Webinar on: Peace and Security (2)
Participation in a webinar organized by 'The Integration of Africans for the Promotion of Peace' in collaboration with the Somaliland Youth Coalition and the Center for Diplomacy
The second intervention by Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullah Political Analyst & Researcher on African Affairs
The session was moderated by human rights activist and lawyer Ms. Andira El-Zouhairi, . In her opening remarks, she delivered a keynote intervention
At a time when there are numerous oppositions and international agreements, as well as texts and laws that protect human rights and dignity, their effective applications have, however, decreased. In reality, as activists or defenders of human rights, we cannot ignore what the world is going through. Thus, the norms of human rights and the protection of one's dignity, right to life, dignity, and decent living have become arbitrary, even though we all try and fight for better human societies. Despite all the difficulties and challenges, we still believe that we must achieve our noble goals regarding the right to life, safety, and humanity, as well as a decent life to reduce racial, sectarian, religious, and racist discrimination, and we strive to protect women from domestic violence and ensure equality before social, economic, and living rights
Why Africa Struggles to Achieve Sustainable Peace and Security: Challenges and Opportunities
As for Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullah
Sustainable peace and security are not distant ambitions for Africa—they are urgent necessities. Without them, genuine development, national unity, and sovereignty remain out of reach. Yet, despite tireless efforts by African governments, regional organizations, and global partners, large parts of the continent remain marred by conflict, fragility, and insecurity
The Challenges Holding Africa Back
Africa’s path to sustainable peace is blocked by a range of deeply rooted, interlinked challenges
Recurring Conflicts and Civil Wars
Many African countries continue to suffer from armed conflicts driven by ethnic rivalry, competition over resources, and long-standing grievances. From Sudan to the Democratic Republic of Congo and beyond, these conflicts leave behind devastation, displacement, and weakened institutions
Political Instability and Fragile Governance
Military coups, contested elections, and authoritarianism continue to undermine democratic structures. Weak state institutions, corruption, and the erosion of public trust prevent governments from delivering justice, security, and services
Socioeconomic Inequality and Youth Disempowerment
With a rapidly growing young population and high unemployment rates, many African youths feel excluded and frustrated. Poverty, lack of opportunity, and marginalization create fertile ground for radicalization and social unrest
Ethnic and Identity-Based Divisions
Colonial borders ignored ethnic and cultural realities, leading to nations with deeply divided societies. These divisions are often exploited by political elites, intensifying mistrust and polarization
Foreign Interference and Neocolonial Interests
External powers continue to play influential roles in Africa’s conflicts—sometimes funding rival groups, pursuing extractive economic policies, or prioritizing strategic interests over peace and sovereignty
Climate Change and Resource-Based Conflict
Environmental degradation, desertification, and water scarcity increasingly fuel tensions, especially among communities dependent on land and natural resources for survival
The Opportunities That Can Shape a Peaceful Africa
Despite these formidable challenges, the future is not bleak
Africa possesses powerful tools and opportunities that can help transform its destiny
A Rising Generation of Change-Maker
Africa is home to the world’s youngest population. With proper investment in education, innovation, and leadership, youth can be the vanguard of peace, democracy, and progress
Regional Cooperation and Institutional Growth
The African Union and sub-regional bodies such as ECOWAS and IGAD have grown more assertive in peacekeeping and mediation. Strengthening these institutions is vital to long-term stability
Cultural Wisdom and Traditional Peace Mechanisms
African communities have centuries-old systems of dialogue, reconciliation, and restorative justice. Tapping into these traditions can complement formal state-based solutions
The Leadership of Women and Civil Society
Across the continent, women and grassroots organizations are taking a leading role in peacebuilding. Their voices bring inclusivity, empathy, and resilience to the peace process.
Continental Integration and Shared Prosperity
Efforts such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Agenda 2063 show promising steps toward economic cooperation and continental unity—key ingredients for preventing future conflicts
Conclusion
Peace Is Possible, If We Choose It
Africa’s struggle for peace is not a failure—it is a reflection of historical complexities, structural injustices, and evolving geopolitical realities. But the continent is not without hope. With bold leadership, empowered citizens, inclusive policies, and strengthened institutions, Africa can silence the guns and build a future anchored in dignity, justice, and lasting peace
The time for change is now—because peace is not a luxury. It is the foundation on which Africa’s true greatness will be built
