2022

DDR and SSR 2022

• The Commission supported Member States in strategic peace and Security areas contributing to conflict prevention efforts. Member States undergoing stabilization and in political transition were specifically supported to reform the governance of the security sector. This included support to strengthen and revitalize their security sector reform processes. Countries supported include; The Gambia, the Kingdom of Lesotho, Madagascar and Mali.
• As part of the support to Member States to address threats posed by Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs), the AU Commission, in partnership with the International Campaign to Abolish nuclear weapons (ICAN), held a meeting of Member States Experts on the Treaty on the Prohibition of nuclear weapons (TPNW), on 10 March 2022. The meeting provided a forum to promote the African nuclear weapons Free Zone Treaty (Treaty of Pelindaba) as the Continent's key instrument on nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation, and to promote the peaceful application of nuclear science and technology for health, agriculture, industrialization, education and other peaceful uses.

2022

Addressing the Proliferation of Illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons (done)

• Illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) are a pervasive threat to peace, security and stability in the Continent because they continue to be a major enabler of armed violence in the continent. Criminal groups, terrorists and insurgents alike rely on illicit SALW to carry out armed attacks on both innocent civilians and security sources. With the growth and changing nature of conflicts in the continent, the nature of weapons trafficked in these conflicts has been diverse -- including not only small arms and light weapons, but also rocket launchers, grenades and explosives in large quantities. Whereas most of these arms and ammunition have been in circulation within the region for years if not decades, the impact of foreign terrorist fighters has contributed an increase in their availability. The vast porous borders in the Continent enable trafficking by criminals and terrorists.
• It is recognized in the AU Master Roadmap of Practical Steps to Silence the Guns in Africa that the illicit inflow of arms/weapons into the Continent is a challenge to peace and security. In this regard, the Commission continues to support the efforts of Member States to fight this scourge as a contribution to sustaining transitions from war to peace, and to prevent relapses back into the cycle of armed violence. This includes through developing and implementing effective Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) programs. In line with the Solemn Declaration on a Common African Defense and Security Policy of 2004, the AU-Regions Standing Committee on Small arms and Light Weapons, at its third ordinary meeting held on 21 April 2022, among others, requested the Commission to support AU Member States to develop an African common position to inform their participation at the fourth Review Conference on the implementation of the UN Programme of Action (UNPoA) to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in SALW in 2024. It was also proposed that a Continental legal instrument on the fight against illicit SALW is elaborated since four out of five regions already have legal instruments. To this end, the Commission will convene a meeting of Member States experts to produce a draft common position that will serve as a reference during the fourth review conference of the UNPoA and submit to the AU Policy Organs for consideration.
• At national level, the Commission is supporting Ghana, upon request, to undertake a comprehensive review of its institutional and policy frameworks for firearms regulation. This has culminated in a Draft Bill, which was presented to a High- Level meeting in December 2022 for preliminary consideration. The meeting brought together senior government officials from Ministries of Defence, Internal Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Office of the Attorney General, Parliamentary Committee on Defense and Security, as well as Civil Society Organizations. The updated draft Bill will be presented to Parliament for consideration. In addition, following the signing of the Permanent Cessation of Hostilities Agreement between the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) on 2 November 2022, the Commission supported the Federal Police of Ethiopia to hold a High-level National Policy Dialogue on Arms Control. The meeting was an opportunity to enable discussion on strategies to develop a national action plan to fight illicit firearms in the country. The Commission will continue to support individual initiatives of Member States in the fight against illicit firearms.

2022

Mine Action (done)

• Mine Action is yet another thematic area that the Commission is providing support for those Member States that are contaminated. Even after wars stop and guns fall silent, landmines remain in the ground, affecting millions of lives and rendering vast areas unusable. Landmines, other unexploded ordinances, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) continue to be a major concern for the African Union from both state security and human security perspectives. According to the 2022 Report of the Land Mine Monitor; 5,544 causalties of mines or Explosive Remnants of War (ERW) were recorded in 2021. Out of this, 2,182 people were killed; 3,355 people were injured; while the survival status was unknown for seven casualties. Children accounted for 1,696 casualties, which is half of all civilian casualties where the age was known.
• Whereas the Member States affected by landmines continue to deploy efforts in mine clearance, the high cost is one of the reasons why some countries have remained contaminated in spite of the efforts they continue to deploy demining. The Commission continues to reach out to partners to support the efforts. Such efforts have contributed to attracting partners to some of the Member States.
• The growing threat of IEDs in the Continent, especially in the countries affected by terrorism, also calls for concerted and coordinated efforts to provide technical support to Member States.
• The Commission also plans to update its Mine Action and Explosive Remnants of War Strategic Framework to the AU Mine Action and Explosive Remnants of War Strategy and intends to convene a meeting of Member States experts in 2023 to develop the draft. Similarly, the Commission will support Member States to produce an AU Counter-IED Strategy. It is hoped that these instruments will enable a cohesive approach to the landmines and IED threats that the Continent is facing.

