AU, Kenya Airways partner for peace

30 Jun 2010

ADDIS ABABA: The Commission of the African Union (AU) and Kenya Airways have announced a partnership in aid of the 2010 Year of Peace and Security in Africa. Under the agreement, Kenya Airways will provide communication and financial support to the Make Peace Happen campaign.

On behalf of the AU Commission, peace and security commissioner, Ambassador Ramtane Lamamra, expressed gratitude to Kenya Airways, and optimism that other private companies in Africa would join in with the AU Commission in aiding this cause.

Economic development requires peace

Said Lamamra, "One of the guiding principles of the Year of Peace and Security is inclusivity, and through this programme, the AU is looking for ways to open up spaces for all stakeholders and deepen partnerships with the private sector. The commission acknowledges that businesses can contribute to the promotion of peace in Africa, and aims to enlist their support, bearing in mind that without peace there can be no sustainable economic development."

Kenya Airways CEO, Dr. Titus Naikuni said that Kenya Airways is a partner in the strategic and sustainable development of Africa and noted that peace and stability is a natural prerequisite for business and the development of the people of Africa.

Commitment from the private sector

The AU Commission is reaching out to the private sector, to support the Year of Peace and Security through various means, including the signing of the Make Peace Happen Industry Charter, as demonstration of businesses' commitment to contributing to the promotion of peace on the continent.