29. Enhancing Conflict Resolution in Africa

The African continent faces four categories of conflicts that are closely interconnected and ought to be analyzed concomitantly, with a back-and-forth sequencing in order to distinguish the diverse parameters of the specific impacts of the conflicts within a broader historical and contextual perspective. These four categories of conflict are: armed conflicts that are largely between the state and armed groups; sectarian violence (ethnic or religious) led by militia or organized armed groups; political violence advanced by the state against the population, especially through the use of the security forces; and lastly, low-key communal conflicts. These categories of conflicts in Africa are not mutually exclusive and tend to be generated at different levels. Hence, advancement of conflict resolution in Africa ought to take into account the complexities of the conflicts and the extent to which they have impacted the stability of a state. The discussion in this chapter will draw on diverse conflict intervention mechanisms by different actors, mainly: the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) under the African Union; regional intergovernmental bodies; civil society organizations (CSOs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs) as well are religious institutions have played an important role in conflict resolution in Africa. Peace and stability in Africa can only be attained through effective and efficient conflict resolution mechanisms, economic and political strategies that are inclusive and focused on improved living conditions of the majority of the population.