annakapambwe

I teach African politics and international relations @smithcollege. This is my second attempt at Twitter.

[annakapambwe @annakapambwe]

Thank you to @JSAS_Editors for the opportunity to share my research on African agency & election assistance/observation and to the anonymous reviewers for their critical & constructive feedback!

[Journal of Southern African Studies @JSAS_Editors]

Anna Kapambwe Mwaba examines the African Union's growing role in election assistance & observation. Focusing on elections in #Malawi, Mwaba assesses the AU’s ability to undertake these efforts & how it deals with the politics surrounding them. https://t.co/QithkHbB1m

[African Union Political Affairs Peace and Security @AUC_PAPS]

The @AUC_PAPS is currently conducting, from 14 to 17 July 2026, a training programme in the Democratic Republic of #SãoToméandPríncipe 🇸🇹, bringing together more than 100 media professionals and civil society organizations to strengthen their role in consolidating democracy and the rule of law, and to promote credible and acceptable elections ahead of the 2026 presidential election.

#Democracy #RuleOfLaw #Media #CivilSociety #ElectionIntegrity #Elections

[African Union Mission to the UN @AfricanUnionUN]

The Permanent Representatives (PR) of African States to the @UN convened for their 2026 annual retreat on March 29-30, in New York, on the theme : "Consolidating African Agency in the UN System: Challenges and Opportunities."

The retreat served as a crucial platform for dialogue and collaboration within the #UN System and on the international stage , while also exploring opportunities for enhanced representation, to strengthen Africa's voice on global issues and foster sustainable development across the continent.

The #PRs were honored with the presence of the #UNSG, H. E Antonio Guterres, #DSG , H.E Amina Mohammed and other UN high officials.
The fruitful exchanges during the retreat concluded with a strong commitment for a united front to enhance the #AU-#UN cooperation.
#Agenda2063 #UNReform #Agenda2030

[Amani Africa @africa_amani]

Beyond Communiqués: Charting the path for making the PSC fit to restore AU's agency in peace & security
https://t.co/3bTJyWLP3B

[Amani Africa @africa_amani]

📢BREAKING: Here is the official announcement from the AU that the motion for endorsing Macky Sall did not receive support in the @_AfricanUnion. In less than 24 hrs (almost unprecedented tight timeline for silence procedure), 20 states including #Senegal from almost all regions broke the silence procedure depositing their objection, thereby rejecting the draft decision.

[SABC News @SABCNews]

WATCH | President Cyril Ramaphosa says it should not be a surprise if they don't attend the upcoming G7 summit in France, as they are not a member.

[News24 🇿🇦 @News24]

BREAKING | France withdraws Ramaphosa’s invitation to G7 summit due to US pressure

https://t.co/NT9zryQP3W

[Ghana Presidency @GhanaPresidency]

"Let it be recorded that when history beckoned, we did what was right for the memory of the millions who suffered the indignity of slavery.
Let our vote on this resolution restore their dignity and humanity." - President John Dramani Mahama

#RememberingSlavery

[Al Jazeera English @AJEnglish]

Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti has become the first African artist to receive a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, honoured posthumously in Los Angeles for his music and political resistance.

[Al Jazeera English @AJEnglish]

Uganda has once again shut down the internet just before the elections. Ugandan activist Agather Atuhaire explains how staying connected is getting harder each election cycle.

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

Communiqué on the Situation in #Venezuela.

The African Union is following with grave concern the recent developments in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, including reports of the abduction of the President of the Republic, Mr. Nicolás Maduro, and military attacks on Venezuelan institutions.

The African Union reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the fundamental principles of international law, including respect for the sovereignty of States, their territorial integrity, and the right of peoples to self-determination, as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations.

The African Union underscores the importance of dialogue, peaceful settlement of disputes, and respect for constitutional and institutional frameworks, in a spirit of good neighbourliness, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence among nations.

The African Union emphasizes that the complex internal challenges facing Venezuela can only be sustainably addressed through inclusive political dialogue among Venezuelans themselves.

The African Union expresses its solidarity with the Venezuelan people and reiterates its commitment to the promotion of peace, stability, and mutual respect among nations and regions.

The African Union calls upon all parties concerned to exercise restraint, responsibility, and respect for international law to prevent any escalation and to preserve regional peace and stability.

Read @ https://t.co/DW9aHzKyjx

[South African Government @GovernmentZA]

South Africa Urges UN Security Council Session Following Unilateral Military Action in Venezuela.

#GovZAUpdates

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

Chairperson of the AU Commission (AUC) strongly condemns deadly drone attack on peacekeeping base in Kadugli, #Sudan.

The Chairperson @ymahmoudali of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, strongly condemns the deadly drone attack targeting the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) logistics peacekeeping base in Kadugli, Sudan, which resulted in the loss of lives and injuries among Bangladeshi peacekeeping personnel. This reprehensible act constitutes a grave violation of international humanitarian law and an attack on efforts to promote peace and stability in Sudan.

