Lesotho Participates in AU Defence, Safety and Security Meeting

Lesotho took part in the 17th AU Specialized Technical Committee on Defence, Safety and Security held from 8 to 9 December in Addis Ababa. Senior experts represented the country under the leadership of Principal Secretary Mabataung Khalane. They joined other Member States in reviewing progress on key AU peace and security priorities.

The meeting assessed the AU’s work on Silencing the Guns, peace support operations and the strengthening of the Peace Fund. These areas remain central to Africa’s efforts to prevent conflict, respond to crises and build stable institutions.

The experts produced a draft report that now moves to the Chiefs of Defence Staff Meeting on 10 December and the Defence Ministers Meeting on 11 December. These meetings will refine the recommendations and guide the next steps for implementation across Member States.

Lesotho reaffirmed its commitment to African driven security efforts. The country continues to support regional stability and cooperative action. This comes as Lesotho prepares to rejoin the AU Peace and Security Council in 2026. The return to the PSC will allow the country to contribute more directly to continental decisions on conflict prevention, crisis response and long term peacebuilding.

The engagement in Addis Ababa reflects Lesotho’s position that collective action is essential for a safer and more secure continent. The country intends to remain an active participant in initiatives that strengthen peace, stability and cooperation across Africa.