[AL Jazeera] AU- African Union celebrates consensus with Shakira

The African Union this morning has reached a consensus on the issue of implementing stronger international tracing mechanisms for small arms and light weapons (SALW). All delegates present were in favor of increased African measures on top of pre-existing international agreements. Delegates rejoiced by collectively dancing ‘Waka Waka (It’s time for Africa)’ by Shakira. 

Delegates all agreed that current measures in place were not well-enforced and ineffective. All nations present called for more measures, especially in the area of transparency and accessibility for other nations in the form of online international lists. The Comoros and Mauritius recalled the necessity of arms lists to prevent international piracy, and South Africa’s delegate went a step further by demanding mandatory application to all African nations. Algeria does not agree with this stance, wanting to keep the agreement optional.

Due to the success in negotiations, a celebratory dance was proposed by the chairs of the committee. Delegates showed off their ultimate African dance moves, showing the full potential of the continent. Our on-site journalist determined Algeria, Gambia, Sierra Leone and Uganda to possess the hips that lie the least. Afterwards, the delegate of Algeria commented that this performance would surely “unite all the nations [of Africa]”. 

The African Union has been known for a lacklustre ability to enforce policies in the past. The organization is plagued by an inability to create lasting change and cooperation on the continent, with recent conflict in Sudan, Ethiopia and eastern Congo shining examples of this. If this dancing will change that anytime soon is to be seen.