Assembly/AU/6(XVI) Page 14 continent. In this respect, they requested the Commission to take the necessary preparatory steps for the increase of the statutory transfer from the AU regular budget to the Peace Fund from 6 to 12%. They also encouraged all Member States in a position to do so to make voluntary contributions to the Peace Fund. Subsequently, the relevant AU policy organs decided to gradually implement this increase over a period of three years, starting from 2011. At the same time, the Commission has pursued its efforts aimed at securing United Nations support, through assessed contributions, for AU operations undertaken with the consent of the Security Council, while continuing to rely on the support provided by the EU, under the Africa Peace Facility (APF), as well as by other bilateral and multilateral partners. 54. At the same time, Africa cannot continue to endlessly and overwhelmingly rely on external support for the promotion of peace and security on the continent, as this situation undermines the effectiveness of AU’s efforts, due to the lack of predictability and flexibility inherent in voluntarily contributions, and the true ownership of our initiatives. In this respect, sustained efforts will be made to mobilize resources from within the continent, including from private sector, individuals and other stakeholders. 55. I cannot conclude without expressing my sincere appreciation to Member States, RECs/RMs and other relevant institutions, civil society, private sector and ordinary men and women in Africa for their dedication and support, without which the achievements made would not have been possible. I also would like to thank AU partners for their support and commitment to the quest for peace on the continent. As we embark on a sustainability programme to consolidate the gains made, I would like to appeal to all to remain engaged and to continue to extend the required support.