African Union Discusses Sudan’s Recovery With Ambassador as Khartoum Visit Is Considered

The African Union Commission has held fresh discussions with Sudan’s ambassador to Ethiopia and permanent representative to the AU, Elzein Ibrahim Hussein, as the continental body continues its diplomatic engagement over the conflict and the country’s recovery.

In a statement published on Tuesday, the African Union said Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf received the Sudanese envoy for talks focusing on the situation in Sudan and the organization’s continued efforts to support peace, stability and recovery.

The discussions also covered possible cooperation in health and education, alongside broader social and economic recovery programmes. Youssouf reaffirmed the AU’s commitment to supporting Sudan as it works towards peace and stability, while the Sudanese ambassador expressed appreciation for the organization’s diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.

The two officials also discussed the possibility of a visit by the AU Commission Chairperson to Khartoum. No date for such a visit was announced.

The meeting comes as Sudan continues to face the consequences of the war between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, which began in April 2023. The conflict has caused widespread displacement, civilian suffering and damage to public infrastructure, while disrupting essential services across the country.

The AU has been working with regional and international partners to support efforts towards a ceasefire and an inclusive political process. In September, Youssouf joined a high-level meeting involving the African Union, the United States and other partners to coordinate efforts towards ending the conflict. He called for a humanitarian truce, protection of civilians and a Sudanese-led political process.

The organization has also been working to restore its presence in Sudan. Its plans to reopen the liaison office in Khartoum are intended to strengthen engagement with Sudanese stakeholders and support an inclusive political process.

For Sudan, the discussions extend beyond ending the fighting to the difficult task of rebuilding institutions, restoring public services and addressing the economic and social damage caused by the war. However, the latest meeting did not produce a new ceasefire agreement or announce a concrete recovery package.

The possibility of a visit to Khartoum would offer another opportunity for direct engagement, but the central challenge remains turning diplomatic discussions into progress towards an end to the conflict.