Ramaphosa Warns Of Worsening Conflicts As AU Reviews Continent’s Security Outlook

ADDIS ABABA — South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has warned that rising instability, unconstitutional changes of government and protracted conflicts continue to threaten Africa’s development trajectory, urging stronger political engagement and coordinated peace efforts across the continent.

Delivering South Africa’s remarks on the report of the African Union Peace and Security Council at the African Union’s 39th Ordinary Session of Heads of State and Government, Ramaphosa said the continent faces a “worsening” security environment that demands renewed urgency from member states.

The address took place at the Nelson Mandela Convention Centre in Addis Ababa, where leaders gathered to review the state of peace and security across Africa.

Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s support for the AU’s long-term development blueprint, Agenda 2063, describing a peaceful and integrated continent as essential for economic growth and stability.

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He cautioned, however, that recent coups and political crises have reversed democratic gains in several countries currently suspended from the AU, stressing the need for structured political engagement to ensure their return to constitutional order.

“The slow transition back to constitutional governance is a concern,” he said, adding that sustained support is necessary to prevent further instability.

Major conflict zones:

Ramaphosa used the platform to highlight several flashpoints that continue to dominate the continental security agenda.

Sudan

He reiterated calls for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan, urging warring parties to allow humanitarian access and commit to inclusive political dialogue as the only viable path to a lasting settlement.

South Sudan

On South Sudan, Ramaphosa expressed concern about ongoing tensions and called for a cessation of hostilities alongside an inclusive process leading to credible elections.

South Africa, working with regional partners, is hosting a C5 Plus Summit aimed at consolidating the peace process and assessing conditions for polls.

Democratic Republic of Congo

Ramaphosa also addressed the deteriorating security situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, condemning the continued capture of territory by the M23/AFC rebel movement in North Kivu, South Kivu and Ituri.

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He stressed that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC must be respected and said South Africa, as chair of the Regional Oversight Mechanism, would work with signatory states to pursue a durable solution.

Collective responsibility

The session was chaired by Évariste Ndayishimiye, current AU chairperson, alongside AU Commission Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf.

Ramaphosa emphasised that peace and stability are prerequisites for economic transformation, calling on member states to strengthen mediation efforts, support humanitarian responses and prioritise democratic governance.

The address underscored a broader reality confronting African leaders: while progress has been made in regional cooperation and institution-building, persistent conflicts continue to undermine development gains and strain humanitarian systems.

With multiple peace processes underway and elections looming in several fragile states, Ramaphosa said collective action through the AU remains the continent’s most important mechanism for preventing further escalation and securing long-term stability.

He concluded by reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to multilateral solutions and to working with partners to advance peace, security and inclusive growth across Africa.