Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi has launched the African Union’s Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development Month, calling for stronger financial support and practical projects to help communities affected by conflict. The initiative began on Sunday, 1 November, and will continue throughout the month. It marks the sixth annual commemoration and coincides with the twentieth anniversary of the African Union’s reconstruction policy.
The programme is intended to strengthen the connection between peace, security and economic development across Africa. El-Sisi said that rebuilding societies after conflict requires more than humanitarian assistance. Countries emerging from instability also need functioning institutions, economic opportunities, stronger infrastructure and public services that can improve people’s daily lives.
The annual observance has previously been organised over a shorter period, but this year’s programme will run for an entire month. The extended schedule is intended to provide more opportunities for discussion, cooperation and the development of practical initiatives. The theme focuses on moving from policy commitments towards implementation and measurable results.
El-Sisi called on the African Union Commission and the Cairo-based African Union Centre for Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development to expand their support for national institutions. He also urged international partners to provide additional funding for projects that can deliver direct benefits to affected communities.
The Egyptian president highlighted the importance of involving women, young people and private businesses in reconstruction efforts. These groups can contribute to employment, education, investment and local economic recovery. Private companies, in particular, can support infrastructure development, increase production and create jobs in areas where economic opportunities have been limited by conflict.
The African Union centre was established in Cairo in 2021, following an agreement signed during the first Aswan Forum in 2019. It is intended to help countries strengthen their ability to prevent renewed conflict and rebuild institutions after periods of instability.
Egypt has also reaffirmed its commitment to the wider reconstruction agenda through the Aswan Forum for Sustainable Peace and Development, which is scheduled to take place later in November. The forum will provide another opportunity to discuss cooperation between governments, regional organisations and development partners.
The initiative highlights the growing recognition that lasting peace requires economic and social progress. Its success will depend on whether the commitments announced during the month lead to sufficient funding and practical improvements for communities across the continent.
