Gambiaj.com – (ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia) – The African Union (AU) has appointed Ambassador Jainaba Jagne of The Gambia as its new Special Envoy for Children Affected by Armed Conflict (CAAC), reinforcing the continental bloc’s commitment to protecting children in conflict and post-conflict situations.
The appointment was announced on Sunday by the Chairperson of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, through his spokesperson, Nuur Mohamud Sheekh.
The AU said the decision underscores its determination to strengthen advocacy and accountability mechanisms for children impacted by violence across Africa.
In her new role, Ambassador Jagne will lead efforts to advocate for the protection of children affected by armed conflict, coordinate responses among key stakeholders, and promote accountability for serious violations.
These include the recruitment and use of children by armed groups, forced displacement, and attacks on schools and hospitals.
She is expected to work closely with AU member states, regional economic communities, civil society organizations, and international partners to address these challenges and ensure stronger child protection frameworks on the continent.
According to the AU, the appointment aligns with its broader child protection agenda and is closely linked to long-term peacebuilding and development objectives. The role of the Special Envoy is intended to bridge immediate child protection interventions with sustainable development goals.
The AU noted that Ambassador Jagne has reaffirmed her commitment to the bloc’s key policy frameworks, including Africa’s Agenda for Children 2040: Fostering an Africa Fit for Children and Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.
Ambassador Jagne brings extensive experience in peace, security, and child welfare to the position. She previously served as The Gambia’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the AU and co-chaired the Africa Platform on Children Affected by Armed Conflict (AP-CAAC).
“Her leadership is expected to significantly safeguard the rights and well-being of millions of African children in situations of conflict,” the AU said.
The AU Commission has called on member states, regional bodies, and the international community to fully support the Special Envoy in carrying out her mandate, stressing that strong collaboration will be critical to protecting the rights and welfare of children affected by armed conflict across Africa.