2022

Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament (done)

• AU Member States remain committed to nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament, within the framework of responding to common external threats to Africa's Continental security, in the context of the Solemn Declaration on a Common African Defense and Security Policy of 2004. The African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE), established in 2009 as the Secretariat of the African Nuclear Weapon Free Zone Treaty (The Treaty of Pelindaba), works closely with the PAPS Department in the area of nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament.
• As part of the support to Member States to address threats posed by Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs), the AU Commission, in partnership with the International Campaign to Abolish nuclear weapons (ICAN), held a meeting of Member States Experts on the Treaty on the Prohibition of nuclear weapons (TPNW), on 10 March 2022. The meeting provided a forum to promote the African nuclear weapons Free Zone Treaty (Treaty of Pelindaba) as the Continent's key instrument on nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation, and to promote the peaceful application of nuclear science and technology for health, agriculture, industrialization, education and other peaceful uses.
• AFCONE specifically assist Member States in support of nuclear Non-Proliferation and disarmament through establishing partnerships with organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO); as well as through the developing verification of nuclear material accountancy reports. AFCONE also reviews IAEA reports on the application of international safeguards to peaceful nuclear activities, as well as data from CTBTO data centers in Africa. http://www.the-monitor.org/en-gb/reports/2022/landmine-monitor-2022/major-findings.aspx
• Furthermore, AFCONE strives to build capacity in African countries on meeting Non-Proliferation obligations undertaken in the Treaty of Pelindaba, as well as in the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), Treaty on Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) plus in safeguards agreements with the IAEA. In this regard, in September 2022, AFCONE signed a cooperation programme with the European Commission/ Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority of Finland (STUK) to provide training on safeguards to AU Member States.
• AFCONE is currently drafting the conceptual framework for a forum on the peaceful applications of nuclear energy for development in the Continent. The objectives of the forum include, inter alia, the development of African common positions and the definition of regional priorities that will serve as the basis for the contribution of African States Parties to the NPT Review Conferences and related preparatory meetings on the peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
• AFCONE provides regular briefings to the AU PSC in the areas of non- proliferation and disarmament, and in the peaceful application of nuclear science and technology. AFCONE will develop joint action plans with Member States and partners as part of the technical support programme. In order to achieve the goal of nuclear weapon free Africa, it is imperative that AFCONE is able to fully carry out its mandate. It is therefore essential that all State Parties to the Pelindaba Treaty fulfil their commitments to the Treaty by ensuring that their assessed contributions to the Treaty are made in full.

2022

Nuclear Safety and Security (done)

• The main nuclear security issues in Africa include the handling of radioactive sources, and the threat of illicit trafficking of radioactive and nuclear materials. This is particularly important given the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism in the Continent. AFCONE assures adherence to nuclear security mainly through the verification of reports submitted by State Parties to the Pelindaba Treaty on their nuclear activities. Under Article 10 of the Treaty of Pelindaba, each Party undertakes to apply measures of physical protection equivalent to those provided for in the Convention on Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (CPPNM). It is noted that there are currently 25 AU Member States that are either not yet party to the CPPNM or have not ratified its amendment, the CPPNM/A.
• In the same vein, AFCONE is working closely with PAPS Department in supporting Member States in the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1540 (2004) in which all States commit to refrain from providing any form of support to non-State actors that attempt to develop, acquire, manufacture, possess, transport, transfer or use nuclear, chemical or biological weapons and their means of delivery, in particular for terrorist purposes.
• With regard to the illicit trafficking of radioactive and nuclear materials, AFCONE is addressing that through cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency, within the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the AFCONE and the IAEA. The IAEA shares with AFCONE, information from its Incident and Reporting Database, which is a repository of all information on the trafficking, theft, loss and discovery of radioactive and nuclear materials reported by IAEA member States.

2022

Nuclear Power and the Security of Fuel Supply (done)

• Among the many applications of nuclear energy, the production of electrical power is seen as particularly urgent for African countries. Due to concerns about climate change, global trends and focus regarding energy production on renewable and low carbon energy sources, including nuclear energy.
• Some AU Member States have already indicated interest in adopting nuclear power for electricity, these include Algeria, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Niger, Nigeria, South Africa, Tunisia, Uganda, and Zambia. Egypt started construction of a new nuclear power plant in August 2022. This anticipated development of nuclear power in Africa comes with concerns about the security of fuel supply. 20% of the world's uranium production is from Africa, but none of the further processing of uranium ore concentrate takes place in Africa.
• AFCONE is currently working to boost production and profits of Africa's uranium producers mainly Namibia and Niger, and, importantly, to consider the further processing and stockpiling of uranium in Africa. These efforts are being undertaken, considering the fact that nuclear fuel supply security cannot be 100% guaranteed under the current geopolitical tensions. The war in Ukraine for example could hamper nuclear fuel supply from the International Nuclear Fuel Bank in Kazakhstan in the medium to long term. Leveraging African uranium resources as described would not only provide fuel security guarantees for African countries, but potentially for the rest of the world.

