Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa has called for an immediate ceasefire in South Sudan and highlighted broader concerns regarding instability across the continent, addressing the African Union (AU) leaders’ summit in Addis Ababa on . The summit, focused on peace and security, comes amid a backdrop of renewed conflict and geopolitical competition in several African nations.
Ramaphosa urged rival factions in South Sudan to return to negotiations, warning that continued violence threatens regional destabilization and undermines development and humanitarian efforts. His intervention positions South Africa as a key diplomatic player in efforts to calm tensions within the country, according to statements released by the Presidency.
The South Sudanese conflict is not occurring in isolation. Ramaphosa also expressed concern over the wider instability in Sudan, alongside other crises across the continent. He noted that a number of African countries are currently under suspension due to unconstitutional changes of government, reversing democratic gains. The slow transition to constitutional order in these suspended nations is a “matter of concern,” he stated.
“As we meet here a number of African countries are currently under suspension due to unconstitutional change of government, reversing democratic gains and the development of our continent,” Ramaphosa said, according to a post on his official X account on .
The summit’s agenda is dominated by the need to end ongoing conflicts and address the worsening conditions of war and instability across Africa. South Africa, Ramaphosa affirmed, remains committed to the vision of a peaceful and prosperous continent. The country appreciates the report on the state of peace and security, but acknowledges the deteriorating situation.
Beyond the immediate crises in Sudan and South Sudan, the African Union summit is also grappling with intensifying geopolitical rivalry, particularly between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Both Gulf powers are vying for influence in the Horn of Africa – including Sudan, Ethiopia, and Eritrea – seeking strategic ports, security partnerships, and political leverage. Diplomats at the summit have warned that this competition risks exacerbating divisions and complicating African-led mediation efforts.
The rivalry adds another layer of complexity to a region already burdened by civil war, fragile political transitions, and humanitarian crises, making consensus at the summit more challenging to achieve. The potential for external actors to further entrench divisions within already volatile states is a significant concern for African leaders.
In a separate development announced during the summit, China pledged to introduce zero tariffs on imports from 53 African countries. This move, intended to strengthen trade ties and support African industrial growth, comes at a time when many African economies are facing economic pressure. The initiative represents a significant economic opportunity for the continent, but also underscores China’s growing economic influence in Africa.
Ramaphosa’s call for a ceasefire in South Sudan is part of a broader effort involving South Africa, other members of the C5 group (a coalition of countries working to resolve the conflict in South Sudan), and members of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). These actors are collaborating to consolidate peace efforts in South Sudan, aiming to prevent further escalation of violence and facilitate a return to negotiations.
The situation in South Sudan remains precarious. Despite previous peace agreements, sporadic outbreaks of violence continue to plague the country, displacing civilians and hindering humanitarian access. The underlying causes of the conflict – including ethnic tensions, competition for resources, and political grievances – remain largely unresolved.
The AU summit’s focus on peace and security reflects the urgent need for a coordinated response to the multifaceted challenges facing the continent. While the immediate priorities are to address ongoing conflicts and prevent further instability, long-term solutions require addressing the root causes of conflict, promoting good governance, and fostering inclusive economic development.
President Ramaphosa, who served as Chairperson of the African Union from to , brings significant experience to the discussions. His long-standing involvement in African politics and his role in mediating previous conflicts position him as a key figure in the ongoing efforts to promote peace and stability on the continent.
The outcome of the summit and the effectiveness of the proposed interventions in South Sudan and other conflict zones will be closely watched by the international community. The challenges are significant, but the commitment of African leaders to address these issues is a crucial step towards building a more peaceful and prosperous future for the continent.
