The United Nations Peace Building Commission (UN PBC) is undertaking peace building initiatives worth $350 million in four post-conflict African countries, UN officials said on Monday.
Officials of the UN commission and the AU Peace and Security Council officials discussed peacemaking efforts in the post-conflict countries in Addis Ababa.
Chilean ambassador to the UN and head of the commission, Heraldo Munzo, told journalists that Burundi, Sierra Leone, Guinea Bissau and Central Africa Rep. are the four countries that are currently benefiting from the initiatives under its Peacebuilding Fund.
Munzo indicated that out of the $350 million fund, so far, $162 million have been granted to these countries that are undertaking various projects.
The Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) is a new intergovernmental advisory body of the United Nations that supports peace efforts in countries emerging from conflict, and is a key addition to the capacity of the International Community in the broad peace agenda.
According to ambassador Munzo, the commission established in 2005, agreed with the African Union Commission to closely work on peacemaking efforts in the continent, mainly in countries emerging from conflicts.
It is the first time that the peace building commission is holding its discussion with the AU.
“We have agreed to work together and share experience on peace making efforts. It is the first step to exchange views,” said Munzo.
Eastus Mwencha, deputy Chairperson of the AU commission, on his part said that the two sides have agreed to strengthen their collaboration on the peacemaking efforts in the continent.
The UN PBC is the arm of the United Nations that has a mandate to support post-conflict peace building efforts, including initiatives for post-conflict reconstruction.
“We intend to share our experiences, it will not be limited to the four countries, but also all countries in the continent,” said AU Peace and Security Commissioner Ambassador Ramatane Lamamra.
Source African Press Agency
