By African View Staff Writer
June 12, 2025
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The United Republic of Tanzania has assumed the chairmanship of the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council (PSC) for June 2025, a critical role during a period of mounting security challenges across the continent.
Ambassador Innocent Eugene Shio, Tanzania’s envoy to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union and UNECA, announced the country’s leadership of the council this month. Ambassador Shio, who is also chairing the Council at the ambassadorial level, emphasized Tanzania’s commitment to multilateral-ism, African-led solutions, and inclusive peace building.
“This important responsibility comes at a time when Africa continues to confront complex and evolving peace and security challenges that demand coordinated and decisive continental responses,” said Shio during the opening of the June program.
Ambassador Shio revealed that under Tanzania’s leadership, the AU Peace and Security Council will host six ambassadorial-level sessions throughout June, focusing on both thematic issues and country-specific conflicts.
Strengthening Ammunition Control and Regional Security
The first session, held on June 4, focused on enhancing coordination between global and regional mechanisms for arms and ammunition control. The session highlighted efforts to align the UN Global Framework for Conventional Ammunition Management, adopted in December 2023, with Africa’s existing regional frameworks, such as the Nairobi and Kinshasa Conventions.
“This alignment is critical in addressing the enduring challenges posed by the illicit proliferation and misuse of small arms and light weapons,” noted Shio.
Updates on Lake Chad and South Sudan
On June 10, the Council reviewed the situation in the Lake Chad Basin, evaluating the activities of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) and the implementation of the regional stabilization strategy. This session reaffirmed the AU’s collective commitment to peace and resilience in conflict-affected zones.
A crucial third session, set for June 12, will assess the political and security developments in South Sudan, including the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict. The Council will explore ways to prevent escalation, restore dialogue, and ensure the integrity of the peace process.
“All parties must refrain from actions that jeopardize the agreement, which remains the legitimate foundation for South Sudan’s transitional arrangements and electoral preparations,” Shio stressed.
Reflecting on Two Decades of African Defense Policy
On June 17, the Council will mark 20 years since the adoption of the Common African Defense and Security Policy. The session will provide a comprehensive review of its implementation and relevance in addressing threats such as armed insurgencies, unconstitutional changes of government, and external interference.
Key areas under discussion will include early warning mechanisms, post-conflict reconstruction, and regional defense cooperation.
Promoting Human Rights and Regional Peace
A consultative meeting with the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights is scheduled for June 19, focusing on integrating human rights into peace and security efforts. This collaboration aims to ensure conflict-affected communities are at the heart of Africa’s peace building strategies.
The final session on June 25 will evaluate the implementation of decisions concerning the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, in partnership with the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC). The meeting follows up on resolutions from the EAC-SADC Joint Summit held in February 2025.
A People-Centered Approach to Peacekeeping
Ambassador Shio concluded by reaffirming Tanzania’s dedication to a holistic and inclusive approach to peace and security:
“Tanzania brings a legacy of principled diplomacy and a people-centered approach to peacekeeping. Throughout our tenure, we will prioritize inclusive dialogue, evidence-based policy making, and upholding of African solutions to African problems.”
As Tanzania steers the Council through a critical month, its leadership could play a defining role in advancing durable peace on the continent.
Source: https://amaniafrica-et.org
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