BRUSSELS – Eswatini’s Foreign Minister, Senator Pholile Shakantu, has called for greater recognition of Africa’s cultural diversity in global peace and governance structures, during her address at the 3rd African Union-European Union Ministerial Meeting held in Brussels, Belgium.
Speaking on behalf of the Kingdom of Eswatini, Shakantu said the country, which recently joined the African Union Peace and Security Council, remains committed to advancing peace and stability across the continent.
She described Eswatini as one of Africa’s most peaceful nations, rooted in a culture of harmony and dialogue. “Our governance system reflects our identity as Emaswati and draws from both our pre-colonial sovereignty and post-colonial experiences,” she said, noting that the country had redefined its political trajectory since independence to preserve its traditional values.
The meeting brought together African and European foreign ministers to discuss shared challenges and strategies for peace. Shakantu used the platform to urge global stakeholders to avoid imposing uniform governance models on African states, stating that doing so risks undermining the continent’s unique traditions and political heritage.
She stressed that many of Africa’s ongoing conflicts are rooted in unresolved colonial legacies, which continue to impact communities differently. “Some have accepted these legacies, but for others, history remains a deeply embedded burden,” she told the gathering.
According to the minister, peacebuilding efforts must involve meaningful engagement with affected communities and a genuine understanding of their histories to achieve lasting solutions.
Shakantu also reiterated Eswatini’s support for the Ezulwini Consensus — a 2005 African Union resolution adopted in Eswatini that calls for equitable African representation on the United Nations Security Council. “Africa must have a seat at the table where global decisions are made,” she said.
She further called for increased participation of women and youth in formal peace processes and post-conflict reconstruction, noting that these groups play a vital role in community transformation.
As Eswatini takes up its new role on the AU Peace and Security Council, Shakantu pledged the country’s commitment to principles of respect, understanding, and collaboration in addressing Africa’s complex peace and security landscape.
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