The African Union (AU) has taken a decisive step toward addressing the worsening security and humanitarian crises in the Sahel region by appointing President Évariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi as Special Envoy for the Sahel. The announcement was made by the Chairperson of the African Union, H.E. João Lourenço, who is also the President of the Republic of Angola, on Thursday, July 7.
In a statement released by the AU, the Chairperson expressed his appreciation to President Ndayishimiye for accepting what he described as a “strategic political assignment in the collective interest of the Union.” The appointment places President Ndayishimiye at the forefront of the AU’s renewed diplomatic and collaborative initiatives in one of Africa’s most volatile regions.
“President Ndayishimiye will spearhead the renewed African Union’s high-level diplomatic support and collaborative efforts aimed at addressing the prevailing security and humanitarian challenges in the Sahel.”
Chairperson of the African Union, H.E. João Lourenço
The Special Envoy’s mandate is far-reaching. He is tasked with intensifying engagement with a wide array of actors, including governmental authorities, regional organizations, civil society, and opinion leaders. His objective will be to foster dialogue, build consensus, and develop inclusive strategies for lasting peace and stability in the Sahel.
“The Special Envoy’s mandate covers intensifying engagements with the governmental authorities, opinion leaders, regional actors and organizations, civil society, and all relevant stakeholders to foster dialogue, build consensus, and promote comprehensive strategies towards durable peace and stability within the Sahel region.”
Chairperson of the African Union, H.E. João Lourenço
AU Seeks Broader Regional Cooperation
The appointment comes at a critical time for the Sahel, a region grappling with extremist violence, political instability, and a growing humanitarian crisis. The AU’s decision underscores a renewed urgency to elevate peacebuilding efforts and regional cooperation.
In his role as AU Champion for Youth, Peace and Security, President Ndayishimiye has already earned continental recognition for his commitment to Pan-African values and strategic diplomacy. His new designation as Special Envoy signals the AU’s confidence in his capacity to navigate the region’s complex political terrain.
“President Ndayishimiye brings with him very rich political experience, and impeccable credentials of resolute commitment to Pan-Africanism, regional integration, and cooperation. The appointment reflects the African Union’s steadfast commitment to supporting peacebuilding and regional cooperation in one of Africa’s most critical regions.”
Chairperson of the African Union, H.E. João Lourenço
The Chairperson further expressed strong belief in the Burundian leader’s potential to advance the AU’s long-standing goal of silencing the guns on the continent. The Special Envoy is expected to begin his work in the region immediately.
“The Chairperson of the African Union has expressed full confidence in President Ndayishimiye’s ability to advance the Union’s vision through his distinguished leadership and deep understanding of the continent’s complex dynamics.
“In effect, this appointment is to foster the African Union’s drive to permanently silence the guns and promote peace, security, stability, and political dialogue in the Sahel region.”
Chairperson of the African Union, H.E. João Lourenço
To ensure the success of this mission, the AU is urging all its institutions, stakeholders, and international partners to rally behind the new envoy.
“The Chairperson of the African Union therefore calls on the AU Commission, the AU Mission in the Sahel (MISAHEL); all stakeholders, and the international community to extend support to the Special Envoy, who is expected to immediately commence his engagements in the region.”
Chairperson of the African Union, H.E. João Lourenço
This high-level appointment marks a renewed chapter in the African Union’s ongoing commitment to restoring peace and resilience in the Sahel, a region whose stability is vital to the security of the continent as a whole.
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