The African Union (AU), European Union (EU), and United States jointly issued a call for an immediate ceasefire and constructive dialogue between conflicting factions in Sudan. Speaking in Kampala, Uganda, following an East African regional bloc meeting, representatives of the three organizations emphasized the urgent need for peace amid escalating violence in Sudan, which has displaced 7 million people and deprived 19 million children of education.
The armed forces of Sudan and the rival Rapid Support Forces have been engaged in a power struggle since April, resulting in street battles in the capital and other regions, including the volatile Darfur area.
The AU, EU, U.S., and U.N. underscored the threat these conflicts pose to regional stability in the Horn of Africa. Michael Hammer, U.S. special envoy for the Horn of Africa, urged Sudan’s factions to adhere to international humanitarian law and uphold recent commitments to halt hostilities.
Simultaneously, the United Nations announced the commencement of the U.N. Fact-Finding Mission on Sudan, tasked with investigating human rights violations and breaches of international humanitarian law since April 15.
In addition to the Sudan crisis, the joint statement addressed rising tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia.
The AU, EU, and U.S. affirmed their commitment to recognizing Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, including the region of Somaliland. The recent agreement between landlocked Ethiopia and Somaliland, granting Ethiopia access to the sea, has heightened tensions.
Somaliland anticipates that this agreement will lead to Ethiopia recognizing it as an independent state, a move vehemently opposed by Somalia.
The international entities called for an end to the Somalia-Ethiopia tensions and emphasized the importance of dialogue to resolve differences.
By xamse
January 19, 2024
