Security Council underscores Central Africa’s potential to contribute to stability

Central Africa, despite its enormous potential, has yet to achieve the stability that would enable it to maximize its contribution to the continent as a whole, the United Nations Security Council said today, urging efforts to bolster the region’s capability.

In a statement read out at a formal meeting, Council President Martin Belinga-Eboutou of Cameroon affirmed the need to strengthen the partnership between the UN and Central African States in relation to the maintenance of peace and security, emphasizing that the capacities of these countries should be strengthened towards this end.

“The Security Council observes that the inadequacy of institutional and human capacities, particularly those directed towards the integration process, has hindered the social, economic and political integration in Central Africa,” he said, voicing appreciation for the renewed commitment by the World Bank and the UN Development Programme (UNDP) to assist post-conflict operations in Central Africa and encouraging them to closely coordinate their efforts.

Noting the efforts made by Central African States, both on their own initiative and with the support of the international community, the Council commended progress made by certain nations of the region with regard to the promotion of democracy, the protection of human rights and sustainable development.

The Council welcomed the decision by Central Africa leaders to accord priority to developing sufficient capacities to ensure peace, security and stability and to promote the integration of Central Africa.

Council members also hailed subregional efforts to promote conflict resolution, and welcomed the conclusion of a Protocol establishing the Council for Peace and Security in Central Africa, which has three main structures – the Central African Early Warning System, the Defence and Security Commission and the Central African Multinational Force. All countries were urged to support the operationalization of these bodies.

The President also stressed the urgency of solving the problem of refugees and internally displaced persons in Central Africa, and the importance of “a comprehensive, integrated, resolute and concerted approach to the issues of peace, security and development,” in the area.

Five out of the 12 current UN missions in Africa are in the central region, while 6 of the 16 envoys of the Secretary-General are also serving there, according to the statement.