The pledge was made by Gabon’s ambassador to the African Union William Anguilé during the Addis-Ababa donors’ conference.
The release reads: “On behalf of Ali Bongo Ondimba, the president of the republic of Gabon, I announce that Gabon will participate in the efforts to back Mali with a financial contribution of CFA500 million.”
“In a move not to allow this type of conflict to be expanded throughout a whole region, we must come together in support for Mali. Gabon also wishes the mandate of AFISMA to be implemented as early as possible in line with the UN Resolution 2025,” it said.
AU has estimated to US$460 million the amount required for the deployment of AFISMA. The continental bloc will participate up to 10%, contributing financially for the first time to a peacekeeping operation.
Japan has pledged US$120 million.
France units comprising some 2500 soldiers have alongside Malian forces recaptured three major northern towns including Gao, Timbuktu and Kidal formerly occupied by the militants.
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