ABUJA – The African Union Commission (AUC) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting dialogue and tolerance as key tools for preventing and resolving conflicts across the continent.
The AUC Deputy Chairperson, Selma Haddadi, disclosed this at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the commission and the King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz International Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue.
She said the agreement underscored a shared vision that interreligious and intercultural dialogue remained essential to conflict prevention, social cohesion, and the building of inclusive societies.
Haddadi noted that in a global environment characterised by rising tensions and fragmentation, the partnership highlighted the need for collective action to promote mutual understanding, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.
She added that the initiative aligned with Agenda 2063, particularly its aspiration for a peaceful and secure Africa.
According to her, the MoU will strengthen engagement among governments, civil society, faith-based organisations, the private sector, and citizens in fostering sustainable peace.
She said it would also empower youth and women as central actors in dialogue, mediation, and community resilience, while translating policy commitments into practical programmes through capacity building and knowledge exchange.
Haddadi explained that the partnership would provide a structured platform to scale collaboration through relevant AU organs, including the Economic, Social and Cultural Council.
She recalled that cooperation between the AU and KAICIID dates back to 2016 and was formalised in 2019, focusing on mediation, interreligious dialogue, and conflict prevention initiatives.
She emphasised the need for sustained collective efforts to ensure the partnership delivers tangible results, strengthens trust across communities, and contributes to lasting peace on the continent.
Haddadi expressed appreciation to KAICIID and other stakeholders for their continued support, describing the MoU as a platform for action anchored on shared values and mutual respect. (NAN)
