolve them through internal mechanisms is not only commendable but often more effective than inviting outside entities. Local stakeholders possess a deep understanding of the root causes of these issues, which outsiders may overlook. Moreover, they are typically more agreed to the specific cultural and social dynamics at play, enabling them to identify the most appropriate peace mechanisms for their unique situations.
This emphasis on local solutions has gained significant traction across the African continent in recent months. African leaders and pan-Africanists are increasingly advocating for self-reliance in addressing the continent’s challenges. This growing movement was prominently highlighted during the recent Continental Peace Conference held in Addis Ababa, where Ethiopian leaders and various speakers underscored the necessity of African nations resolving their own problems.
During his opening remark, President Taye Atske-Selassie emphasized the need for Africa to harness its own resources and solutions to tackle the challenges facing the continent.
Highlighting the continent’s ongoing conflicts, and stressed the importance of prioritizing dialogue and resolution, he pointed to successful initiatives, such as the indigenous national dialogue in Ethiopia, as examples of how Africa can lead its own peace-building efforts.
Taye expressed that Africa must move forward with a sense of urgency and purpose, recognizing its position as a vital geostrategic player in a rapidly changing global landscape. He urged African nations to prepare themselves to build robust systems of peace and prosperity, leveraging commerce and technology as key drivers of progress.
The President emphasized the critical role of development in establishing a foundation for sustainable peace. He argued that a prosperous Africa cannot exist without a strong commitment to peace, urging nations to work collectively towards integration and cooperation.
Despite the positive strides made, he noted that a crisis persists across the continent, complicating efforts to achieve lasting peace. He called for a transformative approach to peace and prosperity, advocating for Africa to become an active agent in generating and institutionalizing innovative ideas within its societies.
As the continent grapples with the impacts of climate change, Taye highlighted the urgency of addressing environmental challenges through sustainable practices. He criticized the global response to climate issues as inadequate and called for African nations to take charge of implementing effective solutions.
The President concluded with a call to action, encouraging African nations to mobilize their resources and workforce while remaining vigilant against the adverse effects of climate change.
African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, Ambassador Bankole Adeoye on his part highlighted the necessity of integrating peace, security, and development efforts, calling for robust collaboration among member states, regional economic communities, and global partners.
Referring to the African Union’s Agenda 2063, he underscored the importance of unity and democracy, stating, “We must strengthen our policy and pragmatic interventions by integrating peace, security, and sustainable development in all our endeavors.”
Durable peace is a license for prosperity, Adeoye concluded, reaffirming the African Union’s commitment to fostering a united and peaceful Africa.
Dr. Ramiz Alakbarov, UN Assistant Secretary-General and UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, emphasized the urgent need for African-led solutions to the continent’s challenges.
He urged participants to address the root causes of conflict and to seek amicable, peaceful resolutions to disputes. “We must focus on African solutions to African problems,” he emphasized, advocating for the integration of Africa’s rich traditions and indigenous knowledge into frameworks for conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and reconciliation.
Dr. Alakbarov called for investment in traditional systems that leverage Africa’s heritage, contributing to peace, stability, and harmony. He expressed the UN’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia in these efforts and stressed that national leadership, inclusivity, and ownership are critical for sustainable peace.
“Peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but the presence of justice,” he stated, highlighting the shared responsibility in building a future where peace underpins societal foundations.
“The world is at a crossroads,” he warned, noting that peace, stability, and security are essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Africa an area rich in potential yet often hindered by conflict. He pointed to the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which encapsulates the hopes and aspirations of the continent, and stressed the need for actionable strategies developed in partnership with governments, the private sector, and civil society.
Dr. Alakbarov highlighted that peace is vital not only for Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa but for the entire continent and the world. Without peace, significant progress on the SDGs and the realization of Africa’s development potential remain unattainable.
In conclusion, he urged all stakeholders to pursue inclusivity and equity while creating an environment conducive to the implementation of the SDGs. “Let us approach this endeavor holistically,” he stated, emphasizing the transformative potential of coordinated interventions for all especially women, men, and youth. “Today, let us recommit to taking bold steps toward a peaceful and prosperous Africa.”
To achieve durable peace across the African continent and foster sustainable development, it is imperative that solutions be led by Africans themselves, rather than relying on external interventions. This sentiment, echoed by experts such as Dr. Alakbarov, underscores the importance of harnessing indigenous capacities to address the continent’s challenges.
Africa has reached a pivotal moment where it can leverage its own resources and expertise to resolve conflicts and promote stability. Collective action among African nations is essential; unity and collaboration are vital for ensuring sustainable peace. The tranquillity of the continent is a prerequisite for any meaningful development initiatives, as stability fosters an environment conducive to growth.
The conferences have highlighted the significance of establishing a functional African Free Trade Area and promoting visa-free movement among African Union member states. Such initiatives not only enhance economic cooperation but also contribute to a peaceful and integrated continent. Ensuring peace is a fundamental aspect of addressing the current crises that plague various regions.
A noteworthy example of African-led conflict resolution is Ethiopia’s role in the Pretoria Peace Accord, which demonstrated that African nations can effectively resolve their own issues. This approach not only builds trust among countries but also reinforces the idea that Africans are capable of crafting their own solutions to the challenges they face.
BY EYUEL KIFLU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2024
