MICHAEL: Africa has a role triggering truce in Middle East

The Middle East is often seen as a region fraught with complex geopolitical tensions, ethnic conflicts, and deep-rooted historical grievances. 

While African nations may not be the primary actors in Middle Eastern affairs, they possess unique opportunities to foster dialogue, encourage peacebuilding initiatives, and facilitate a truce in the region. 

Here are several ways Africa can play a constructive role in this context.

Africa and the Middle East share historical and cultural ties that can be leveraged to foster understanding and cooperation. 

Many African nations have historically supported Palestinian self-determination and have been vocal against colonialism and imperialism, drawing parallels to their own struggles. 

By utilising platforms such as the African Union (AU) and the Arab League, African states can advocate for peace initiatives that resonate with both African and Middle Eastern audiences, promoting a narrative of mutual respect and solidarity.

The African Union has a long history of mediating conflicts and promoting peace on the continent. By expanding its mandate to include mediation efforts in the Middle East, the AU can serve as an impartial facilitator. Collaborations with Middle Eastern organisations, such as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Arab League, can create a platform for dialogue. 

Joint peace conferences involving African and Middle Eastern leaders could help bridge gaps, share experiences, and build trust.

Economic interdependence can significantly contribute to peacebuilding efforts. 

African nations can explore trade agreements and economic partnerships with Middle Eastern countries, emphasizing mutual benefits. 

For instance, collaborative projects in sectors like agriculture, technology, and renewable energy can create jobs and foster interdependence, making conflicts less likely. Economic cooperation can also provide funding for development initiatives that address the root causes of conflict, such as poverty and unemployment.

Peace must also come from the ground up. African countries can support grassroots movements in the Middle East that promote peace and coexistence. 

Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and civil society groups can work together to foster dialogue between different ethnic and religious communities. 

African experiences in conflict resolution, such as the reconciliation processes in post-apartheid South Africa, can be shared as models for grassroots peacebuilding in the Middle East.

Cultural exchanges can play a vital role in building bridges between Africa and the Middle East. 

Through art, music, and literature, African nations can engage with Middle Eastern societies, highlighting shared values and cultural heritage. 

Initiatives such as joint festivals, exchange programmes, and educational collaborations can create a deeper understanding and respect between peoples. Soft power can thus complement political efforts, creating an environment conducive to dialogue and peace.

Humanitarian aid

The humanitarian crises in the Middle East, including the ongoing refugee situation, demand urgent attention.

African nations can collaborate with international organisations to provide humanitarian aid and support to affected populations. 

By participating in these efforts, African countries can demonstrate solidarity and compassion, fostering goodwill and potentially opening doors for diplomatic engagement. Humanitarian initiatives can also provide a neutral ground for dialogue, helping to build trust among conflicting parties.

In a world that is increasingly interconnected, Africa can advocate for a multilateral approach to resolving Middle Eastern conflicts. 

Engaging global powers like the the US, China, and Russia, along with regional stakeholders, can help in crafting comprehensive solutions that take into account the diverse interests of all parties involved.

African nations can position themselves as mediators in international forums, pushing for inclusive discussions that prioritize peace and stability.

Education is a powerful tool for peacebuilding. African countries can support educational programmes in the Middle East that promote tolerance, coexistence, and conflict resolution. Initiatives that involve collaborative research and academic exchanges can create a new generation of leaders who are equipped to address conflicts constructively. 

Furthermore, education can challenge extremist ideologies by promoting critical thinking and understanding.

While Africa may not be a direct actor in Middle Eastern politics, its strategic position, historical connections, and rich experiences in conflict resolution place it in a unique position to foster peace in the region.

By leveraging its diplomatic, economic, and cultural strengths, Africa can play a pivotal role in promoting dialogue, understanding, and ultimately, a truce in the Middle East.

A collaborative approach, focused on mutual respect and shared goals, could pave the way for a more peaceful and stable future for both regions.

Aloys Michael 
Kenyan Freelance Journalist who comments on Governance and Security Issues