Prez Mahama backs $1B AU Peace Fund, demands sustainable African-led security financing

President John Dramani Mahama has urged for a quicker mobilization of resources from the African Union Peace Fund in order to bolster the continent's ability to prevent and respond to conflicts. Addressing the 21st Extraordinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government on August 30, Mahama emphasized the importance of effectively utilizing the 0.2% import levy to ensure a steady funding source for Africa's peace and security operations.

He highlighted that the continent's ongoing and evolving conflicts necessitate the stronger implementation of existing peace and security mechanisms, backed by dependable and forecastable funding. "Early warning must lead to early action, and early action demands resources that are accessible in a timely and predictable manner," Mahama stated.

He appreciated the advancements made towards implementing the AU Peace Fund and expressed his backing for its ongoing capitalization towards the $1 billion objective. Mahama stressed that sufficient funding would be vital for the continent's peace architecture to respond swiftly to emerging threats. He also advocated for greater resource mobilization from African financial institutions, the private sector, and other domestic sources.

According to Mahama, decreasing dependence on external financing would enhance Africa's capacity to assume control of its peace and security agenda and respond more effectively to conflicts.