Pretoria: South Africa has been elected to serve a two-year term on the African Union’s (AU) Peace and Security Council. AU member states elected South Africa to the council during the 38th Ordinary Session of the AU’s Executive Council.

According to South African Government News Agency, South Africa was elected alongside Lesotho to represent Southern Africa on the council. On the election, Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Minister Ronald Lamola stated that achieving the goals of Agenda 2063 requires increased efforts in peace making and peacebuilding across the continent.

South Africa is set to begin its term on the council from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2028. The Republic of South Africa expressed gratitude to the AU Member States for their confidence and reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate constructively with the AUPSC to address the continent’s peace and security challenges. The country highlighted ongoing issues such as unconstitutional changes of government and the persistence of terrorism and violent extremism.

DIRCO emphasized that South Africa’s role on the PSC will be influenced by its foreign policy, which prioritizes peace, stability, and development within Africa. The nation reiterated its dedication to fostering a peaceful and prosperous continent that upholds pan-African ideals. This commitment is evident through South Africa’s participation in various peace and security initiatives, including its role as interim Chair of the Southern African Development Community.

South Africa plans to advocate for peaceful conflict resolution and inclusive dialogue, aiming to support conflicting parties in finding sustainable solutions.