Press Statement of the 568th PSC meeting on a briefing by the Panel of the Wise on its activities relating to conflict prevention in Africa -

The Peace and Security Council of the African Union (AU), at its 568thmeeting held on 18 January 2016, received a briefing by the Panel of the Wise on its activities relating to conflict prevention in Africa.

Council took note of the presentation made by a member of the Panel of the Wise, former Vice President of the Republic of Uganda, Dr. Speciosa Wandira-Kezibwe.

Council commended the important contribution that the Panel of the Wise plays, which contributes to the effectiveness of the PSC in discharging its mandate of promoting peace, security and stability in Africa, within the overall context of the African Peace and Security Architecture.

Council stressed the need for regular interactions between the Council and the Panel of the Wise, as well as for the Panel of the Wise to regularly submit its reports and conclusions of its retreats to the Council.

Council also stressed the need for the Panel of the Wise to keep the Council informed, including through horizon scanning, as part of early warning, with regard to peace and security situations on the continent, in order to enable the Council to take appropriate and timely decisions.

Council underscored the urgent need for enhancing the capacity of the Secretariat that supports the Panel of the Wise, including through the mobilization of additional human, material and financial resources with a view to ensuring that the Panel discharge its mandate more effectively.

Council looked forward to regular interactions with the Panel of the Wise.