2023

Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) 2023

• The Commission provides support in DDR to Member States on demand across the entire peace continuum within and outside the framework of comprehensive peace agreements. In this regard, the Commission is guided by the Revised Integrated Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration Standards (IDDRS) as developed by the United Nations and in which the Commission participated. The support included training and capacity building for national DDR practitioners using the IDDRS and AU-OGNs. The Commission organized a webinar series as well as face-to-face workshops for eleven (11) Member States, including Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, South Sudan, and Somalia. These enabled enhanced information and peer-to-peer exchange on implementing DDR activities, promoting good practices and exploring appropriate responses to common challenges among them.
• As part of the implementation of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement between the Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Tigray Peoples' Liberation Front (TPLF) , the Commission is collaborating with the National Rehabilitation Commission (NRC) to raise the necessary financial and technical resources to support Ethiopia in its ongoing national DDR efforts.
  The Commission also supported Somalia and Mali in sensitizing national security and rule of law enforcement institutions on effective weapons and ammunition management. This was aimed at minimizing leakage and loss of state-owned weapons into unauthorized possession.
• As a strategy for enhanced support to Member States, the Commission, in partnership with the United Nations and World Bank, launched a Joint Collaborative Framework on DDR for 2023-2025. The framework will be implemented through broad interventions covering research, analysis, operation, knowledge management, monitoring and evaluation, and capacity building.

Security Sector Reforms (SSR) 2023

• The Commission continues to support Member States in implementing Security Sector Reform (SSR) upon request, guided by the AU SSR Policy Framework. In 2023, SSR interventions focused on supporting National SSR efforts in Member States in political transitions and post-conflict reconstruction and development contexts. In this regard, the Commission supported The Gambia in developing a fundraising strategy to guide the efforts to raise funds to finance its SSR program. This is because of the limited national resources to finance the planned activities.
• The Malian transitional authorities have included in Chapter II Article 2 of the Charter of Transition of 1 October 2020 the implementation of the Peace and Reconciliation Agreement (PRA) resulting from the Algiers process, which promotes security sector governance as a key pillar for sustainable peace. In this context, Mali revised its National SSR Strategy 2022-2024 to adapt it to the present security needs.
• The Commission supported the sensitization of state and non-state security actors on ownership of the new National SSR strategy. The National SSR is in two regions - Bamako and Kati. Participants included the National SSR Commission, other Government officials, local authorities, and Civil Society Organizations -- including women and youth associations. During the discussions, one of the topics addressed was the process of integrating ex-combatants into the national forces or reintegrating them into civilian life. This valuable experience can be shared with other Member States to strengthen their ownership of national SSR.

Fight against Illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons - 2023 done

• Within the frameworks of the African Union's initiative on 'Silencing the guns' and the United Nations new ''Vision for Disarmament'', a key pillar of the "New Agenda for Peace", the Commission, through the Political Affairs, Peace and Security Department, and the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), has developed a "Joint Cooperation Framework for Enhanced Partnership on Peace and Security" covering a range of issues on control of conventional arms, and disarmament and nonproliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction. The two organizations are now moving to develop a fundraising strategy that will guide the mobilization of funds to support the implementation of identified activities. The programme is expected to be rolled out from 2024.
• The Commission continued supporting Member States in the fight against proliferation of illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) and their ammunition because they remain significant conflict enablers and threaten Africa's peace, security, stability, and social and economic development. The availability of illicit SALW exacerbates the plight of civilians, especially in countries in conflict, and therefore, helping countries to strengthen arms control frameworks is essential including ensuring proper management of stockpiles. The effective management of SALW is critical to achieving the goal of Silencing the guns by 2030.
• The Commission is supporting Member States towards strong participation during the Fourth Review Conference of the United Nations "Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects" scheduled for June 2024 through elaborating a Common Position that would guide them in the review process. The Member States experts' meeting held in November 2023 identified areas of concern for the continent that would be highlighted during the conference.
• The Standing Committee on Small Arms and Light Weapons, Demobilization, Disarmament and Reintegration (DDR) of the AU, gathering the eight (8) RECs/RMs recognized by the African Union, held an extraordinary meeting on 20 and 21 September 2023, in Casablanca, Kingdom of Morocco. The meeting focused on the preparation of the African Common Position on the 4th Review Conference of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects.
• The Commission also mobilized the African Group in New York towards strong participation during the Fourth and final Substantive Session of the UN Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) on Conventional Ammunition, established by the UN to elaborate a set of political commitments as a new global framework that will address existing gaps through-live ammunition management. This enabled Member States to rally around Continental concerns for enhanced global controls on conventional ammunition. The final report of the OEWG was adopted without a vote.

