PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan is scheduled to lead celebrations to mark 20 years since the creation of Peace and Security Council of the African Union (AU) in Dar es Salaam this Saturday.

Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation January Makamba told reporters in Dar es Salaam yesterday that the event is organized in collaboration with the AU Commission.

The gathering is expected to bring together several current and retired presidents, Makamba said. 

The minister said the event will be held under the theme ‘20 years of Peace and Security Council of the African Union', adding that this is a body tasked to manage peace and security in Africa.

"The Peace and Security Council of the African Union has 15 members appointed after a period of time by rotation, to deal with conflicts. Currently Tanzania chairs it,” he said.

He said that Tanzania is a beacon of peace in Africa due to the fact that it hosted several countries on the continent when they were fighting for freedom and liberation.

"Tanzania is recognized for its contribution to liberation. Many African leaders who lived here during that period speak fluent Kiswahili," said Makamba.

"Tanzania's responsibility by then was to help in the liberation struggle and uphold peace. We will hold a ceremony in Dar es Salaam. The President has invited current and retired leaders, including Joachim Chissano, Olusegun Obasanjo, Domitien Ndayizeye and Jakaya Kikwete.” he said.