ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (AP) — The African Union Commission has appointed Burundi’s former foreign minister, Albert Shingiro, as special envoy to support the implementation of a recent international court ruling in a territorial dispute between Gabon and Equatorial Guinea.
African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf announced the appointment as part of efforts to ensure a coordinated and peaceful execution of the judgment issued by the International Court of Justice on May 19, 2025.
The ruling addressed land and maritime boundaries and sovereignty over the islands of Mbanié, Conga and Cocoteros, which have long been contested by the two Central African nations.
The appointment follows a quadripartite meeting held Feb. 14, 2026, under the auspices of the African Union, where both countries reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the court’s decision peacefully and cooperatively.
In his role, Shingiro will conduct consultations with both governments to help reach consensus on how the ruling will be carried out, in line with the principles of the African Union’s Constitutive Act.
The African Union said the move reflects its broader commitment to resolving disputes through peaceful means and promoting African-led solutions grounded in international law.
Youssouf expressed confidence in Shingiro’s experience and expertise, saying his appointment would help advance stability and strengthen good neighborly relations between Gabon and Equatorial Guinea.
