In a bid to bolster diplomatic ties and address pressing regional issues, Assistant Secretary Anne A. Witkowsky of the State Department’s Bureau of Conflict and Stabilisation Operations is set to embark on a crucial journey to Mozambique, Ethiopia, and Kenya from March 17th to 26th.
Her primary focus in Mozambique will be to engage with governmental bodies, civil society representatives, and international partners to further initiatives aimed at facilitating the recovery and bolstering the resilience of communities affected by conflict.
During her stay, Assistant Secretary Witkowsky will assess the effectiveness of U.S. support under the U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability. Critical topics on her agenda include fostering dialogue on youth engagement, advocating for women’s involvement in peacebuilding endeavours, and exploring the contributions of the private sector towards fostering peace and stability.
Transitioning to Kenya and Ethiopia, Assistant Secretary Witkowsky will delve into opportunities to enhance U.S. backing for regional endeavours aimed at fostering peace and stability within the Horn of Africa.
In Kenya, discussions will centre on fortifying the U.S. partnership with the Kenyan government to bolster its capacity to support peace negotiations within the region. In both countries, meetings with various stakeholders, including civil society representatives, UN officials, and African Union partners, will be conducted to explore collaboration avenues concerning early warning systems, conflict monitoring mechanisms, and support for negotiations.
Assistant Secretary Witkowsky’s diplomatic mission underscores the United States’ commitment to fostering stability and peace within the region, while also highlighting the significance of multilateral collaboration in addressing complex regional challenges.