Mine Action - 2023

• The Commission is providing assistance to Member States that are still affected by landmines, which remain a significant danger impacting the lives of millions, in order to eliminate them.
• The Commission conducted technical assessments of Zimbabwe and Guinea Bissau to evaluate the current status of demining efforts and assistance provided to landmine victims.
• The Government of Algeria also organized the African Regional Seminar on Mine Action in Algiers, Algeria from 30 to 31 May 2023 which called for enhancement of south-south cooperation in support of African countries that are still affected by mine situation. The Commission remains committed to collaborating with partners in order to secure the necessary technical and financial assistance for these Countries to meet their clearance deadlines, in accordance with the Mine Ban Convention.
• The Commission remains committed to collaborating with partners in order to secure the necessary technical and financial assistance for these Countries to meet their clearance deadlines, in accordance with the Mine Ban Convention.

Weapons of Mass destruction 2023 (done)

• AU Member States are party to multilateral instruments against the proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction, including nuclear, chemical and biological. In this regard, the Commission partnered with the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI) and conducted a capacity-building workshop on mitigating risk related to CBRN materials held from 12 -- 13 December 2023 at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa. The workshop was conducted within the framework of the European Union (EU) Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Risk Mitigation Centres of Excellence (CoE) initiative, which presently supports 28 AU Member States.
• The workshop contributed to strengthening Member States to meet their obligations under the various multilateral instruments on WMDs, including within the framework of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1540, which obliges all countries to develop and enforce appropriate legal and regulatory measures against the proliferation of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear weapons and their means of delivery.
• Other than ensuring adherence to the prohibitions under the various multilateral instruments, the Commission, including through the African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE), continues to work with technical partners like the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to promote the application of nuclear science and technology for peaceful uses in the areas of health, education, agriculture, mining, industrialization and other developmental areas. In the same context, the Commission is strengthening its partnership with the Technical Secretariat of the Organization to support Member States adhering to prohibitions under the Chemical Weapons Convention, which ensures strict controls, security and safety of scheduled chemicals imported for legitimate use for manufacturing, extraction industry and other developmental purposes.

Security Sector Reform

• 269. In the Gambia and Lesotho, the AUC, jointly with the Geneva Centre for Security Governance (DCAF), and in close collaboration with the respective AU Member States, provided training and research support to strengthen national SSR competences during the period under review. The main objective of this project is to support AU Member States in identifying their needs for strategic SSR capacities and to increase AU Member States’ national ownership of SSR processes. The AU Member States are supported to undertake self-assessments to identify their strategic needs in developing national SSR process capacity and competence, as well as to look at past experiences of expert support. This will result in action plans to help Member States to develop the needed capacities and competences. The action plans will be used for strategic prioritization as well as resource mobilization.
• 270. Furthermore, the AUC, jointly with African Policing Civilian Oversight Forum (APCOF) and UNOAU provided support in the area of developing AU SSR Operational Guidance Notes (OGNs) related to oversight & accountability and mediation to support AU Member States in enhancing the implementation of national SSR processes. The Commission organized a Member States Meeting to discuss and validate the OGNs, which was attended by representatives from CAR, DRC, Ethiopia, Gambia, Lesotho, Madagascar, Mali, and South Sudan; and ECOWAS. These OGNs will contribute to guide the establishment of oversight mechanisms to enhance democratic control and oversight in the security sector. In addition, they provide insights related to challenges in the deficit of appropriate political foundations to negotiate and implement peace agreements, due to unresolved security-relate disputes. These tools are essential for conflict prevention and promoting sustainable peace and security.
• 271. In Mali the AUC, through MISAHEL, provided technical and institutional support in the area of SSR and Monitoring & Evaluation to build national capacity, in line with AU Guidelines on SSR and M&E. In partnership with the UN office to the African Union and Africa Security Sector Network (ASSN), deployed technical experts to collaborate with national experts, in organizing a workshop to build the capacity of Mali national officials in Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) of SSR processes. The main objective of the workshop was to train appointed national SSR team members to help build national expertise required to conceptualize, institutionalize, and implement the M&E of SSR processes, within the framework of the implementation of the Mali National SSR strategy 2022-2024 adopted by the transitional Government.
• 272. In the Gambia, the AUC, in close collaboration with the Gambia Office of National Security (ONS), provided technical and institutional support for an SSR review and an establishment of a Monitoring and Evaluation Framework as part of the ongoing SSR national process (Nov 2024), and in line with AU Operational Guidance note on M&E. The AUC is supporting in a comprehensive assessment of the Gambia’s SSR Strategy implementation process to evaluate the progress made and to assess how it aligns with the Gambia’s national security priorities and democratic principles. This review will provide a crucial opportunity to assess The Gambia's progress in implementing SSR and identify areas for further improvement.

