Peace Fund to Tackle Sudan Crisis and Strengthen ATMIS
AU Peace Fund Logo
In a remarkable step toward promoting peace and stability on the African continent, the African Union (AU) has announced the operationalization of its Peace Fund, with a focus on addressing the Sudan crisis and bolstering the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) in 2023.
Recognizing the dire situation in Sudan, the AU Peace Fund has allocated US$5 million from the Crisis Reserve Facility as direct support to intervene in the ongoing crisis. Sudan, faced with challenges beyond its own capacity, has met the eligibility criteria for emergency intervention. The allocated funds will contribute to restoring stability and peace to the affected populations, providing a glimmer of hope for a better future.
About the AU Peace Fund
Established in 1993, the Peace Fund has undergone several reforms and expansions over the years to enhance its effectiveness and impact. It is structured with three thematic support windows and a Crisis Reserve Facility, aims to provide targeted assistance in various areas crucial to maintaining peace. These windows include Mediation and Preventive Diplomacy, Institutional Capacity, and the AU Peace Support Operations Window. Additionally, the Crisis Reserve Facility is designed to swiftly address urgent peace and security requirements that demand rapid and flexible responses.
During an extraordinary meeting held on May 26, 2023, the AU Peace Fund Board of Trustees recommended an increase in the Crisis Reserve Facility to US$10 million for the year 2023/2024. This decision followed the AU Peace and Security Council’s determination to raise the ceiling of the Crisis Reserve Facility, enabling the AU to effectively address emergency peace and security challenges across the continent.
The Board of Trustees, comprising eminent individuals from Nigeria, South Africa, Central African Republic, Ethiopia, the European Union, and the United Nations, plays a pivotal role in ensuring strategic coherence, enhanced governance, and financial and administrative oversight of the Peace Fund. The Board, joined by the Executive Management Committee at the AU Commission, led by Dr. Monique Nsanzabaganwa, Deputy Chairperson, Amb. Bankole Adeoye, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, and Dagmawit Moges Bekele, Director of the Peace Fund Secretariat, aims to ensure efficient and transparent utilization of the funds.
The AU Peace Fund draws its resources from various contributors, including AU member states, international and intergovernmental organizations, non-member countries, public and private entities, individuals, and through resource mobilization activities. It is hoped that the fund’s operations will adhere to regulations, rules, and procedures approved by the Board of Trustees, ensuring responsible and accountable management.
