AU-led lessons learned report on the Pretoria peace process launched at AU HQ

Addis Ababa, February 16, 2025 (FMC) — African Union-led Lessons Learned Report on the Pretoria Peace Process was launched this evening in the presence of Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, Minister of Peace Mohammed Edris , AU Commissioner Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat, Members of the AU-High Level Panel, the President of the Interim Regional Administration of Tigray, Getachew Reda and the Chairperson of the TPLF, Debretsion Gebremichael, among others.

In his opening remarks, Foreign Minister Gedion expressed his gratitude to the governments of South Africa, Kenya and Nigeria for supporting the peace Process. He also thanked the African Union for playing a pivotal role in bringing to fruition this Ethiopia owned AU-led peace process.

Citing the relatively comprehensive nature of the Pretoria Peace Agreement, Dr. Gedion emphasized the fact that lasting legacy of both Parties should be to ensure local ownership of the process and the futility of belligerence in the efforts towards effecting a lasting peace in the region.

He told the participants, the unequivocal commitment of the Government of Ethiopia cannot and should not be questioned.

The Federal Goverment has hitherto deployed substantial resources to ensure the full implementation of the agreement and bring about sustainable peace and normalcy to Tigray region.

AU High Representative for the Horn of Africa, and former President of Nigeria, Oluṣẹgun Ọbasanjọ, addressing the gathering commended both Parties for demonstrating astute leadership and exceptional dedication to a peace process that is widely regarded as a significant milestone.

He said, African ownership of the process is a testament to the capacity of Africans to contribute to a peaceful and stable Africa and offers valuable insights and experiences worth emulating elsewhere on the continent.

Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS) of the African Union, Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, on the occassion made a brief presentation on the 11 Key Lessons Learned from the peace process.

He underscored the fact that the agreement is a crucial tool for restoring peace and stability while effectively playing pivotal role in Silencing the Guns and building rapport among the Parties thereby demonstrating the practicality and sustainablity of peace agreements.