Disarmament Demobilisation and Reintegration

• 273. Effective DDR is a crucial element of stabilization and recovery interventions, and DDR processes are often amongst the fundamental preconditions for stability. However, inadequately conceptualized and delivered DDR programmes may undermine stabilization efforts and even in some instances be a cause of further conflict and insecurity. Member States undergoing DDR processes across the continent are facing various challenges, including very difficult political and security contexts where there has not been a definitive end to conflict; complex cross-border dynamics associated with transnational crime; weapons movements and people trafficking; proliferation of non-state armed and terrorist groups, and violent extremism conducive to terrorism. Therefore, to understand the approach to the dynamics of armed and terrorist groups in the Sahel, the AU Commission and the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), jointly with partners such as the United Nations Department of Peace Operations (UNDPO) and the Bonn International Center for Conflict Studies (BICC), and with funding from the German Federal Foreign Office, launched a research initiative on “Approaches to Dealing with Armed Groups in the Sahel” (2023- 2024). In this regard, it should also be noted that, since 2023, the MONUSCO support programme and IOM, UNDP, UN Habitat, FAO, UNESCO, and other partners provided technical and financial support to the DDR and community recovery programmes in the DRC. Through socio-economic reintegration of ex-combatants in Ituri, Beni, Tanganyika, Walungu, Uvira and Fizi.
• 274. The Commission’s support to Ethiopia’s DDR process has been implemented within the framework of the Lasting Peace through a Permanent Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (COHA). This series of support included but not limited to, convening of high-level and technical consultations, deployment of technical experts and site visit support required to launch a comprehensive DDR process. This set of interventions contributes to the implementation of the COHA and DDR. Supporting the implementation of the COHA in Ethiopia holds the potential to significantly contribute to lasting peace, political stability, and socio-economic development in the conflict-affected regions. This stability can foster greater confidence among communities, encourage the return of displaced populations and facilitate development projects.
• 275. Within the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), the AU Commission deployed an Expert to South Sudan, to provide technical and institutional support in the area of Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) and Security Sector Transformation. The technical assistance provided included, developing SSR Coordination Framework and relevant Security Sector Transformation (SST)/DDR guidelines in close coordination with Strategic Defence and Security Review Board (SDSRB). Furthermore, through the capacity-building support provided by the AU SSR/DDR consultant, the national SDSRB has now clarity in conceptualizing required documents within the implementation of the peace agreement. The SDSRB intends to develop required SST frameworks based on a holistic approach and submit them for approval by the Council of Ministers and the Transitional National Legislative Assembly

Mine Action

• 277. Concerning mine action, the Commission organized a joint AU-ICRC Roundtable on Mine Action in Africa for contaminated AU Member States that are parties to the Mine Ban Convention. The roundtable enabled State parties to share their experiences, challenges, and priorities. Partners, including the ICRC Japan Delegation, presented the innovative drone-based technology developed through collaboration with Waseda University (Japan), which is intended to improve landmine and Explosive Remnants of War (ERW) detection through remote sensing system integrated with a thermal sensing camera and using Artificial Intelligence (AI). South- South cooperation was stressed, and Algeria reiterated its offer to provide support to AU member states in their mine action programmes. Moving forward, three State parties — Eritrea, Nigeria, and Senegal — expressed interest in the ICRC's innovative drone-based technology for detecting landmines. The AUC and ICRC agreed to follow up on this interest and assist the said State parties in testing the new technology.
• 278. The AU Commission undertook missions to Guinea Bissau and Zimbabwe in November 2024 to assess the current demining efforts in the two Member States. It is noted that the Member States signalled their commitment to meeting their mine clearance obligations and have put in place institutional frameworks to coordinate national mine action efforts. However, the main challenge remains inadequate resources to procure demining equipment.

Small Arms and Lights Weapons

• 280. The AUC participated in the Fourth Review Conference (RevCon4) of the UN Programme of Action (PoA) on Small Arms and Light Weapons and the International Tracing Instrument (ITI). During the meeting, AU Member States were mobilized to refer to the CAP during RevCon4. The outcome document of RevCon4 was adopted by consensus. However, Member States need support in areas like reporting and resource mobilization, among others. The outcome document of RevCon4 was adopted by consensus and in addition to the General Declaration, it covered:
  • Action-oriented measures for effective implementation of the UNPoA for the period 2024–2030;
  • Action-oriented measures for effective implementation of the International Instrument to Enable States to Identify and Trace illicit SALW in a Timely and Reliable Manner;
• 281. The Regional conference on landmines, on improvised anti-personnel mines in West Africa and the Sahel region, held in Accra, sought to address the humanitarian impact of improvised anti-personnel mines in west Africa and the Sahel regions. Key outcomes from the discussions included: prioritizing increased resource mobilization and partnerships to effectively implement the Mine Ban Convention and counter Improvised Explosive Devices (C-IEDs) strategies; urging the African Union to actively engage in resource mobilization to provide humanitarian aid for victims of Improvised Anti-Personnel Mines and tackling the growing issue of IED contamination; calling upon States parties to raise pertinent issues for debate at the upcoming Fifth Review Conference of the Mine Ban Convention in Siem Reap, Cambodia, and considering revisions to the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons to better address current threats, including IEDs, among other challenges.
• 282. The Commission concluded the study “Nexus Between Illicit Proliferation and Circulation of Small Arms and Light Weapons and Terrorism in Africa” as requested by the Specialised Technical Committee on Defence, Safety and Security (STCDSS) at its at its 12th meeting, held in Cairo, Egypt, on 19 December 2019. The study report concludes that there is a strong link between illicit arms flows and terrorism by showing direct correlation between regions with high illicit arms flows and regions hard hit by terrorism and violent extremism conducive to terrorism.

