The Chairperson of the African Union and President of Angola, João Lourenço, has appointed his Burundian counterpart, Évariste Ndayishimiye, as his Special Envoy for the Sahel region.

In a statement on the African Union's official page, President Lourenço expressed gratitude to Ndayishimiye for accepting the role.

"The Chairperson of the African Union is most grateful to H.E President Évariste Ndayishimiye for accepting this strategic political assignment in the collective interest of the Union," read the statement.

President Ndayishimiye, who also serves as the African Union Champion for Youth, Peace and Security the will spearhead the renewed African Union’s high-level diplomatic support and collaborative efforts aimed at addressing the prevailing security and humanitarian challenges in the Sahel.

"The Special Envoy’s mandate covers intensifying engagements with the governmental authorities, opinion leaders, regional actors and organizations, civil society and all relevant stakeholders to foster dialogue, build consensus, and promote comprehensive strategies towards durable peace and stability within the Sahel region," continues the statement.

The Angolan President said his counterpart has impeccable credentials that make him fit for the role.

"President Ndayishimiye brings with him very rich political experience, and impeccable credentials of resolute commitment to Pan-Africanism, regional integration and cooperation," said Lourenço.

"The appointment reflects the African Union’s steadfast commitment to supporting peacebuilding and regional cooperation in one of Africa’s most critical regions."

The AU chairperson expressed full confidence in President Ndayishimiye’s ability to advance the Union’s vision through his distinguished leadership and deep understanding of the continent’s complex dynamics.

In effect, this appointment is meant to foster the African Union’s drive to permanently silence the guns and promote peace, security, stability, and political dialogue in the Sahel region.

"The Chairperson of the African Union, therefore, calls on the AU Commission, the AU Mission in the Sahel (MISAHEL); all stakeholders and the international community to extend support to the Special Envoy, who is expected to immediately commence his engagements in the region."