Algeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and National Community Abroad, Ahmed Ataf, has issued a stark warning regarding the escalating threats facing the African continent. Speaking at the recent Africa-Europe summit in Angola, which focused on peace, security, and governance, Minister Ataf highlighted a series of critical challenges demanding immediate attention.
Ataf specifically pointed to the proliferation of terrorism in the Sahel region, which he described as the new global epicenter for this scourge following its decline elsewhere. He emphasized the devastating impact of terrorism on African nations and populations, lamenting what he perceives as a disconcerting silence from the international community. The minister also expressed deep concern over the resurgence of unconstitutional changes of government, noting that these are no longer isolated incidents but rather an entrenched reality hindering the return to desired constitutional order.
Foreign military interventions in Africa, according to Ataf, act as a structural factor that further complicates crises, prolongs their duration, and limits opportunities for peaceful resolutions. He also raised alarms about the waning continental diplomatic role and the declining international interest in African security and political issues, which he believes weakens the continent’s ability to address its priorities effectively.
In light of these multifaceted challenges, Ataf called for a re-prioritization of the Africa-Europe partnership in the realm of peace and security. He asserted that the immediate priority should be to reverse the international apathy towards peace and security issues in Africa, recognizing them as transnational challenges. He further stressed the need to revitalize African diplomatic efforts and reinforce the principle of African solutions to African problems, highlighting the potential for continental organizations to perform effectively when provided with the necessary support and space.
The Minister of State underscored the importance of tangible investment in development as a fundamental means of preventing crises and addressing their root causes. He recalled Europe’s investment commitments to Africa under the Global Gateway initiative. Ataf concluded by emphasizing that ending Africa’s marginalization in international decision-making is a structural priority to ensure the continent’s objectives are achieved according to Africa’s Agenda 2063, thus bolstering its political, security, and economic standing on the global stage. This requires a renewed commitment from both African and international partners to address the underlying issues fueling instability and promote sustainable development across the continent.