The AUC Chairperson extends sincere condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wishes a speedy recovery to the injured. The African Union expresses its full solidarity with the affected peacekeeping personnel and their contributing countries.

The AUC Chairperson underscores that attacks against peacekeepers are unacceptable and undermine regional and international peace and security. Such acts will not deter the African Union and its partners from their commitment to supporting peace operations and protecting civilians.

The AUC Chairperson calls for those responsible for this attack to be swiftly identified and held accountable and urges all parties to the conflict to respect their obligations under international law, including the protection of peacekeepers and humanitarian personnel.

The African Union remains steadfast in its commitment to peace, security, and stability in Sudan and reiterates its support for efforts aimed at achieving a lasting and inclusive political solution to the conflict.

Read @ https://t.co/nW5QCrbVAs

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission Strongly Condemns the Attempted Military Coup in the Republic of #Benin - 7 December 2025.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Yousouf, strongly and unequivocally condemns the military coup attempt that occurred on 7 December 2025 in the Republic of Benin. The Chairperson stresses that any form of military interference in political processes constitutes a grave violation of the fundamental principles and values of the African Union.

The Chairperson recalls the AU’s normative frameworks on Unconstitutional Changes of Government (UCGs), including the AU Constitutive Act (2000), the Lomé Declaration (2000), the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (2007), and the Ezulwini Framework (2009), all of which categorically reject military encroachment in governance and affirm the primacy of constitutional order and democratic legitimacy as pillars of peace and stability on the continent.

The Chairperson calls on all actors involved in the coup attempt to immediately cease all unlawful actions, to fully respect the Constitution of Benin, and to return without delay to their legitimate barracks and professional obligations. He encourages all national stakeholders to prioritize unity, dialogue, and the preservation of national peace.

The Chairperson expresses deep concern over the troubling proliferation of military coups and coup attempts across parts of the region, noting with regret that such actions continue to undermine continental stability, threaten democratic gains, and embolden military actors to act outside constitutional mandates. He warns that these trends erode citizens’ trust in public institutions, weaken state authority, and endanger collective security.

The Chairperson reiterates the African Union’s zero tolerance stance toward any unconstitutional change of government, regardless of context or justification. He underscores that the AU remains firm and consistent in defending democratic governance, the rule of law, and the sovereign will of the African people.

The Chairperson further reaffirms the African Union’s support to H.E. President Patrice Talon, the legitimate authorities of the Republic of Benin, and the People of Benin, who continue to demonstrate their commitment to democracy, peace, and institutional stability. The African Union stands ready, in coordination with regional and international partners, to accompany the Government and People of Benin toward the full restoration of constitutional normalcy and the strengthening of democratic institutions.

Read @ https://t.co/m3bK1vHfN9

[Ecowas - Cedeao @ecowas_cedeao]

URGENT ECOWAS STATEMENT N°2 ON BÉNIN.

The Chair of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of state and Government has ordered the deployment of elements of the ECOWAS Standby Force to the Republic of Benin with immediate effect

07 December 2025.

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

Chairperson of the African Union Commission on the reported attack on civilians in Kalogi, South Kordofan, #Sudan.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, condemns in the strongest possible terms the horrific reported attacks in Kalogi, South Kordofan, in which more than 100 civilians, including dozens of women and children in a pre-school, who were reportedly killed. The deliberate targeting of children, educators, medical personnel, and civilians seeking to assist the wounded, as reported in media accounts, represents a flagrant violation of international humanitarian and human rights law.

The Chairperson is appalled by the repeated and escalating atrocities committed against civilians in the region and deeply concerned by reports of continued aerial bombardment, drone attacks, and assaults on vital civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and schools.

He calls for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire by all parties to halt the bloodshed, as well as the full protection of civilians — particularly children, women, and the elderly — in line with international law. He further urges unhindered humanitarian access to enable lifesaving assistance to reach affected communities, and stresses the need for accountability for all violations, calling for independent investigations to ensure that those responsible for these heinous acts are brought to justice.

The African Union stands in solidarity with the people of Sudan and reiterates its commitment to working with regional and international partners to prevent further atrocities and support a return to dialogue, peace, and stability.

Read @ https://t.co/npoInrxoyO

[Mwangi @MwangiMaina_]

A rare but necessary example of African governments calling out one of their own.

The unwritten continental diplomatic rule has longer been “non-interference first, solidarity second.”

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

Press Statement on the Peace Agreement Signed Today Between the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Rwanda.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, welcomed the peace agreement signed today by H.E. President Paul Kagame of the Republic of Rwanda and H.E. President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo. He describes this development as a significant milestone in the pursuit of lasting peace, security, and stability in the Great Lakes region.

The Chairperson acknowledged and appreciates the constructive support provided by the United States, including the personal engagement of President Donald Trump, whose commitment helped create conditions conducive to this outcome. He also commends the State of Qatar for its diplomatic backing and support, for its and its readiness to support African-led peace initiatives.

