CONAKRY – While protocols and instruments for problem-solving on the African continent exist, former President Thabo Mbeki said that there was a lack of implementation.
Mbeki was speaking at a media briefing by his foundation, which is currently in Conakry, Guinea marking Africa Day.
His annual lecture is also due to take place here, along with a tribute to late South African singer Miriam Makeba, who spent a decade living in the West African country.
Policies adopted by the African Union (AU) empower its Peace and Security Council (PSC) to take the necessary action to quell violent conflict on the African continent but Mbeki said the continent’s failure happened when it must see through those commitments.
“Policies already adopted by the AU empower the PSC to do various things, that’s why I say it’s fit for purpose but it’s on the implementation side that we run into problems.”
He’s also weighed in on ongoing conflict in Sudan, saying the East African community struggled to intervene successfully.
“Igad acted immediately after this conflict broke out in Sudan to try resolve this matter but didn’t make much progress because the generals were not listening to what Igad had to say.”
Mbeki’s annual lecture, which is taking place outside of South Africa’s borders for the first time, will be delivered on Saturday by Guinea’s Professor Siba Grovogui.