KAMPALA –In a display of solidarity and commitment to global peace, African leaders have pledged their support and contribution to finding a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis between Russia and Ukraine. The announcement came during a virtual meeting hosted by President Cyril Ramaphosa of the Republic of South Africa.
Speaking from State House Nakasero, President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda emphasized the importance of the African perspective on peace in resolving the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. President Museveni highlighted that the war not only affects the two countries directly involved but also poses a threat to world peace.
“This war affects all of us and it can get worse than it is now. It is threatening world peace. Since we have our own perspective, we can share with them how we have solved our own problems here,” President Museveni stated. He further noted that Africa has a track record of successfully resolving conflicts, citing examples such as the end of apartheid in South Africa and the efforts made in Congo and Somalia.
President Museveni also drew attention to the impact of the conflict on Africa, particularly the sanctions that have adversely affected banking and marine transport. He expressed gratitude to President Ramaphosa and the organizers of the meeting for providing a platform to discuss Africa’s voice in contributing to resolving the Russia-Ukraine crisis.
President Ramaphosa, as the host of the virtual meeting, commended African presidents for their participation and dedication to discussing Africa’s role in bringing about a peaceful resolution. He emphasized the objective of African heads of state to facilitate meaningful negotiations between Russia and Ukraine that would ultimately lead to the end of the conflict.
“We need to confirm that we are embarking on this mission as Pan-African leaders, and we desire peace,” President Ramaphosa stated.
The virtual meeting was attended by other African leaders, including President Azali Assoumani of the Union of Comoros and Chairperson of the African Union (AU), President Macky Sall of Senegal, President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt, President Denis Sassou Nguesso of Congo Brazzaville, and President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia.
As a demonstration of their commitment, a delegation of African heads of state is expected to travel to Russia and Ukraine to engage in discussions and propose potential peace plans to resolve the crisis.
The African leaders’ pledge of support adds to the global efforts aimed at bringing an end to the Russia-Ukraine crisis and underscores Africa’s commitment to peace and stability on the international stage.