Midrand, South Africa
Ugandan legislator Hon. Patrick Oshabe has called on the African Union (AU) and its peace and security organs to take a more proactive role in preventing conflicts across the continent. Oshabe, who is attending the Sixth Ordinary Session of the Pan-African Parliament in Midrand, South Africa, joined fellow representatives from across the continent in a debate on the State of Peace and Security in Africa.
In his address, Hon. Oshabe stressed that the AU must go beyond rhetoric and demonstrate real accountability in handling conflicts that continue to destabilize various regions of Africa. He urged the continental body to “take the lead in dealing with early warning signs of war before they escalate into full-blown crises.”
Citing the ongoing instability in Madagascar and Sudan, the Ugandan MP questioned what concrete measures have been taken by the AU and its peace organs to restore order and end the suffering of affected populations. “As a continental body, there is a need to show cause and accountability what mechanisms have been used to end these fragile and dehumanizing situations?” Oshabe asked.
He emphasized that the AU must intensify its mediation efforts by promoting dialogue, enforcing ceasefires, and supporting a return to constitutional order in conflict-torn nations. According to Oshabe, sustainable peace can only be achieved if the Union strengthens its preventive diplomacy and responds promptly to early signs of unrest.
Turning to the plight of Africa’s youth, particularly the Gen Z generation, Hon. Oshabe called for deliberate efforts to create employment opportunities and include young people in governance and decision-making processes. “Our youth are yearning to be heard. They are not only the future but also the present drivers of change,” he said.
He warned that ignoring the frustrations and aspirations of young Africans could fuel social unrest, adding that economic empowerment and civic participation were key to achieving lasting peace. “The African Union must read the early signs of discontent among the youth and address them before they translate into violence,” he urged.
The Sixth Ordinary Session of the Pan-African Parliament continues in Midrand, bringing together lawmakers from across Africa to deliberate on issues of peace, security, governance, and continental integration.