On 30 January, the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) convened its 1329th meeting in open session to commemorate the Fourth African Day of Peace and Reconciliation, focusing on lessons learnt and experiences from Angola, Sierra Leone and South Africa.
The meeting was held under the chairpersonship of the Permanent Representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the African Union and Chair of the Peace and Security Council for January 2026, Ambassador Jean Léon Ilunga Ngandu.
In his opening remarks, the Chair emphasised that peace and reconciliation should not be approached as a ceremonial exercise, but as an opportunity for deep reflection and renewed commitment. He encouraged Member States to draw lessons from countries that have transitioned from conflict to unity, noting the leadership of the President of Angola, current Chairperson of the African Union and Champion for Peace and Reconciliation in Africa.
In his remarks, the Special Representative of the Secretary General to the African Union and Head of UNOAU, Parfait Onanga-Anyanga, recalled the United Nations’ continued support to national reconciliation efforts across the continent through peace operations, political missions, electoral assistance and support to transitional justice. He underscored the importance of dialogue, inclusive governance and addressing the root causes of conflict, noting that reconciliation and sustainable peace require long term commitment, difficult decisions and visionary leadership.