Cyber Security and Diplomacy

• 284. A Workshop on Cyber Diplomacy was organized in Addis Ababa to raise awareness of existing cyber threats and adopting key priorities for cyber security with a focus on cyber diplomacy within the diplomatic community in Addis Ababa. This included discussions on the nature and extent of the cyber threats and underscored the need for an African Framework for Peace & Security in Cyberspace to guide Member States in developing and enhancing their cyber resilience. As outcomes, a blueprint of key areas for Cyber Diplomacy in Africa were adopted, including: the development of the continent’s digital capacity in line with the AU’s Digital Transformation Strategy; and agreement to articulate common positions on critical issues like cybersecurity, data privacy, and the governance of emerging technologies

Maritime Security

• 285. Security in the maritime domain continues to be of concern to the continent, facilitating the trafficking of drugs and arms and negatively impacting international trade. To help reverse this trend, the Commission has developed a joint strategy and an action plan in partnership with the Gulf of Guinea Commission and the Indian Ocean Commission. The action plan seeks to strengthen cooperation among Member States in enhancing maritime security through building the capacities of the relevant national agencies.

(g) Defence and Security Governance

• 175. The Defence and Security governance encompasses the structures, processes, and mechanisms through which states manage and oversee their security institutions, including the military, police, intelligence agencies, and other relevant bodies. It is a critical component of overall governance, as the security sector plays a fundamental role in ensuring the safety, stability, and well-being of societies. Effective security sector governance is essential for upholding the rule of law, protecting human rights, and promoting peace and security within and across borders.

i. Security Sector Reform (SSR)

• 176. The AU Policy Framework on SSR guides the implementation of SSR across all phases of conflict cycle. It is intended to support the efforts of Member States, RECs/RMs and partners. It is worth recalling that the AU Master Roadmap of Practical Steps to Silence the Guns emphasizes the need to transform security forces into professional institutions under civilian oversight. Without such reform, countries risk recurring conflict and instability. A comprehensive approach to SSR is therefore essential for achieving lasting peace and stability. Guided by this overarching framework, as well as the PSC decisions and Member States’ requests, the AU Commission, in coordination with RECs and international partners, has supported nationally led SSR processes in six Member States.
• 177. In its 1278th Communiqué adopted on 7 May 2025 on the theme “Briefing on the AU Support to Member States (The Gambia, Lesotho, Madagascar, Mali, and South Sudan) on SSR, the PSC provided strategic guidance emphasizing the need to strengthen national political will for more effective security governance. It underscored the importance of integrating SSR principles into constitutional reforms, including with the support of the AU Panel of the Wise. The PSC further highlighted the promotion of SSR as a key conflict prevention tool through the alignment of efforts across all APSA pillars and the establishment of SSR champions to facilitate the sharing of experiences and best practices.
• 178. Technical support was further provided to the Democratic Republic of Congo, through the AU Liaison office, by deploying a consultant to assess the needs in the areas of SSR and Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR). The findings will map areas that require AU’s support, and a roadmap will be developed to reinforce national ownership and coordination.
• 179. In response to a request for support from the Republic of South Sudan, the AU Commission has provided support to organize a series of activities aimed at sensitizing key stakeholders in supporting the implementation of DDR and SSR Programmes. The support included: i) High-Level Sensitization Workshop for the Standing Committee, the Members of the Legislative Assembly, and the Members of the Council of State. These efforts align with the security arrangements outlined in the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), which constitute a key pillar for the political and security stability of the country.

ii. Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR)

