In line with its enduring commitment to promoting peace, security, and stability across the continent, the African Union (AU) Bureau of the Assembly convened its first virtual meeting of 2025 on April 5th. Chaired by H.E. João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola and current Chairperson of the African Union, the high-level session focused on advancing the peace process between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Rwanda.

The central agenda of the meeting was the appointment of a new Mediator for the AU’s ongoing engagement in addressing the protracted conflict in the eastern DRC. The session was graced by distinguished leaders, including:

• H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana

• H.E. Prosper Bazombanza, Vice President of the Republic of Burundi

• H.E. Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, President of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania

• Hon. Amb. Mahmoud Thabit Kombo (MP), Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, United Republic of Tanzania

• H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission

A Call for Leadership Continuity

In his opening remarks, President Lourenço painted a sobering picture of the deteriorating humanitarian situation in eastern DRC, emphasizing the immense suffering of civilians and the region’s growing instability. He lauded the AU’s sustained mediation efforts, notably the alignment of the Nairobi and Luanda processes and the appointment of African facilitators during the joint summit of the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Announcing his decision to step down from the mediation role due to expanded responsibilities as AU Chairperson, President Lourenço stressed the importance of maintaining momentum in the mediation process. He proposed H.E. Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of the Togolese Republic, as his successor, highlighting that preliminary consultations had garnered a positive response from President Gnassingbé, pending formal approval by the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government.

Unanimous Endorsement

The Bureau unanimously endorsed the proposal, underscoring collective commitment to sustaining the mediation gains. H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, extended gratitude to President Lourenço for his exemplary leadership. He confirmed that the Commission will follow the established procedures, notably the “silence procedure,” to finalize President Gnassingbé’s appointment in accordance with AU legal frameworks.

The Commission pledged to circulate detailed documentation, including a proposed roadmap and institutional support structures, to ensure a smooth and inclusive endorsement process.

AU’s Unwavering Commitment to Peace

As the African Union advances this pivotal transition in mediation leadership, it remains steadfast in its commitment to a peaceful resolution of the DRC conflict. The AU calls on all stakeholders to engage constructively, upholding the values of African solidarity and Pan-Africanism.

The continent and the world now look ahead with cautious optimism as Africa’s leaders continue to work tirelessly towards peace in the Great Lakes region.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Mr. Nuur Mohamud Sheekh
Spokesperson of the Chairperson | African Union Commission
📧 Email: SheekhN@AfricanUnion.org
📞 Telephone: +251911510515; +251115182903
📍 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia