Troika & EU support AU Resolution on Sudan conflict

THE only hope now for people of Sudan and South Sudan to live in peace and flourish is that all Africans, Arabs and their friends across the world join hands in friendship to give peace a chance. A tall order but not impossible.

This report says the international community has reaffirmed its support for the African Union's Roadmap for the Resolution of the Conflict in Sudan.

Report at The Star - the-star.co.ke

By SHARON MWENDE 

Dated Monday 29 May 2023; 17:17 - full copy:

ROADMAP

Troika, European Union support AU's resolution on Sudan conflict

They also agreed with the condemnation of the ongoing crisis of the two warring parties

In Summary

During the meeting, the AU adopted a Roadmap for the Resolution of the Conflict which includes silencing guns in Sudan.

It called on Sudanese stakeholders and the international community to support the implementation of the Roadmap.

EU flag .Image: FILE

The International Community has reaffirmed its support for the African Union's Roadmap for the Resolution of the Conflict in Sudan.

In a statement released by the US Department of State on Monday [May 29], Spokesperson Matthew Miller welcomed the decision to ensure coordinated action in the peace process. 

The community includes Norway, the United Kingdom, the United States of America and the European Union (the Troika plus EU).

"The Troika plus EU reaffirms its support for African leadership and the AU's Roadmap for the Resolution of the Conflict in Sudan, and welcomes the AU’s work to establish an Expanded Mechanism and its Core Group to ensure inclusively and coordinated regional and international action to secure a viable peace process, and the resumption of the transition to civilian government and democracy in Sudan," it said.

The statement comes after the AU held a Heads of State and government Peace and Security Council meeting on the situation in Sudan on Saturday, May 27.

During the meeting, the AU adopted a Roadmap for the Resolution of the Conflict which includes silencing guns in Sudan.

It called on Sudanese stakeholders and the international community to support the implementation of the Roadmap.

The leaders reaffirmed six elements which are outlined in the Roadmap including the establishment of a coordination mechanism to ensure all efforts by the regional and global actors are harmonised and impactful,  an immediate, permanent, inclusive and comprehensive cessation of hostilities.

Others are effective humanitarian response, protection of civilians and civil infrastructure, strategic role of neighboring states and the region and resumption of a credible and inclusive political transition process, that takes into account the contributory role of all Sudanese political and social actors, as well as the signatories to the Juba Peace Agreement, towards a democratic civilian-led government.

The Expanded Mechanism on Sudan and its Core Group is an all-inclusive platform of regional, continental and global actors and institutions.

It aims to provide broad-based and coordinated engagement within the international community, to foster political consensus and common global support for Sudan.

The Core Group stresses the need for the AU to continue to effectively coordinate the activities of the Expanded Mechanism on the conflict in Sudan.

Further, the leaders condemned the ongoing conflict between the Sudan Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, terming it as "senseless" and "unjustified."

AU chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat demanded an immediate ceasefire without preconditions. 

He said this was going to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian assistance to Sudanese in dire need.

He urged the international community to extend humanitarian aid to the persons fleeing the war in Sudan.

Troika and EU further welcomed the chairperson's demand for conflict cessation.

"We agree with the AU’s condemnation of the actions of the two warring parties and the suffering they have caused the people of Sudan," Miller said.

The ongoing conflict has led to the loss of more than 822 lives and more than 3,000 wounded.

It has also resulted in the displacement of persons and the destruction of infrastructure.

View original:  https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2023-05-29-troika-european-union-support-aus-resolution-on-sudan-conflict/

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Khartoum orphanage - 50 children including 24 babies died as fighting prevented staff reaching them

Hat tip with thanks to William Carter tweet and Evelyn Tremble @DrumChronicles https://twitter.com/DrumChronicles: #Sudan fighting - Khartoum largest orphanage - 50 children including 24 babies have died some of starvation as fighting between RSF militia and military prevented staff and humanitarian aid reaching the facility https://reut.rs/3WCVFoe

Even amid the overwhelmingly horrific accounts from across the country, this is one of the most jarring reports so far

I have such great sorrow, and so few words ...

Rest their sweet little souls https://t.co/hfMlsFHLaM

— William Carter (@WillCarter_NRC) May 29, 2023

SW Ed: So sad. Lost for words. God Bless and Rest in Peace + + +

Sudan: Dig ditch instead of making wall to block road!

Sudanese ingenuity makes me smile. This photo shows a road block. Tyre billows smoke when on fire. Residents are now digging ditches across roads!

#Sudan #Khartoum residents dig ditches to block roads in their neighbourhoods to RSF vehicles. RSF forces often stay in/around homes in residential areas to protect themselves from army bombardments, thereby endangering local residents. #KeepEyesOnSudan - pic.twitter.com/szkxpJfvEL

— Donatella Rovera (@DRovera) May 22, 2023

Note, the video shows a neat brick road block. Hat tip with thanks to Eric Reeves' retweeting this video from @DRovera at @sudanreeves May 23.

AU adopts Roadmap for Resolution of Sudan Conflict

Report at ModernGhana.com

By Xinhua

Dated Sunday 28 May 2023 - full copy:

AU adopts roadmap to resolve conflict in Sudan

ADDIS ABABA, May 28 (Xinhua) -- The African Union (AU) has adopted the Roadmap for the Resolution of the Conflict in Sudan toward silencing the guns in Sudan.

The roadmap was adopted during the AU Peace and Security Council meeting that was held at the heads of state and government level on Saturday, focusing on the situation in Sudan, the AU said in a communique issued on Sunday.

The roadmap outlined six elements that include the establishment of a coordination mechanism to ensure all efforts by the regional and global actors are harmonized and impactful; an immediate, permanent, inclusive and comprehensive cessation of hostilities; and an effective humanitarian response.

The high-level meeting underscored the overriding importance of a single, inclusive and consolidated peace process for Sudan, coordinated under the joint auspices of the AU, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the League of Arab States and the United Nations, along with like-minded partners.

"The council, with deep concern, strongly condemns the ongoing senseless and unjustified conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has resulted in an unprecedented dire humanitarian situation, indiscriminate killing of innocent civilians," the statement said.

Sudan has witnessed deadly armed clashes between the SAF and the paramilitary RSF in the capital of Khartoum and other areas since April 15, with the two sides accusing each other of initiating the conflict.

According to the Sudanese Doctors Union, the number of civilian deaths since the beginning of the clashes has risen to 863, with 3,531 injuries. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs recently said over 1 million people have been displaced since the conflict. 

View original: http://www.chinaview.cn/africa/20230529/0b44d0bd899a482eb32488590d93fa91/c.html

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The mass looting of Khartoum’s shops and markets

Report at AYIN NETWORK

Dated Sunday 28 May 2022 

The mass looting of Khartoum’s shops and markets

Traders and civilians stare at empty shelves and face critical shortages

Omdurman Market deserted (social media)

A war-ravaged market in Khartoum (Ayin)

Full story: https://3ayin.com/en/looting/

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This destruction of Sudan is dehumanising its people

Report at OHCHR.org

Dated 23 May 2023 - excerpt:

Sudan suffering “dehumanizing”, UN human rights expert Radhouane Nouicer

GENEVA (23 May 2023) - The UN expert on human rights in Sudan on Tuesday described the level of civilian suffering from the ongoing fighting as dehumanizing.

“This is the destruction of a country in a way that is dehumanizing its people,” said Radhouane Nouicer, who was appointed late last year by the High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk upon request of the UN Human Rights Council to document and report human rights violations committed in Sudan since the 25 October 2021 coup. 

“What is going on is as bad as anything I have seen in conflict zones over the course of my long career. It is horrifying, tragic, brutal, and completely unnecessary. The full array of human rights - economic, social and cultural as much as civil and political - are being violated, and both parties have singularly failed to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law.”

Full story: https://www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2023/05/sudan-suffering-dehumanizing-un-human-rights-expert-radhouane-nouicer

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Gunfire adds to violations near end of Sudan truce

IN SIX WEEKS of urban warfare, more than 1,800 people have been killed, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project.

Nearly 1.4 million people have been displaced both within Sudan and to neighbouring countries, according to the United Nations.

A record 25 million people, more than half the population, are now in need of humanitarian assistance to survive, according to the UN.

Read more in report by AFP dated Sunday 28 May 2023:

Gunfire adds to violations near end of breached Sudan truce

A looted petrol station in southern Khartoum. (AFP)

The exodus continues -- people flee with their belongings from Khartoum's twin city of Omdurman. (AFP)

The truce has allowed some to venture out, including this man and boy in Omdurman. (AFP)

Full story: https://www.modernghana.com/news/1233858/gunfire-adds-to-violations-near-end-of-breached.html

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Dr Alaaeldin Nugud, SG of Sudan Surgeons Assoc & member of FFCC abducted by gunmen in Khartoum

Dr Alaaeldin Nugud, the sec-gen of the #Sudan Association of Surgeons and member of the Forces of Freedom and Change-Central Council, was kidnapped by a group armed men in #Khartoum yesterday #SudanNews https://t.co/wqIGW9lfks

— Radio Dabanga (@RadioDabanga) May 28, 2023

Sudan crisis: Hamdto al-Turabi Muhammad Hamadtou killed by terrorists in Nyala, South Darfur

GOUJA AHMED @qoga12 #NyalaWar 23 May Update: The killing of the young man (Hamdto al-Turabi Muhammad Hamadtou) in the Al-Jumhuriya neighborhood, Nyala, today, Tuesday, by armed militias, after they attacked and looted the Al-Jumhuriya neighborhood.

#NyalaWar 23May Update
مقتل الشاب (حمدتو الترابي محمد حمدتو) بحي الجمهورية نيالا نهار اليوم الثلاثاء على أيدي المليشيات المسلحة بعد هجومهم ونهبهم لحي الجمهورية. pic.twitter.com/cJ8EqNoXR9

— GOUJA AHMED (@qoga12) May 23, 2023

Condolences. God bless. Rest in Peace + + +

Sudan crisis: Darfur governor Minawi calls on Darfuris to arm against Militia attacks and SAF & RSF fighting

NOTE from Sudan Watch Editor:

Sudan's acting defence minister Yassin Ibrahim Yassin on Friday called on retired soldiers to report to the nearest army base to get armed. “We call on all pensioners of the armed forces, including officers, non-commissioned officers, soldiers and all those who are able to carry arms, to go to the nearest military base to get armed,” Mr Yassin said in a statement, adding that the move was intended to enable those people to defend themselves.

Today (Sun 28 May) Darfur Governor and ex-rebel group leader Minni Minawi has called out for Darfuris to arm themselves in self defence against attacks by Militia and SAF and RSF fighting. 

Note that they can afford guns and ammunition while the international community's taxpayers are expected to keep paying for millions of Sudanese people upended by their people. I'll be surprised if the UN meets its funding target for aid. Europe has war at its door. EU and USA have Sudan fatigue.

Soon Sudan will be awash with guns like the US where there are Militia and almost every home has a gun while all Americans have a right to bear Arms.

The right to keep and bear arms in the United States is a fundamental right protected by the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution, part of the Bill of Rights, and by the constitutions of most US states.

The Second Amendment of the United States Constitution reads: "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed."

My point is, Sudan rarely seems appreciative of the help it receives and is now demanding and picky. The US is not in a position to tell another country to lay down arms and silence guns. Also, the US refuses to sign up to the ICC so is unable to call for Sudan's war criminals to be put on trial at the ICC. 

Former rebel leader and Darfur governor calls on Darfuris to raise arms in self defense amid militia attacks and fighting between the army and RSF in different cities.

Some, particularly in Geneina, have already done so, but of course this raises the risk of extensive violence. https://t.co/VNgSCZ8G9m

— Nafisa Eltahir (@nafisaeltahir) May 28, 2023

Further reading:

Report at The Independent Uganda
Dated Sunday 28 May 2023
Sudanese army calls on retired soldiers to get arms for self-defence
https://www.independent.co.ug/author/dwabomba/ 

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Sudan crisis: The plight of casual labourers is dire –without daily income many can't make ends meet

THIS brought tears to my eyes seeing proud dignified men facing despair.

As the conflict in Sudan continues into a second month, the plight of casual labourers is increasingly dire –without access to a daily source of income– many now struggle more than ever to make ends meet. Ayin managed to catch up with some daily workers in Al-Thawra, Omdurman, to… pic.twitter.com/qneEgZxYtT

— Ayin Network - شبكة عاين (@AyinSudan) May 18, 2023

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Sudan: Hundreds of missing people. Are you looking for a member of your family? Here's how to get help

Everyday terror in Khartoum, the hundreds of notices of missing people are just appalling “M. 14, went out to buy bread on the morning of May 17 and has never been seen since…” #Sudan pic.twitter.com/zEysOMDrvq

— Sarra Majdoub (@SarraMajd) May 27, 2023

Looking for a family member? Here's how to get help, call ICRC:

هل تبحث عن أحد أفراد عائلتك؟ إليكم طريقة الحصول على المساعدة #السودان pic.twitter.com/C5QNF0XXrQ

— ICRC Sudan (@ICRC_Sudan) May 7, 2023

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Egypt's Sisi zooms AUPSC meeting to discuss Sudan, urges int'l community to support Sudan’s neighbours

Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi participates in a virtual meeting for the African Union’s Peace and Security Council (PSC) at the Heads of State and Government level on the situation in Sudan. AU

Report at Ahram Online

Dated Saturday 27 May 2023 - full copy:

Sisi urges int'l community to support Sudan’s neighbours in resolving crisis

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi urged the international community to support the efforts of Sudan's neighbours in resolving the conflict as well as in dealing with its immediate humanitarian consequences.

The Egyptian president made these remarks in a speech during a virtual meeting for the African Union’s Peace and Security Council (PSC), held at the level of heads of state and government, to discuss ways to resolve the conflict in Sudan.

The meeting was chaired by Uganda’s President Yoweri K Museveni and was attended by a number of African heads of state and government as well as a number of high-level officials, including Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul-Gheit and the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Hanna Tetteh.

It discussed efforts toward finding a sustainable ceasefire and resuming a civilian-led democratic process in the country, effective humanitarian action, and ways to ensure regional stability.

"I call on humanitarian organizations and donor countries to provide the necessary support to Sudan's neighbouring countries so they can continue to fulfil this role," El-Sisi said.

The Egyptian president stressed that the humanitarian consequences of Sudan's crisis extend beyond its borders and impact neighbouring countries, thus necessitating close coordination with them.

"Egypt has met its obligations in this regard by accepting approximately 150,000 displaced Sudanese citizens to date, in addition to hosting approximately five million other Sudanese citizens who are treated as nationals," El-Sisi noted.

Egypt will continue coordinating with its partners and relief organizations to provide urgent humanitarian aid to alleviate a deteriorating situation, he said.

During his speech, the Egyptian president emphasized the necessity for regional parties "to assist the Sudanese in ending the current crisis and achieving a consensus to address the underlying causes that led to its outbreak in the first place."

The Egyptian president stressed the need for close coordination among Sudan’s neighbouring states to resolve the crisis, noting that "these states are the most affected by the crisis and, therefore, are the keenest to end it as soon as possible."

He also outlined Egypt’s efforts in cooperating with the African Union and the Arab League to end the crisis in Sudan based on finding a comprehensive and sustainable ceasefire and preserving state institutions.

"Egypt backs the efforts of the African Union and all the existing mechanisms that aim at ending the current conflict," El-Sisi said.

“Preserving national institutions in Sudan is the basic guarantee to protect the state from the danger of collapse,” he stressed.

The Egyptian president also reaffirmed Cairo's respect for the will of the Sudanese people in their internal affairs, stressing the need to prevent foreign interference in Sudan's affairs.

Meeting humanitarian challenge

Egypt has supported regional and international efforts to end the conflict in Sudan since its start in mid-April, pushing for a sustainable ceasefire between the two warring parties.

The conflict in Sudan has left 700 dead, including tens of children, according to UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Sudan Volker Perthes.

 

Related

Egypt, UNHCR discuss mobilizing aid for displaced Sudanese

Egypt’s FM discusses humanitarian efforts in Sudan with UN officials in Geneva

UN allocates $5 mln to support refugees fleeing Sudan in Egypt

View original: https://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/1234/501763/Egypt/Foreign-Affairs/Sisi-urges-int;l-community-to-support-Sudan’s-neig.aspx

________________________________

Africa Press Release at Zawya.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of 

The Presidency, The Arab Republic of Egypt

Dated Saturday 27 May 2023 - full copy:

President El-Sisi Participates in African Peace and Security Council Summit via Video Conference

Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi participated via video conference in the African Peace and Security Council Summit to discuss the current crisis in Sudan, in the presence of a number of African heads of state and government, headed by the President of the Republic of Uganda and current Chair of the AU Peace and Security Council, President Yoweri Museveni, in addition to the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Secretary-General of the Arab League, Secretary-General of IGAD and Envoy of the Secretary-General of the United Nations for the Horn of Africa.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Counselor Ahmed Fahmy, said the summit focused on discussing de-escation in Sudan, coordination among all parties concerned with the ceasefire, enhancement of humanitarian corridors and return to peaceful dialogue.

Addressing the summit, President El-Sisi  thanked President Museveni for the initiative to convene this important summit, which is of great value to support Sudan to restore its security and stability. The President stressed the utmost importance of close coordination with neighboring states to solve the crisis in Sudan, as they are the most affected and most keen to end the crisis at the soonest.

The President stressed that Egypt's efforts to end the current crisis in Sudan complement the various relevant regional tracks, including those of the African Union and Arab League. They are also based on a number of pillars, most notably the need for a comprehensive and sustainable ceasefire and the protection of national institutions in Sudan, which primary safeguard against the threat of collapse, in addition to affirming that the conflict in Sudan involves the Sudanese people, and therefore the regional parties' role is to help them stop it and to achieve consensus on resolving the causes of its eruption.

President El-Sisi emphasised Egypt's respect for the will of the Sudanese people and non-interference in its internal affairs, as well as the need not to allow foreign interventions in its current crisis. The President reaffirmed Egypt's continued efforts to end the current crisis by supporting the African Union's efforts and all existing mechanisms to end the current conflict, as well as to continue coordination with all partners and relief organizations to provide urgent humanitarian needs for Sudan, to alleviate the deteriorating humanitarian situation.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency, The Arab Republic of Egypt. 

View original: https://www.zawya.com/en/press-release/africa-press-releases/president-el-sisi-participates-in-african-peace-and-security-council-summit-via-video-conference-n5dprw76

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NEW COLD WAR? Africa must not become ‘geostrategic battleground’ warns AU leaders

Report at TheAfricaReport.com

By AFP (Agence France-Presse)

Dated Friday 26 May 2023; 09:24 - full copy:

NEW COLD WAR?

Africa must not become ‘geostrategic battleground’ warns AU

Moussa Faki Mahamat (1st L), Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) looks at a photo exhibition during the 60th anniversary of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), now African Union (AU), at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa on May 25, 2023. (Photo by Amanuel Sileshi / AFP)

Africa must not become a “geostrategic battleground” for global powers, as it grapples with several threats to its own peace and security, African Union leaders warn.

The continent of 1.3 billion people has found itself at the centre of a tussle for influence among the major powers, which has redoubled since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine 15 months ago.

And just as the AU marked the anniversary of the creation of its forerunner, the Organisation of African Unity, on this day in 1963, Ukraine itself announced it wanted to boost ties with Africa.

“In this international context of confrontation of divergent political interests, the will of each side threatens to transform Africa into a geostrategic battleground, thereby creating a new Cold War,” AU Commission chair Moussa Faki Mahamat said.

“In this zero-sum game, where the gains of others would translate into losses for Africa, we must resist all forms of instrumentalisation of our member states,” he added in an address at AU headquarters in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa.

Moscow is seeking deeper political, economic and military ties in Africa as well as Asia as Russia becomes increasingly isolated on the international stage over the conflict in Ukraine.

‘Capacity for resilience’

Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, who is currently on a tour of Africa, on Wednesday urged certain African nations to end their “neutrality” over the war.

In February, 22 AU member states abstained or did not vote on a UN General Assembly resolution that called for Russia withdraw from Ukraine.

Two of them – Eritrea and Mali – voted against the resolution.

And in a statement to mark the pan-African body’s anniversary, Kuleba also announced a Ukrainian diplomatic push on the continent.

“We want to develop a new quality of partnership based on three mutual principles: mutual respect, mutual interests, and mutual benefits,” he said, announcing plans to establish new embassies in Africa and hold a Ukraine-Africa summit.

In this zero-sum game, where the gains of others would translate into losses for Africa, we must resist all forms of instrumentalisation of our member states.

Moscow itself has scheduled a Russia-Africa summit in July, following a trip to several African countries at the start of the year by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

China and the US have also despatched their foreign ministers to the continent in rival diplomatic offensives this year.

Beijing has funded major infrastructure development in Africa but denies Western charges it is practising “debt-trap diplomacy”, while Russia is a key arms exporter and is making forays through mining projects, analysts say.

‘Conflicts and terrorism persist’

Faki meanwhile also hailed the successes of the 54-nation AU which succeeded the OAU in 2002: “Independence and victory against apartheid, that of significant economic and scientific progress, sports, arts, the growing international role of Africa and so on.”

However, he also acknowledged “negative factors such as democratic decline through unconstitutional changes of government, with their litany of oppression and gagging of freedoms, insecurity, the spread of terrorism, violent extremism, the uncontrolled circulation of arms, the harmful effects of climate change”.

Despite the difficulties, Faki said, Africa remains “characterised by its greater capacity for resilience”, pointing for example to its response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The current head of the African Union, Comoros President Azali Assoumani also denounced “the unconstitutional changes of power” which have multiplied in Africa in recent years.

“Inter and intra-African conflicts but also terrorism persists and consequently the peace, security, democracy and development of our continent are threatened in several of our countries,” he said.

Assoumani spoke of the conflict between rival generals in Sudan which erupted in mid-April and has persisted despite several truce agreements.

“We must convince our brothers in Sudan to favour dialogue so that the fratricidal war raging in this country ends,” he added.

View original: https://www.theafricareport.com/310874/africa-must-not-become-geostrategic-battleground-warns-au/

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Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) starts 2-week training rapid reaction forces at UN centre in Uganda

COULD THIS BE what I hope it is: a long awaited African rapid reaction force for crises such as Sudan? This report says 10 East African countries started a 2-week joint training at a UN Regional Service Centre in Uganda.

Report at The Independent Uganda

By Xinhua

Dated Tuesday 23 May 2023 - full copy:

East African countries start training of rapid reaction forces

Joint training started. FILE PHOTO

Kampala, Uganda | Xinhua | Troops from 10 East African countries on Monday began a two-week training at the United Nations Regional Service Centre in Uganda.

Personnel from Burundi, Comoros, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Seychelles, Somalia, Sudan and Uganda participated in the training that aims to create synergies and enhance the knowledge and understanding of peace support mission planning, said the East African Standby Force (EASF) in a statement.

“We cannot fulfil our mandate of enhancing peace and security without an effective planning entity for our region,” said Uganda’s Chief of Staff of the Air Force Brig. David Gonyi.

He said the training will enable regional countries to respond to scenarios like terrorism, election violence and disaster management.

“There is no doubt that the commitment given to this learning process is a clear testimony that capacity building and enhancement have a place they deserve in Africa and the region,” Gonyi said.

The EASF, which consists of military, police and civilian components, was established to provide capability for rapid deployment of forces to carry out preventive deployment, rapid intervention, peace support and stability operations, and peace enforcement.

View original: https://www.independent.co.ug/east-african-countries-start-training-of-rapid-reaction-forces/

___________________________

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia:

AFRICAN STANDBY FORCE (ASF) 

The African Standby Force (ASF) is an international, continental African, and multidisciplinary peacekeeping force with military, police and civilian contingents that acts under the direction of the African Union. The ASF is to be deployed in times of crisis in Africa.^[2] Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, serves as the Force's Headquarters. Douala, Cameroon, was selected in 2011 as the site of the AU's Continental Logistics Base (LOGBASE).^[3]

Map of the partitioning of RECs and RMs of the ASF

___________________________

EASTERN AFRICA STANDBY FORCE (EASF)

In the East of the continent, the regional agent of African Standby Force (ASF) is known as the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF).

The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF), formerly Eastern Africa Standby Brigade (EASBRIG), is one of the five regional forces for Peace Support Operations (PSOs) of the African Standby Force, consisting of military, police and civilian components. 

EASF constitutes the regional operational arm of the peacekeeping elements of the African Peace and Security Architecture, put in place by the 2002 Protocol Relating to the Establishment of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union.^[1][2]

East Africa Standby Force Logo

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UN chief Guterres: “With international cooperation and solidarity, this can be Africa’s century”

Stand with Africa: Guterres

Meanwhile, UN chief António Guterres noted that cooperation and solidarity to advance the continent’s future is more needed than ever.

“I look forward to African governments continuing to seize the opportunities presented by the continent’s natural, human, and entrepreneurial richness, by working to increase private investment and raise resources at home,” he said in his message for Africa Day.

The annual commemoration May celebrates the founding of the Organization of African Union, the African Union precursor, on 25 May 1963.

The Secretary-General urged the international community to stand with Africa as multiple rises – from COVID-19 to climate and conflict – continue to cause great suffering there.

He further stated that African countries are underrepresented in global governance institutions, such as the UN Security Council, and denied the debt relief and concessional funding they need.

“Africa deserves peace, justice and international solidarity,” he said.  “With international cooperation and solidarity, this can be Africa’s century.” 

Read full story at UN News report 25 May 2023:

Security Council urged to step up on financing for AU peace operations

https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/05/1137047

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MSF says Sudan healthcare situation is dire. BBC says attacks on hospitals and staff are potential war crimes

ONLY A HANDFUL of the 88 hospitals in Sudan's capital, Khartoum, remain open after weeks of fighting, according to Sudan's Doctors Union. Both sides in Sudan's conflict could be carrying out war crimes on medical facilities and staff, according to evidence seen by BBC News Arabic. Read more.

⚠️Humanitarian operations in many parts of the country may grind to a halt⚠️

Looting and attacks on healthcare facilities and warehouses have reduced our stock significantly.

We call all conflict parties to ensure humanitarian access and allow us to assist the Sudanese people. pic.twitter.com/acpBrpqNyC

— MSF Sudan (@MSF_Sudan) May 26, 2023

Report at BBC News

Dated Friday 26 May 2023 - excerpt:

Sudan conflict: Hospital attacks potential war crimes, BBC told

Both sides in Sudan's conflict could be carrying out war crimes on medical facilities and staff, according to evidence seen by BBC News Arabic.

Hospitals have been hit by airstrikes and artillery fire while patients were still in the building and doctors have also been singled out for attack - all of which are potential war crimes. 

Only a handful of the 88 hospitals in the capital, Khartoum, remain open after weeks of fighting, according to Sudan's Doctors Union.

Full story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-65718968

[Ends]

US says Wagner provides missiles to RSF's terrorists

Report at Time Turk online

Dated Friday 26 May 2023; 12:37 - excerpt:

US accuses Russia’s Wagner of providing missiles to Sudan's paramilitary forces

Russia's Wagner Group ‘supplying Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces with surface-to-air missiles to fight against Sudan’s army,' says US Treasury Department

ISTANBUL - US Treasury Department accused Russia's private military company Wagner Group of providing missiles to Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and “contributing to a prolonged armed conflict.”

This came on Thursday when the Treasury Department imposed sanctions on Wagner's head in Mali, Ivan Aleksandrovich Maslov, blaming him for attempting to acquire weapons for Russia's war in Ukraine.

“Most recently in Sudan, the Wagner Group has been supplying Sudan's Rapid Support Forces with surface-to-air missiles to fight against Sudan's army, contributing to a prolonged armed conflict that only results in further chaos in the region,” a Treasury statement said.

Last month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that Sudan's legitimate authorities have the right to use the services of the Wagner group.

Earlier, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken voiced "deep concern" over the military company's activities in the war-torn country.