• 182. DDR programmes are designed to support the processes through which former combatants are supported to move from being active participants in armed conflict to civilian life, including supporting the communities to which these individuals return. These programmes contribute to building long-term peace, security, and sustainable development. Effective DDR is a fundamental precondition for fostering peace and stability in post-conflict societies. However, poorly implemented DDR programmes may undermine stabilisation efforts and, in some instances, contribute to further conflict and insecurity. In its engagements with Member States, Peace Support Operations, and other stakeholders and partners, the Commission continues to emphasize the importance of a strong political commitment in implementing DDR.
• 183. In November 2025, the Commission provided targeted support to countries undergoing political transition in the Sahel and West Africa, including Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Guinea. These engagements underscored the urgent need to accompany transition processes with substantial support in security sector transformation, disarmament, and countering terrorism and violent extremism.
• 184. The Commission also provided information technology equipment to the National Rehabilitation Commission of Ethiopia in support of its data management programme within the framework of the national DDR process.
• 185. In response to a request from the Republic of Cameroon, the Commission provided technical support to the National Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration Committee (NDDRC) in developing its national DDR strategy in November 2025. The plan outlines the Government’s vision and priorities for DDR within Cameroon’s complex dual-crisis context, providing a coherent and inclusive framework to guide current and future efforts.
• 186. The Government of the Republic of Burundi requested the support of the African Union Commission for the rehabilitation and construction of essential facilities at a transit site (Songore site) to facilitate the repatriation of disengaged combatants from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). In response, the Commission organized a technical assessment mission in November 2025 to evaluate the needs associated with the request. The findings of the assessment informed subsequent actions, including the mobilization of resources to support the rehabilitation and reintegration process. This initiative is expected to serve as a positive example, encouraging other ex-combatants to disengage, disarm, and reintegrate.
• 187. The lessons learned thus far underscore the need for DDR to be politically integrated into the broader peace processes and linked to long-term recovery and development efforts. Isolated or purely technical approaches are unlikely to yield sustainable results. Lasting peace requires addressing underlying political grievances, including issues of power-sharing, legitimacy, and inclusive governance all of which contribute to fuelling conflict.

iii. Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW)

• 189. The Commission continues to support Member States in the fight against illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW), in line with the “Common African Position on the Fourth United Nations Conference to Review the Progress Made in the Implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in SALW in All Its Aspects” of 2024, and the outcome document of the Review Conference.
• 190. The Commission organized a strategic meeting on gender perspective mainstreaming in small arms control, to raise awareness and strengthen Member States’ capacity to address gender-specific issues in SALW control, while also promoting youth participation. The meeting called for the development of an AU Guidance Note on SALW and Gender.
• 191. The Commission, in collaboration with the RECs, also conducted the study “Synergies between African Regional Arms and Ammunition Control Instruments and the Global Framework for Through-life Conventional Ammunition (GFA) Management”. The study highlights the synergies between the four existing African regional arms and ammunition control instruments and the Global Framework for Through-life Conventional Ammunition Management (GFA).
• 192. The Commission, in partnership with the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), supported Mali and Uganda to commemorate the Africa Amnesty Month, which promotes the voluntary surrender of illicit weapons.
• 193. The Commission also assisted SADC in developing its regional chapter of the Silencing the Guns Plan of Action, which its Policy Organs endorsed in July 2025. Additionally, the 16 SADC Member States benefited from training to strengthen capacity in arms control, in line with the new SADC Chapter, provided by the Commission in partnership with the SADC Secretariat and other international partners.
• 194. Furthermore, the Commission conducted a study on the Nexus Between the Illicit Proliferation and Circulation of Small Arms and Light Weapons and Terrorism in Africa in close collaboration with the AU Counter-Terrorism Centre (AUCTC). The draft report was presented to RECs experts for review in August 2025. The draft will be presented to the experts of Member States for consideration.
• 195. The Commission recognized that the Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems represent a multidimensional threat to Africa, affecting civilian protection, role of the State, regional stability, and technological governance. The African Union emphasizes the importance of stringent regulation, grounded in effective human control and complete adherence to International Humanitarian Law (IHL), to ensure that technological advancements promote security and peace, rather than escalating risks to African populations and States.

(g) Defence and Security Governance continued

iv. African Union Fellowship Programme on Disarmament and Non-Proliferation

• 197. The AU Commission launched the African Union Fellowship Programme on Disarmament and Non-Proliferation in July 2025, with the first cohort comprising participants from 15 PSC Member States and diplomats from Embassies based in Addis Ababa. The Fellowship was officially inaugurated by H.E. Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security of the African Union, in collaboration with H.E. Ambassador Rebecca Amuge Otengo, Chairperson of the Peace and Security Council (PSC) for July 2025. The program is designed to impart knowledge and skills to diplomats and experts from AU Member States, sharpening their diplomatic skills in negotiating and promoting Africa’s interests on disarmament, arms control, and non-proliferation in international fora. The Commission is currently reviewing the curriculum and will continue to deliver the Fellowship Program for 2026 and subsequent years.

v. Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

• 199. The African Union Commission has been actively engaged in efforts related to Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) disarmament and Non-Proliferation instruments. In July 2025, the Commission, in close collaboration with the African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE), organized an Awareness-Raising Meeting on Continental and global instruments for nuclear, Chemical, and Biological Weapons Disarmament and Non-Proliferation. It was observed that Member States are making significant contributions to multiple global instruments. This is achieved through hosting monitoring stations, centres of excellence, nominating expertise to various mechanisms, and chairing multilateral forums. Member States are encouraged to sustain and expand their contributions to global and continental instruments, frameworks, and processes to advance shared security objectives and harness the peaceful use of Nuclear, Chemical, Biological (NCB) science and technology.

