African leaders demand ceasefires, UN reform as crises overshadow water summit

Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye, the newly installed African Union chair, declared restoring peace the bloc's paramount mission. "We need to silence the guns. We need peace on this continent. We need stability on this continent, and we have a program for that," he stated at the closing briefing. The stark message reflected how intensifying conflicts across Africa have eclipsed development priorities.

Sudan crisis labeled 'worst humanitarian situation globally'

AU Peace and Security Commissioner Bankole Adeoye delivered a grim assessment of Sudan's ongoing civil war, describing it as "the worst humanitarian crisis globally" while lamenting its scant international attention. The conflict, which erupted in April 2023, continues to destabilize the region with little media coverage despite its catastrophic scale. "Our number one goal is a permanent, unconditional, inclusive, immediate ceasefire," Adeoye emphasized, underscoring the AU's determination to prioritize ending the bloodshed.

Renewed push for Security Council reform

The summit reignited Africa's longstanding demand for restructuring the UN Security Council, which leaders argue no longer reflects contemporary global realities. Adeoye stressed that the council "must reflect the world of today," reiterating the continent's call for permanent representation. This push aligns with broader efforts by emerging powers, including Türkiye, to reform international governance structures and amplify voices from the Global South in multilateral decision-making.

Linking development to stability

AU Commission Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf highlighted the inseparable connection between basic services and sustainable peace. "Without equitable access to water and sanitation, we cannot talk of public health or inclusive development or sustainable prosperity for our people," he warned. Though the summit's water security theme received diminished attention amid urgent conflict discussions, leaders reaffirmed that addressing resource disparities remains essential for long-term continental stability. The AU also reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward unconstitutional government changes, signaling continued opposition to military coups.