The Permanent Representative of the Republic of The Gambia to the African Union, H.E. Jainaba Jagne, has today highlighted the significance of commemorating the 20th Anniversary of the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union. The Gambian Diplomat was speaking in a media engagement at the Mwalimu Nyerere Political Affairs, Peace, and Security Building in Addis Ababa.

Ambassador Jagne, standing in as Chairperson of the PSC for the month of April 2024, expressed gratitude to the media for their attendance and stressed the importance of their role in promoting peace and security in Africa. She emphasized the PSC’s commitment to peace and security on the continent, citing its active engagement in conflict situations and the issuance of decisions to resolve them.

The PSC was established in March 2003, following the adoption of the Protocol Relating to the establishment of the PSC of the AU in 2002, with its official launch on 25th May 2004. Ambassador Jagne noted that the 20th Anniversary celebrations would include events until December 2024, to mark this milestone. She highlighted the PSC’s role in advancing the AU’s Agenda 2063, despite challenges such as terrorism, violent extremism, illicit arms trafficking, and political tensions.

Furthermore, Ambassador Jagne praised the efforts of the PSC in developing the ‘AU Master Roadmap on Practical Steps to Silence the Guns in Africa’, endorsed by the AU Assembly in 2017. She also mentioned the success of the ‘African Amnesty Month’ initiative, aimed at mobilizing civilians to surrender arms voluntarily.

In conclusion, Ambassador Jagne called for reflection on the achievements made by the PSC in its 20 years of existence and reiterated The Gambia’s commitment to promoting good governance and democratic consolidation for a peaceful and prosperous Africa.

The media briefing marks the beginning of a series of events planned to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the PSC, showcasing the PSC’s achievements and contributions to peace and security in Africa over the past two decades.