The Chairperson, who joined other African Heads of State in witnessing this historic signing in Washington DC, USA, commends the decisive and sustained leadership that made this agreement possible. He pays special tribute to H.E. President Faure Gnassingbé of Togo for his ongoing facilitation, H.E. President João Lourenço of Angola for his earlier mediation efforts, and the complementary roles played by leaders of the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) throughout the process.

H.E. Mr. Youssouf calls on all parties to faithfully implement the agreement in both letter and spirit, ensuring that this moment becomes a foundation for reconciliation, regional cooperation, and sustainable peace.

The African Union Commission stands ready to accompany the parties and regional mechanisms in advancing this vital process for the benefit of the peoples of the DRC, Rwanda, and the wider region.

Read @ https://t.co/pQTKIgRZO9

[Chrispin Phiri 🇿🇦 @Chrispin_JPhiri]

ATTENTION: ALL NEWSROOMS AND EDITORS

WEDNESDAY 26, NOVEMBER 2025

PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA NOTES US STATEMENT ON SOUTH AFRICA’S G20 PARTICIPATION*

President Cyril Ramaphosa has noted the regrettable statement by President Donald Trump on South Africa’s participation in the 2026 G20 meetings.

The G20 South Africa 2025 Leaders Summit was hailed by all members who attended as one of the most successful summits.

The summit produced a declaration that affirmed the indisputable strength and value of multilateralism in response to the most pressing challenges facing the world.

As the United States was not present at the summit, instruments of the G20 Presidency were duly handover to a US Embassy official at the Headquarters of South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

As a founding member, South Africa has always valued the spirit of consensus, collaboration and partnership that defines the G20 as the premier forum for international economic cooperation.

In keeping with this approach, the United States was expected to participate in all meetings of the G20 during South Africa’s Presidency and elected not to attend the G20 Leaders Summit in Johannesburg out of its own volition.

South Africa is a member of the G20 in its own name and right. It’s G20 membership is at the behest of all other members.

South Africa is a sovereign constitutional democratic country and does not appreciate insults from another country about its worth in participating in global platforms. South Africa will never insult another country or its standing in the community of nations.

US entities such businesses and civil society organisations participated in large numbers in G20 related activities such as the B20 and the G20 Social. South Africa values their participation.

South Africa will continue to participate as a full, active and constructive member of the G20. We call on members of the G20 to reaffirm its continued operation in the spirit of multilateralism, based on consensus, with all members participating on an equal footing in all of its structures.

It is regrettable that despite the efforts and numerous attempts by President Ramaphosa and his administration to reset the diplomatic relationship with the US, President Trump continues to apply punitive measures against South Africa based on misinformation and distortions about our country.

For media enquiries:
Vincent Magwenya
Spokesperson to the President

ISSUED BY THE PRESIDENCY OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA*

https://t.co/jliAThCNLp

Pretoria

[Ecowas - Cedeao @ecowas_cedeao]

DÉCLARATION CONJOINTE DES CHEFS DE MISSIONS ÉLECTORALES DE LA CÉDÉAO, DE L'UNION AFRICAINE ET DU FORUM OUEST-AFRICAIN DES SAGES AU SUJET DE LA SITUATION POST- ELECTORALE EN REPUBLIQUE DE GUINÉE-BISSAU.

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

AFRICAN UNION COMMISSION CHAIRPERSON UNEQUIVOCALLY CONDEMNS THE MILITARY COUP D’ETAT IN GUINEA BISSAU

Addis Ababa, 26 November 2025 : The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, unequivocally condemns the military coup d’État that took place in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau on 26 November 2025, resulting in the arrest of President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, senior officials, and political leaders, at a moment when the nation was on the verge of the announcement of its electoral results.

The Chairperson reiterates the African Union’s zero tolerance for, and firm rejection of, any unconstitutional change of government, in accordance with the Union’s core normative instruments, including the Constitutive Act of the African Union (2000), the Lomé Declaration on Unconstitutional Changes of Government (2000), the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (2007), and the Ezulwini Framework (2009).

The Chairperson takes note of the Joint Statement on the Post-Election Situation issued on 26 November 2025 by the Heads of the African Union Election Observation Mission, the ECOWAS Election Observation Mission, and the West African Elders Forum.

The Chairperson stresses the imperative of respecting the ongoing electoral process and upholding constitutional order, in line with the mandate of the National Electoral Commission (CNE), the sole institution legally empowered to proclaim official election results in the country.

He calls for the immediate and unconditional release of President Embaló and all detained officials, and urges all parties to exercise the utmost restraint in order to prevent any further deterioration of the situation.

He reaffirms the African Union’s readiness, working in close coordination with ECOWAS and other key international partners, to support all efforts aimed at restoring stability and safeguarding democratic processes through dialogue and legally grounded mechanisms.

Finally, the Chairperson reiterates the African Union’s steadfast support and solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau during this critical period, and its commitment to accompanying them on the path toward peace, stability, and democratic consolidation.

https://t.co/0s4CKvwcga