The African Union has been charged to make its position on the African migrant crisis known.

The European Union has agreed to use naval forces to intercept and disrupt ships used by smugglers of migrants crossing from Lybia.

The aim of the programme is to stop smugglers with human cargo to prevent thousands of deaths at sea.

Foreign Affairs Committee member, Patrick Boamah says the AU needs to address the growing numbers of African migrants heading by sea illegally to Europe.

He said the news of migrants from Africa and the disturbing deaths associated with their journey as well as the struggle by the European Union to provide asylum for these migrants must be critically addressed.

According to him, the AU must tighten security at borders of the various countries in order to restrict illegal movements.

The cause of these constant migrations – even though risky, is due to loss of confidence, hope in the leadership, he said, adding the leaders must make conscious efforts to inform citizens about steps being taken to address their problems.

Patrick Boamah called for stringent measures to be put in place to deal with human traffickers deeply involved in the menace.

Meanwhile the chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee says the inability of the AU to mobilise a standing army is hindering its effort to promote democracy and upholding the rights of citizens.

Emmanuel Bandua believes the AU needs to tackle the challenges hampering the integration of the African continent.

He called on all African leaders to show more commitment and the necessary political will as the continent struggles to attain a fully fledged African Union.