On June 21, 2024, Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone, delivered a closing statement at the virtual meeting of the African Union Peace and Security Council (Heads of State and Government level), addressing the escalating conflict in the Republic of Sudan.

The meeting brought together African leaders to discuss urgent measures needed to resolve the ongoing crisis.

In his address, President Bio underscored the necessity for a unified and coordinated response from the African Union (AU) to tackle the situation in Sudan. He highlighted the deteriorating humanitarian conditions and stressed the importance of including all stakeholders in the peace process to ensure a comprehensive and lasting solution.

“At today’s African Union’s Peace and Security Council Virtual Summit of Heads of State and Government, I reaffirmed the need for a unified, coordinated, and immediate response to the conflict in Sudan. It is critical to ensure that the voices of all stakeholders are heard in our bid to find an immediate solution to this crisis where the humanitarian situation is becoming more dire,” President Bio stated.

The President’s remarks reflect a growing concern among African leaders about the worsening situation in Sudan, where violence has led to significant loss of life, displacement, and a dire need for humanitarian assistance. The AU Peace and Security Council’s focus on Sudan aims to mobilize support and formulate strategies that can effectively address the crisis and pave the way for sustainable peace.

President Bio also expressed his gratitude to Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Chairperson of the African Union Peace and Security Council, for convening the critical meeting. “I want to thank the chairperson of the African Union’s Peace and Security Council and H.E President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for convening this important meeting,” he added.

The AU Peace and Security Council is expected to continue its efforts in facilitating dialogue and promoting peace in Sudan. The virtual summit marks a significant step in the AU’s ongoing commitment to resolving conflicts across the continent and highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing complex humanitarian crises. As the situation in Sudan remains precarious, the international community will be closely monitoring the AU’s initiatives and responses in the coming days.