NAIROBI, May 11 (Xinhua) -- United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called on the international community to act swiftly to address the conflicts and climate shocks affecting African nations.
Guterres highlighted that Africa's path to a peaceful and prosperous future is severely hindered by conflict, climate-induced emergencies, and imbalances in the multilateral system.
"No discussion of Africa's future can ignore the conflicts causing so much suffering across the continent," Guterres told journalists in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, calling for the immediate cessation of hostilities in Sudan, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, and South Sudan.
Guterres warned that terrorism, climate stress, hunger, and poverty are devastating the Sahel region, stressing that lasting peace requires dialogue, international cooperation, and stronger local institutions.
Guterres also highlighted how conflicts in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz directly threaten African stability, noting that 13 percent of the continent's imports -- mainly oil and fertilizers -- pass through this vital waterway.
He said four in five African countries are net oil importers, and any prolonged disruption to global supply chains would severely worsen their economic vulnerability.
"That is why de-escalation is urgent. Navigational rights and freedoms must be restored. The Strait of Hormuz must reopen fully and safely. All parties must refrain from any action that could widen the conflict, and diplomacy must be given every chance," Guterres said.
He said the UN is deepening its engagement with Africa amid growing turbulence in the international order to advance peace, sustainable development, and climate justice.
Guterres criticized the exclusion of Africa from a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, adding that the UN will continue to push for a fairer international system that gives Africa a stronger voice, more resources, and more equitable representation. ■