The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has appointed Ambassador Jainaba Jagne of the Republic of The Gambia as the African Union Special Envoy for Children Affected by Armed Conflict (CAAC).

The appointment, made in line with decisions of the AU Peace and Security Council, reflects the Commission’s renewed commitment to advancing the continental Child Rights Agenda, particularly in conflict and post-conflict settings.

It also aims to strengthen advocacy, coordination, and accountability in addressing grave violations committed against children across Africa.

As Special Envoy, Ambassador Jagne will serve as the AU’s lead political advocate for the protection and promotion of the rights and welfare of children affected by armed conflict. She will work closely with AU Member States, AU Organs, Regional Economic Communities and Mechanisms, civil society organizations, and international partners.

Ambassador Jagne has reaffirmed her full commitment to the principles and objectives of the African Union, including Africa’s Agenda for Children 2040: Fostering an Africa Fit for Children, and Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.

She brings extensive diplomatic experience and deep expertise in peace, security, and child welfare. Prior to her appointment, Ambassador Jagne served as The Gambia’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the African Union and co-chaired the Africa Platform on Children Affected by Armed Conflict (AP-CAAC).

The AU Commission expressed confidence that her leadership will significantly contribute to safeguarding the rights and well-being of millions of African children living in conflict-affected situations.

It has also called on Member States, regional bodies, and the international community to provide full support and cooperation to the Special Envoy in the effective implementation of her mandate.