The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is backing a multi-million dollar project to combat "the scourge of violent conflicts" in Africa. The scheme, which will cost $6,4-million, is part of a three-year project aimed at boosting efforts by the newly formed African Union (AU) to tackle wars on the continent. Among the areas that the project will help finance is the AU's much-heralded Peace and Security Council (PSC), which has yet to get off the ground.