Tropical Cyclone Harold started on 1 April 2020 as a tropical storm in the Pacific region and rapidly strengthened on 6 April 2020 to a Category 5 cyclone.  The cyclone, with highest winds of 220km/hr, struck the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Fiji and Tonga and caused significant damage. The cyclone is currently active and thus far, there are reports of approximately 27 deaths; maritime rescue accidents and fatalities; displacement of thousands of households; substantial losses due to heavy rainfall, storm surges, fallen trees and branches and severely damaged public and private infrastructure.

Brussels, 7 April 2020/ACP: Today marks the 26th anniversary of the Genocide perpetrated against the Tutsi in 1994. Over the past 16 years, the OACPS has commemorated this day in accordance with the decision of the 59th Session of the OACPS Council of Ministers. This attests to the OACPS’ unwavering solidarity with the Government and people of Rwanda, and our solemn commitment to never forget one of the most heinous crimes against humanity. 

Brussels, 7 April 2020/ACP: I am humbled to make this Statement on behalf of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) on the commemoration of one of the most atrocious tragedies to have occurred on the African continent, and indeed in the world. 

This solemn occasion is an annual reminder to pay homage to the women and men who lost their lives 26 years ago for no reason other than that of their ethnicity, when Rwandese extremists rose up against their compatriots.

The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States offically became the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States on 5 April 2020. This follows the entry into force of the revised Georgetown Agreement which was endorsed by the ACP Heads of State at the 9th Summit of ACP Heads of State and Government in December 2019 in Nairobi, Kenya.

The Pan-African Farmers Organization (PAFO) and its member organizations pledge their support to ensure food security during COVID-19 quarantine. Read the full statement HERE.

On behalf of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP Group), the Secretary-General, H.E. Mr. Georges Rebelo Pinto CHIKOTI expresses his deep concern regarding the prevailing political situation in Guyana following the elections held on 2 March 2020.

The Secretary-General appeals to the political leadership of Guyana to exercise its collective responsibility in pursuit of consolidating democratic governance in Guyana.   The observation of the rule of law and the strengthening of democratic principles are reinforced by free, fair and transparent elections.

STATEMENT BY THE SECRETARY-GENERAL ON THE COVID-19 (CORONAVIRUS) AND ITS IMPACT ON THE AFRICAN, CARIBBEAN AND PACIFIC GROUP OF STATES

As the Corona virus spreads across the globe, African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) States are taking preventive measures to contain the disease and many are showing a strong level of preparedness to counter its spread. However, the number of cases in our countries is increasing, and more countries are affected with each passing day.