AU ECHO 2020

Abstract

The year 2020 is one where we as Africans will be called upon in all walks of life to band together to widen our vision and to see the full spectrum of what is possible economically, socially and politically if we create the environment for peace to endure. Our theme for 2020 of Silencing The Guns: Creating Conducive Conditions for Africa’s Development is in keeping with Africa’s Agenda 2063 and our Aspiration for a Peaceful and Secure Africa. Anchored on the African Union’s African Peace and Security Architecture, 2020 will be the year where all tools to promote peace will be pulled out of the box; from preventive diplomacy and dialoguecentred approaches to conflict prevention and resolution, as well as support to member states and citizens through the work of the various AU peacekeeping forces to manage crises and work towards reconstruction of societies so as to create the firm foundation for enduring economic growth and development. In our efforts to promote peace and stability in line with the theme of the year, the role of women must not be negated, but in fact a more inclusive approach to peace keeping must be embraced. In this edition we highlight the need to close the gender gap in matters of peace and security and profile the role of women in the peace keeping efforts of the African Union and celebrate their achievements. Finally, peace and stability are necessary for achieving the desired objectives of one of Africa’s most ambitious economic integration initiatives, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The AfCFTA entered into force in May 2019 and in July 2019 the Operational Instruments were launched. Africa is all set to transform the landscape when trading under the AfCFTA commences in July 2020. In this edition of the AU Echo we cover the operational instruments as well as the requirements and expectations for the start of trading. To achieve our ambitions for sustainable growth and development let us make 2020 the year when we lay the strong foundations for lasting peace....