Lamola urges end to Africa’s ‘escalating’ conflicts
International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola has urged the de-escalation of African wars, which he says are hindering the continent's development.
"These conflicts have caused millions of deaths and displacement of refugees, human rights violations, and infrastructure destruction," said Lamola.
"According to the United Nations Women, in 2023, over 170 armed conflicts were recorded, and approximately 612 million women and girls lived within 50 kilometres of these conflicts."
Lamola spoke at a Solidarity Conference on Women, Peace and Security, “Voices of Women within a Global Environment of Escalating Conflict,” in Pretoria on Friday.
READ: SANDF says DRC troop withdrawal political move for peace
He said escalating conflict in South Sudan, Sudan, and the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo remain critical elements on the continent’s security agenda.
He made the remarks as Parliament's Joint Standing Committee on Defence met on Friday to discuss the withdrawal of the SANDF from the DRC.
"We call for de-escalation and restraints," Lamola said.
"All efforts should be taken to protect civilians and civilians’ infrastructure, while ensuring that there are concerted efforts from both parties to negotiate a peaceful settlement to the rising conflict."
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