Creating normalcy in Africa's conflict regions

The need to build institutional trust remains crucial in addressing the challenges facing conflict-affected areas in Africa. As Sy, a Member of the Governing Board at Interpeace, highlighted in an interview with CNBC Africa, over 85% of the population in Africa reside in conflict zones, a situation he deems as far from 'normal'. Speaking on the side-lines of the Africa Resilience Forum, Sy emphasized the necessity of ceasing conflicts and creating a sense of normalcy to allow people to regain not only their livelihoods and possessions but most importantly, their human dignity, a fundamental aspect for achieving long-term peace. He stressed the significance of leadership at all levels, urging leaders and actors to utilize their influence to end conflicts and foster normalcy. Sy acknowledged the complex challenges faced by populations in conflict zones and highlighted various approaches essential for addressing these issues. One key focus is humanitarian assistance, providing basic necessities such as access to water, sanitation, healthcare, and protection for vulnerable individuals. Additionally, development efforts play a crucial role, aiming to establish sustainable infrastructure in conflict-affected regions, while ensuring that the private sector's involvement aligns with peace-sensitive practices. Sy underscored the importance of ensuring that all activities contribute positively to resolving issues and do not exacerbate the existing problems. Central to fostering normalcy in conflict regions is the establishment of trust and partnerships. Sy articulated the need to engage with local communities and cultivate trust, both at institutional and grassroots levels. He emphasized that building trust requires creating an enabling environment through tangible responses to real needs and keeping promises made. The interview highlighted the critical role of institutions like Interpeace, non-governmental organizations, and entities such as the African Development Bank in promoting trust and collaboration. Sy outlined the journey towards addressing the financial aspect of conflict resolution, underscoring the importance of attracting investors towards sustainable solutions. He emphasized the necessity of formulating asset classes that address the challenges faced in conflict regions and instilling trust in institutions and initiatives. Trust-building, according to Sy, is paramount in garnering support from various stakeholders and ensuring the success of programs aimed at fostering resilience and peace. Moreover, Sy drew parallels between the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and the imperative to prepare for and respond to various shocks and hazards effectively. He highlighted the significance of early alert systems, investments in long-term resilience, and local manufacturing capacities to mitigate vulnerabilities in the face of crises. Using the example of climate shocks and conflict prevention, Sy underlined the need to anticipate and proactively address instability to prevent disasters and protect vulnerable populations. He stressed the importance of developing strategies to avert conflicts and famines, emphasizing the responsibility to enhance the resilience of communities to withstand future challenges. Sy concluded by cautioning against repetitive cycles of vulnerability and urged for a proactive and holistic approach to building trust, fostering normalcy, and securing long-term peace in Africa's conflict-affected regions.