Pretoria – South Africa has been elected by Member States to serve a two-year term on the Peace and Security Council of the African Union (AU) starting from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2028.
South Africa was elected alongside the Kingdom of Lesotho to represent the Southern region for the two available seats.
These pivotal elections took place on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, during the 38th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola, who is leading the South African delegation, formally welcomed the election on behalf of the government.
Minister Lamola stated that this election reaffirms South Africa’s role in fostering a more resilient continent.
“To achieve the goals of Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want, we have to exert more efforts on peacemaking and peacebuilding in our Continent,” stated Minister Lamola.
Commenting further, Minister Lamola thanked the AU Member States for their confidence in South Africa and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to work constructively with the entire membership of the Peace and Security Council in addressing the many challenges that bedevil the continent.
Africa continues to grapple with unconstitutional changes of government, a recurring trend since 2020, which persists until today.
The continent is also battling terrorism and violent extremism that have resulted in the killing and maiming of thousands of innocent civilians.
Ministry Spokesperson Chrispin Phiri explained that it was in this context that South Africa’s term on the Peace and Security Council will be guided by its foreign policy, which prioritises the African continent’s peace, stability, and development.
“Furthermore, South Africa is committed to contributing to a continent that is peaceful, prosperous, and embodies pan-African ideals,” Phiri stated.
“This commitment is evident in the numerous peace and security initiatives in which South Africa has participated and continues to engage, including its role as interim Chair of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
“South Africa will advocate for peaceful conflict resolution, inclusive dialogue, and negotiations, aimed at supporting conflicting parties in finding durable solutions.”
