KAIPTC Remembers Kofi Annan

A year after the passing of former UN General-Secretary, Kofi Annan, the International Peace Keeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) has joined the world in celebrating him.

The maiden edition of the Kofi Annan Peace and Security forum convened under the theme: ‘Peace Operations in the Context of Violent Extremism in Africa’, has been held in honour of the late statesman. 

The first day of the two-day event at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel, which is meant to be an annual international platform, will bring together political leaders, diplomats and other experts to dialogue on security trends in Africa.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, speaking as Special Guest at the First Day, called for the promotion and development of a system and culture of accountable governance, free of corruption, whereby peoples are governed in accordance with the rule of law, respect for individual liberties and human rights, and the principles of democratic accountability.

“Such a system requires building strong institutions of state, such as well-resourced Parliaments and Judiciaries, efficient law enforcement agencies, and effective security forces that see their responsibilities and allegiances to the wider public interest, not just to the conveniences of the government of the day. Innovative, creative mobilisation and disciplined use of public resources are, therefore, of the utmost importance in this struggle for national development. It can be done,” he said. 

He urged African leaders to prioritize access to education for Africa’s youth as a means to combating terrorism and violent extremism.

At a panel discussion, security analyst and Director of the Faculty of Academic Affairs & Research at KAIPTC, Dr. Kwesi Anning, touched on the need for improved training and resourcing of peacekeeping missions on the sub-region.

Some former heads of state, who also addressed the forum, highlighted their nation’s struggles with extremism and other forms of civil strife, and what they had done to overcome the struggles.

Other panel members were former Ghana President John Mahama, former Liberia President, Amos Sawyer, former Sierra Leone, President Ernest Koroma, former Burundi President, Pierre Buyoya, former Somalia President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, former C.A.R President, Catherine Samba-Panza, and Mr. Annan’s widow, Nane Lagergren.