vi. Mine Action

• 200. Landmine clearance is a critical enabler for the implementation of the African Union’s flagship initiative, Silencing the Guns in Africa by 2030, and directly contributes to Aspiration 4 of the AU Agenda 2063: A Peaceful and Secure Africa. At its 1271st meeting held in April 2025; the PSC reaffirmed its commitment to achieving a Mine-Free Africa. The Council encouraged the AU Commission to support Member States in strengthening national ownership, developing comprehensive strategies to address the challenges posed by landmines and the growing threat of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), and establishing a continental coordination mechanism to address these threats effectively.
• 201. In November 2024, the AU Commission undertook missions to Guinea-Bissau and Zimbabwe to assess the current demining efforts in the two Member States. It is noted that the Member States signalled their commitment to meeting their mine clearance obligations and have put in place institutional frameworks to coordinate national mine action efforts. As a follow-up, in September 2025, the AU Commission facilitated the sharing of experiences and knowledge between Guinea-Bissau and Zimbabwe, in order to promote South-South cooperation in Mine Action. The activity enabled the Guinea-Bissau Mine Action Authority to learn about the progress made by Zimbabwe in its mine action programmes.
• 202. Following the PSC decision, an Expert Meeting was organized in November 2025 (venue) to review and finalize the draft strategies on Mine Action and IEDs, and to establish a Mine Action Steering Committee to ensure effective continental coordination of Mine Action.
• 203. On the other hand, as part of the support to Member States to address the threat of the use of Explosive Weapons in Populated Areas (EWIPA), the AU Commission, through its Peace and Security Council, has reaffirmed its commitment to the Political Declaration on EWIPA and continues to encourage more Member States to endorse and implement it to enhance civilian protection. In addition, the Commission participated in various regional round table meetings and capacity-building workshops on the universalization of the EWIPA Declaration, including those held in South Africa for the Southern Region and in Rabat, Morocco, for North Africa and the Middle East. These meetings agreed on the need to raise awareness and advocate for the endorsement and implementation of the EWIPA Political Declaration among States.

vii. Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence

• 204. While digital transformation presents significant opportunities for Africa, it also introduces complex security risks. Emerging technologies, especially cyber tools and Artificial Intelligence (AI), pose growing threats, including cyberattacks, misinformation, and the potential misuse of autonomous weapons systems. These developments underscore the urgent need for robust governance, regional cooperation, and proactive measures by Member States to mitigate their impact on peace and stability.
• 205. The AU Commission, in line with the AU Digital Transformation Strategy, has developed a draft Framework on Peace and Security in Cyberspace. Developed through broad consultations with Member States, RECs/RMs which have a governance, peace and security mandate, civil society, the private sector, and international partners, the draft Framework aims to address digital threats impacting stability at all levels.
• 206. Following the establishment of the Advisory Group on Artificial Intelligence, Impact on Peace, Security and Governance in Africa (AU Advisory Group on AI-PSG) by the PSC at its 1214th meeting held on 13 June 2024, Members of the AI-PSG convened two meetings to implement the PSC decisions, namely:
  • i. PSC Communique (PSC/PR/COMM.1214 (2024) of June 2024 which called for a comprehensive study on the impact and implications of Artificial Intelligence on peace, security, stability, democracy and development in Africa and submit the Report to the PSC as soon as possible; and mainstream Artificial Intelligence in all peace processes, including facilitating its integration in peace building initiatives, leveraging Artificial Intelligence for mediation, reconciliation, and post-conflict reconstruction; and
  • ii. PSC communique [PSC/MIN/COMM.1267 (2025)] which requested the AU Commission to develop an integrated AI-based early warning systems to support the decision-making and efforts of the AU Member States, AU and RECs/RMs which have a governance, peace and security mandate in detecting signals of radicalization, community violence and emerging conflicts; and to develop a Common African Position on Artificial Intelligence and its impact on peace, security, democracy and development in Africa.

vii. Maritime Security Governance

• 208. Whereas AU Member States seek to benefit from the oceans and seas by developing policy frameworks and strategies, criminals also use the maritime domain to carry out criminal activities such as piracy, illicit trafficking of drugs and other substances, human trafficking in particular migrants, among others. The 2016 African Charter on Maritime Security, Safety and Development, was Africa’s first legally binding framework on maritime security, addresses piracy, trafficking, and resource exploitation. However, limited ratifications, capacity gaps, and resource shortages have hindered its progress.
• 209. In December 2025, the AU Commission held a Consultative Meeting on Joint Strategy for Maritime Security Governance and Coordination Mechanism for the affected coastal Member States, with the Indian Ocean Commission and the Gulf of Guinea Commission. The workshop clarified roles, coordination mechanisms, joint programmes, and funding strategies to strengthen continental and subregional cooperation and ensure the sustainable implementation of these initiatives. The workshop was also convened to establish the African Coastguard Forum, which would facilitate the coordination of maritime domain patrols.