"It's in so many different countries, and in Africa, an element that, when it's engaged, simply brings more death and destruction with it," Blinken said during a joint press conference with his Kenyan counterpart Alfred Mutua.

View original: https://www.timeturk.com/en/us-accuses-russia-s-wagner-of-providing-missiles-to-sudan-s-paramilitary-forces/news-76159

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Prigohzin's Wagner group to 'refocus' on Africa

Report at The Telegraph, UK
By Joe Barnes
Dated 23 March 2023 6:50pm - full copy:

Yevgeny Prigohzin's Wagner group to 'refocus' on Africa after failures in Ukraine

The mercenary group has repeatedly blamed Moscow for failing to keep them supplied with ammunition and manpower

PHOTO Yevgeny Prigozhin, in an undisclosed location in Ukraine, has advertised for new recruits for Africa CREDIT: Prigozhin Press Service

The Wagner Group is preparing to refocus its efforts in Africa and away from Ukraine amid a long-running dispute with Moscow, it has been reported.

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the mercenary group, has repeatedly accused Russia’s defence ministry of stymying his supply of ammunition and manpower. 

Western analysts believe Sergei Shoigu, Russia's defence minister, is trying to stifle Prigozhin's growing political influence.

Wagner mercenaries have spearheaded Moscow's eight-month attempt to capture the besieged city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine. Prigozhin's private military has lost tens of thousands of men, mostly former convicts recruited out of Russian prisons, during the assault – the longest and costliest battle of the war.

Marred by the failure to capture Bakhmut, Prigozhin is planning to shift focus back to Africa, the Bloomberg news agency reported, citing people familiar with the matter.

The suggestion will likely prompt concerns in Moscow after a top Ukrainian general said Kyiv's armed forces were ready to launch a counter-offensive on Bakhmut.

PHOTO Yevgeny Prigozhin, on a roof of a high-rise building in what is said to be Bakhmut, has denied preparing to withdraw from Ukraine

"The attacker has not lost hope of taking Bakhmut at all costs, despite the losses of men and equipment, very soon we will take advantage of this opportunity, as we did near Kyiv, Kharkiv, Balakliya and Kupiansk," Oleksandr Syrskyi, commander of Ukraine's ground forces, said.

Prigozhin, who is known as “Putin's chef” for the catering contracts he won from the Kremlin leader, admitted earlier this month his Wagner forces would have to "reset and cut down its size" after the battle of the Donetsk region city.

Western officials have corroborated reports that the mercenary group has been forced to slow down after deliveries of artillery by Russia's MoD were halted and future prison recruitment drives blocked.

A recruitment notice posted earlier this week invited applicants to come forward for a six-month stint in Ukraine or nine to 14 months in Africa. Those wanting to service in African countries, where Wagner has contracts to protect mines and offer governments security services, were told they would be placed on reserve.

In response to the press reports, Prigozhin denied Wagner was preparing a withdrawal from Ukraine.

"It seems that Bloomberg knows better than we do what we are going to do," he wrote on the Telegram messaging app. "As long as our country needs us, we will remain fighting in Ukraine."

Lull in Bakhmut fighting

British military intelligence has revealed a recent lull in the fighting around Bakhmut, which could be fuelled by Wagner's lack of firepower. The mercenary group recruited up to 40,000 convicts, half of whom have been killed or wounded in the attempt to capture the salt-mining town.

Many of them, former murderers, rapists and thieves, were killed in frontal, human wave attacks, reminiscent of tactics from the First World War.

Prigozhin last week announced a new recruitment drive in sports centres and martial arts clubs across 42 Russian cities. But it is unclear how successful he will be in attracting new recruits given the publicised casualty rate of Wagner's troops.

It is likely the Russian defence ministry will seek to blame Prigozhin personally for an apparent slow down in Moscow's assault on Bakhmut.

In a recent report, the US-based Institute for the Study of War wrote that Shoigu was “likely seizing the opportunity to deliberately expend both elite and convict Wagner forces in Bakhmut in an effort to weaken Prigozhin and derail his ambitions for greater influence in the Kremlin".

View original: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2023/03/23/yevgeny-prigohzins-wagner-group-refocus-africa-failures-ukraine/

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