The United Nations Office to the African Union (UNOAU) and the Climate Security Mechanism (CSM), with support from the Government of Switzerland, successfully concluded a two-day Africa Climate, Peace and Security Advisors and Experts Strategic Coordination Workshop in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Held on 24–25 June 2025, the workshop brought together technical experts and advisors from across the continent to strengthen collaboration and define a shared strategic direction in response to the growing impact of climate change on peace and security in Africa.

In his opening remarks, Parfait Onanga-Anyanga, Special Representative of the Secretary-General to the African Union (SRSG) and Head of UNOAU, emphasized “Supporting African leadership and strengthening climate resilience and peacebuilding is not only a strategic imperative, it is a moral obligation. Let us use this platform to deepen our community of purpose—one that advances conflict-sensitive climate action and climate-informed peacebuilding, attuned to the lived experiences across the continent.”

The SRSG was joined by Ambassador Pietro Mona, Permanent Representative of Switzerland to the African Union, IGAD, and UNECA, and Mr. Harsen Nyambe, Director for Sustainable Environment and Blue Economy at the African Union Commission.

Ambassador Mona stressed that climate change is a major driver of instability, noting, “Climate action is also peacebuilding. It is our shared challenge and responsibility. Across the globe, climate shocks are eroding livelihoods, displacing families, and deepening insecurity. Through conflict-sensitive climate initiatives and multilateral cooperation, including in Africa, Switzerland is committed to supporting sustainable solutions that promote resilience and peace.”

Mr. Harsen Nyambe underscored the need to address the root causes of climate-related conflict, such as natural resource scarcity and food insecurity, while reaffirming the AU’s commitment to joint action with UNOAU. “Today’s dialogue is a step toward a more sustainable, secure Africa where climate action is a pathway to peace,” he stated, highlighting upcoming milestones like the Africa Climate Summit and COP30.

Participants included Climate, Peace and Security Advisors (CPSAs) and experts from Somalia, South Sudan, the Horn of Africa, Central and West Africa and the Sahel, Lake Chad Basin, and the Liptako-Gourma region, alongside representatives from the African Union, Regional Economic Communities, UN agencies, think tanks, and development partners.

Sessions explored how to align UN and AU efforts, strengthen early warning and response systems, and develop a coordinated roadmap ahead of key events such as the Second Africa Climate Summit and COP30. Discussions also emphasized the importance of sustained financing and strategic communication to amplify impact and influence global policy.

A key outcome of the workshop was the agreement to establish a regular coordination forum for UN Climate, Peace and Security Advisors and Experts working across Africa, supported by a rotating CPSA Chair. The forum will drive joint analysis, integrated programming, and resource mobilization to strengthen resilience across African regions.