The Secretary General of the UN has urged leaders of African countries to heed his call for a global ceasefire. In his Africa day address on Monday, Antonio Guterres raised several issues plaguing the continent, urging its leaders to take action.
With regards to the coronavirus, Guterres says: “African countries, like everyone, everywhere, should also have quick, equal and affordable access to any eventual vaccine and treatment”.
These governments he says should also “use this moment to shape new policies that bolster health systems, improve social protection and pursue climate-friendly pathways.”
Recalling the African Union’s theme for 2020 “Silencing the Guns: Creating Conducive Conditions for Africa’s Development”, Guterres lauded armed groups in Cameroon, Sudan and South Sudan for declaring unilateral ceasefires in response to his initiative.
” I implore other armed movements and governments in Africa to do likewise” he appealed.
With about some 20 African nations set to hold elections this year, he said it is necessary for political actors to “engage in inclusive and sustained political dialogue to ease tensions around elections and uphold democratic practices.”
Antonio Guterres ended his statement by reaffirming his “total solidarity with the people and Governments of Africa in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and paving the way for recovery and a better future for all.”
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