Ghana is preparing to welcome a range of key players in Africa's political leadership, private sector, multilateral financial institutions, state owned enterprises, high-net-worth individuals and billionaires for the highly anticipated African Union (AU) Peace Fund event on this Saturday, July 20, 2024.

This event, set to take place at the Kempinski Hotel, aims to gather support from key stakeholders to enhance the AU Peace Fund’s financial stability and further its mission of fostering sustainable peace across the continent.

"The AU Peace Fund event on innovative peace financing mechanisms platform is a pivotal moment for Africa’s peace and security landscape," said Ms. Dagmawit Moges, Director of the AU Peace Fund Secretariat. 

Organised in collaboration with Afreximbank, this event reflects a significant effort to mobilize resources and foster strategic partnerships that will ensure the sustainability of peace initiatives across Africa.

With over 200 high-profile individuals expected to attend, including, government officials, dignitaries, policymakers, and influential figures from the private sector and financial institutions, the event will serve as a critical platform for discussions and commitments towards peace financing.

What is the AU Peace Fund?

Initially established by the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1993, the AU Peace Fund has undergone substantial reforms to become a more effective tool for promoting peace and stability. 

A significant milestone was reached in June 2015 when the Heads of State made a pivotal decision in Johannesburg, South Africa, through Decision Assembly/AU/Dec.578 (XXV) on the Scale of Assessment and Alternative Sources of Financing the African Union. This decision laid the groundwork for the Peace Fund's revitalization in 2018, marking a notable transformation towards self-financing mechanisms

"The revitalized AU Peace Fund represents a major shift in how we approach funding for peace and security activities. By using a home-grown mechanism, we can ensure reliability, predictability, and sustainability," Ms. Moges emphasized.

Currently, the Peace Fund has a robust governance structure that ensures transparency and accountability. It has successfully raised over USD 402 million, exceeding its initial target of USD 400 million. However, to address the evolving and expanding peace and security challenges, further resources are required. The active involvement of the private sector, high-net-worth individuals, multilateral financial institutions, and corporations is essential to meeting these needs.

Why Stakeholder Involvement is Crucial?

"The active participation of the private sector and high-net-worth individuals is crucial. Their support will enable us to address the complex peace and security challenges facing our continent. Together, we can create a reliable and sustainable financing mechanism for peace in Africa," said  Ms. Moges.

By fostering long-term partnerships, the AU seeks to ensure that peacebuilding efforts are not only adequately funded but also supported by a broad coalition of committed entities.

The launch event will feature a series of keynote addresses, networking opportunities, and cultural performances. Attendees will have the chance to engage with Africa’s most influential leaders, discuss innovative peace financing mechanisms, and make financial commitments to support the Peace Fund’s initiatives.

Hosting this significant event in Accra underscores Ghana's pivotal role in promoting peace and security across the continent. As a champion for AU financial institutions, H.E. President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s leadership further highlights Accra’s political influence and deep-rooted commitment to Africa’s progress. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Accra is the ideal location for such a landmark gathering, showcasing the city's dedication to fostering peace and stability across Africa.

As Africa’s political and diplomatic elite gather in Accra for the AU Peace Fund event, it represents a remarkable step towards securing a peaceful and stable future for the continent. It is an opportunity to demonstrate solidarity, share innovative ideas, and commit to sustainable peace financing.

"This event will not only celebrate the progress made by the AU Peace Fund as part of the AU reforms but also galvanize further support and resources needed to address Africa’s peace and security challenges," Ms. Moges said.