Addis Ababa, 18 November 2025
The African Union has renewed its call for an African-led solution to the war in Sudan, emphasizing that no external actor should fuel the conflict and that the AU must remain central to both mediation and long-term stabilization efforts.
The message was delivered during a high-level media luncheon hosted by Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, as part of the Fifth African Union Awareness Week on Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development (PCRD). The week-long commemoration aims to highlight the AU’s achievements in supporting countries emerging from conflict and to reaffirm its commitment to stabilization, democratic governance, and recovery across the continent.
A Critical Moment for Sudan
Sudan’s war now one of Africa’s most devastating crises featured prominently in the Commissioner’s briefing. Ambassador Adeoye underscored that the AU is intensifying engagements with all parties to secure a ceasefire and restore political dialogue.
“We condemn unequivocally all forms of external interference in Sudan or in any part of our continent… African solutions to African problems is what we live by. The African Union must be a part of the solutions to this complex set of challenges we face on the continent.”
The Commissioner stressed that the AU is not seeking permission to lead but asserting its rightful role as the continent’s premier peace and security body.
AU Demands Greater Space in Peace Processes
In his remarks, Ambassador Adeoye said the AU must be at the center of all negotiations and peace arrangements whether in Sudan, the Sahel, or elsewhere.
“The African Union must be in the lead… We are not begging for this space. It is a demand we think is a right for the African Union to be part of finding durable structural solutions.”
He emphasized that peace is not only about signing agreements but ensuring full implementation and follow-through. The AU, he added, is engaging all sides through both public diplomacy and quiet diplomacy.
Towards a Comprehensive Ceasefire in Sudan
Ambassador Adeoye reaffirmed the AU’s support for the newly formed Quad comprising the United States, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates while insisting that the AU remains fully involved.
He reiterated the Union’s objective:
“Our goal is not just a humanitarian ceasefire. It is a comprehensive, unconditional, all-out ceasefire that will allow political dialogue between all parties… We are working without fail to make sure peace returns to Sudan.”
The Commissioner described Sudan as a “tragedy arising from a failed transition,” stressing that the people of Sudan deserve stability after years of conflict.
Zero Tolerance for Atrocity Crimes
Addressing reports of atrocities in Darfur and other conflict zones, Ambassador Adeoye reaffirmed the AU’s legal and moral commitment to protecting civilians.
“We do not condone crimes against humanity, war crimes, or genocide. We support the investigation of alleged crimes in Darfur. Perpetrators will be brought to book.”
He highlighted the appointment of the AU’s first Special Envoy on the Prevention of Mass Atrocities and Genocide, Mr. Adama Dieng, who has already engaged with Sudan and neighboring countries.
Part of a Larger AU Peace and Governance Agenda
While Sudan dominated the briefing, the Commissioner also addressed broader AU priorities, including:
- Conflict prevention and early warning,
- Counter-terrorism and strengthening security capacities,
- Democracy, governance, and inclusive election observation,
- Support for countries in political transition, including Madagascar, Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
The AU continues to push its flagship Agenda 2063 goal to “Silence the Guns”, backed by a full mid-term review and ongoing reforms championed by Kenyan President William Ruto.
AU Stands Firm: No More Wars, No More Excuses
Ambassador Adeoye closed with a firm commitment that the AU will neither tolerate new conflicts nor accept impunity for atrocities.
“All conflicts must end on our continent. We are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel to revamp and re-energize our response to these enormous challenges.”
As Sudan’s war continues to destabilize the region, the AU’s message is clear: peace must be African-led, accountability must be enforced, and the suffering of civilians cannot continue.
