Uganda has won the bid to host the African Humanitarian Agency (AfHA) during the 45th Session of the African Union Executive Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs held in Accra, Ghana.
Uganda edged out three other countries to win the bid, following an extensive process including an Assessment Mission to all four countries to assess proposals and suitability to host the Agency.
According to the results, Kenya acquired 76.13% of the vote; Nigeria got 74.50%; Equatorial Guinea got 76.70% while Uganda scooped 85.66%.
In April 2023, President Museveni received a delegation from the African Union led by Prof. Julio Rakotonirina, the Head of AU Health Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development to evaluate Uganda’s bid to host the African Union Humanitarian Agency.
The establishment of the African Humanitarian Agency as Africa’s Institutional pillar in responding to forced displacements and disasters on the continent gives effect to the centrality of African States in humanitarian action on the continent and marks a significant development in shaping Africa’s Humanitarian Agenda and Architecture.
According to AU, Africa faces numerous humanitarian challenges due to armed conflicts, natural disasters, epidemics, and other emergencies. These crises often exacerbate existing vulnerabilities and inequalities.
By fostering effective and inclusive humanitarian action, the continent can enhance response mechanisms, ensure equitable access to essential services, promote protection and resilience, and support sustainable development goals.
The African Union has a crucial role in fostering effective and inclusive humanitarian action in Africa.
