AI FOR PEACE SUMMIT 2026
On 24 April 2026, we hosted the AI for Peace Summit 2026 at the Humanitarian Peace Support School. Held under the theme “Advancing Artificial Intelligence for Peace, Governance and Resilience,” the summit highlighted AI as a game-changer in modern conflict, enhancing early warning, strengthening decision-making, and reshaping how threats are predicted, managed, and prevented across Sub-Saharan Africa and other fragile contexts.
The General Officer Commanding Central Command, Major General J M Nkoimo, emphasized that artificial intelligence is rapidly redefining both conflict and peacebuilding. He noted that modern security environments are increasingly shaped by technology, urging institutions to adapt swiftly and integrate AI responsibly while upholding ethical standards to ensure sustainable peace and stability.
The Founder of AI for Peace Africa, Naomi Kilungu, underscored the importance of Africa taking a leading role in shaping AI solutions tailored to its unique contexts. She emphasized the need for inclusive and ethical frameworks that empower communities, strengthen resilience, and bridge the gap between technology and peacebuilding efforts across the continent.In his keynote address, Ambassador Fred Ngoga of the African Union underscored the far-reaching impact of artificial intelligence on modern conflict. He noted that AI is transforming information warfare through tools like deep fakes, lowering barriers for terrorism and cyber threats, and enabling powerful surveillance capabilities. He emphasized that AI is fundamentally reshaping the nature of conflict. He challenged Africa to take a proactive role in shaping the technology rather than being shaped by it.
The summit closed with a shared recognition that artificial intelligence is no longer a distant concept, but a present force shaping peace and security. It sparked critical conversations, strengthened partnerships, and ignited a collective resolve to harness AI responsibly. As momentum builds, the call is clear, Africa must not only adapt to this new reality, but boldly lead in shaping it for a more secure and resilient future.
The partnership between Japan and IPSTC, which dates back to 2011, continues to stand as a powerful pillar in advancing capacity building for peace support operations. Over the years, this collaboration has significantly enhanced the Centre’s ability to deliver high-impact training, equipping personnel with critical skills to address evolving security challenges and strengthening both regional and global peace efforts.
In his remarks, Our Director, Maj Gen C L Mwazighe, emphasized the transformative impact of the partnership, noting that Japan’s sustained support has been instrumental in shaping the Centre’s growth and excellence.
The engagement highlighted the power of sustained partnerships in building highly skilled peace support personnel. Through ongoing collaboration, these efforts are driving innovation in training, enhancing operational effectiveness, and making a meaningful contribution to regional and global peace and security.
