The Common African Position represents the resolve of Africa’s leaders to address the root causes and progressively reduce the phenomenon of forced displacement on the continent. It is our aspiration to address the long-term social economic transformation of the continent in line with Agenda 2063. However, it is our conviction that we cannot achieve such laudable goal and sustainable development on the continent without tackling the issues of forced displacement in a meaningful way.
Today, the African continent faces some of the most complex humanitarian emergencies globally. The emergencies are in some cases as a result of natural and human induced disasters but in very many others, are driven by conflicts leading to mass displacements of persons both within and across national borders. The combined effects of which makes the humanitarian situation subsisting on the continent more complex. This Common African Position, therefore, represents Africa’s appreciation and it’s understanding of the humanitarian landscape and the required intervention that is necessary for a sustainable response and resolution of such situations.
It is important to draw attention to the fact that one of the key appreciation of the humanitarian situation on the continent is that of the primary role of and responsibility of the State. In other words, Africa recognises that States have obligations to ensure an effective delivery, in all its ramifications, of humanitarian relief, protection and assistance.
Furthermore, our position on the continent today, is also to build the resilience of our States and communities to better withstand complex emergencies, both of sudden or slow onset in nature. This then means that States will now be prepared and in their responses, will not only build back better, but also ensure that appropriate coping mechanisms are in-built to prepare for future shocks that may affect communities. At the same time states should prepare to better appreciate the environment, including by mitigating the effects and consequences of climate change as it affects communities.
Finally, we on the continent of Africa also appreciate the very many competing needs for resources globally, not least of all in the area of humanitarian assistance. It is in this regard that our position commits us on the continent to increase the flow of resources to meet the demands of humanitarian intervention. Both governments and the private sector including high net worth individuals on the continent will be mobilised to better furnish the financial needs in the area of humanitarian work.
We can only assure that in forging the new global humanitarian architecture, that Africa stands to contribute its quota in the full realisation that there is a need for a more pragmatic and robust architecture that is fit for the 21st century’s purpose and challenges.
Read more at Common African Position (CAP) on Humanitarian Effectiveness