The Executive Secretary of the African Union's Reconstruction and Development Center, Libakiso Matleho, has stated that the center is working to support peace and stability efforts in Africa. Matleho made the comments during an interview with Egyptian media outlet Al-Qahera News. The center was established in Cairo in 2023 and operates under the African Union's Peace and Security Commission. Its primary goal is to activate reconstruction and development policies in post-conflict situations.
Matleho emphasized that addressing conflicts requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond the immediate aftermath of a conflict. She noted that the center's work involves collaborating with African governments, development partners, and stakeholders to support peacebuilding and reconstruction efforts in countries affected by conflicts. The center's approach focuses on engaging local authorities and stakeholders in assessing needs and defining interventions.
The African Reconstruction Center has implemented several projects in various African countries. In 2025, the center completed a project in Liberia's capital, Monrovia, which involved building and rehabilitating a public school. The project aimed to improve access to education and promote community development. Matleho highlighted that the center's projects are designed to have a rapid impact and achieve tangible results on the ground.
In 2026, the center implemented projects in the Central African Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique, and South Sudan. These projects involved rehabilitating schools and public health centers, as well as providing necessary supplies. Matleho stressed that the destruction of infrastructure during conflicts limits communities' access to essential services, making the rehabilitation of educational and health facilities a top priority.
Matleho emphasized the importance of empowering young people and women and promoting their participation in peacebuilding efforts. She noted that achieving social and economic stability requires continuous coordination among stakeholders, including governments, local authorities, and international partners. The center's work focuses on promoting local ownership of projects and integrating African and international efforts.
The African Reconstruction Center's efforts aim to support sustainable peace and stability in Africa. Matleho highlighted that the center's projects are designed to be sustainable and have a lasting impact on communities. The center's work is critical in supporting countries affected by conflicts and promoting regional stability.
The center's work was discussed at the recent Scientific Conference in Egypt, which brought together stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities for peace and stability in Africa. Matleho's comments highlight the center's commitment to supporting peace and stability efforts in Africa and promoting sustainable development.
Key points
- The African Union's Reconstruction and Development Center is working to support peace and stability efforts in Africa.
- The center has implemented several projects in various African countries, including Liberia, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan.
- Empowering young people and women is critical to promoting peace and stability in Africa.
