The African Union (AU) has appointed Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye as its special envoy to the crisis-ridden Sahel region, in a strategic bid to revitalize peace efforts amid growing instability.
The announcement, made Thursday (17 July) by AU Chairperson João Lourenço, marks a significant diplomatic move as the region reels from military coups, jihadist insurgencies, and eroding public trust. Ndayishimiye’s mission will center on deepening dialogue with suspended states — Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger — while fostering collaboration with civil society and regional actors. His mandate also includes developing long-term strategies for peace and stability under the AU’s “Silencing the Guns” initiative.
Described by the AU as a leader with “impeccable credentials of resolute commitment to Pan-Africanism,” Ndayishimiye currently chairs COMESA and serves as the AU’s Champion for Youth, Peace, and Security. His appointment is viewed as both a reward for reintegrating Burundi into regional diplomacy and a recognition of his military background, which could resonate with the leaders of the Sahel States Alliance. Critically, his lack of prior involvement in the Sahel is seen as an asset, offering neutrality amid fractured alliances and waning AU influence. Diplomatic sources also cite discreet backing from French President Emmanuel Macron as a factor in his selection. Ndayishimiye is expected to begin immediate consultations to help reshape the AU’s engagement in one of Africa’s most volatile regions.