Former President Olusegun Obasanjo says the financing and arming of proxy groups by external actors remains a major obstacle to achieving lasting peace in Africa. He spoke on Thursday at the Mashariki Cooperation Conference held in Diani, Kwale County, Kenya.
Addressing the theme of emerging geopolitical dynamics and Africa’s security architecture, Obasanjo said military intervention without a credible political process only delays or prolongs conflicts. He also cited the rise of coups in the Sahel, warning against leaders using anti-colonial rhetoric to undermine citizens’ rights.
He acknowledged that public grievances have contributed to support for military takeovers but said such regimes have not delivered sustained development or security. Obasanjo added that early warning signs of conflict are often visible but ignored due to a lack of political will and coordination among institutions.
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The former president called for stronger intelligence systems across Africa, urging better use of the African Union’s early warning mechanisms. He also highlighted cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan and Libya, where foreign support for armed groups has prolonged conflicts, and urged African institutions to expose such interventions.
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