Activity Report of the OAU Commission of Fifteen on Refugees on the 52nd session of OAU Council of Ministers, July 1990

Abstract

This activity report presents the findings and activities of the OAU Commission of Fifteen on Refugees during the 52nd session of the OAU Council of Ministers in July 1990. Africa has been significantly impacted by the refugee crisis, currently hosting over 5 million officially recognized and assisted refugees, which represents one-third of the global total. Additionally, approximately 12 million Africans are internally or externally displaced, living in precarious conditions. The report also highlights the deteriorating economic circumstances faced by host countries, which exacerbate the challenges for refugees and displaced persons, particularly women and children who comprise about half of this population. Key refugee concentrations are identified in Eastern Africa, notably the Horn of Africa, as well as Southern and Central Africa, with some presence in Northern and Western regions. This report emphasizes the ongoing struggles faced by these vulnerable groups and underscores the urgent need for comprehensive support and intervention strategies.