RESEARCH TO POLICY WORKSHOP

IPSTC in collaboration with the University of Essex convened a one-day workshop under the theme “Translating Peacekeeping Evidence to Field Effectiveness,” bringing together researchers, peace support operations practitioners, and mission representatives to explore how evidence-based research can strengthen peace operations. The workshop provided a platform for meaningful discussions on aligning research, policy, and operational realities in peacekeeping.

Speaking during the opening session, Prof H Dorussen from the University of Essex emphasized the importance of evidence-based research in improving the effectiveness of peace support operations.The Director IPSTC, Maj Gen C L Mwazighe reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to promoting research-driven policy discussions that contribute to more responsive and effective peace operations. He noted that bridging the gap between research and practice is essential in enhancing the impact of peace missions.Through plenary discussions and group engagements, participants examined different perspectives on measuring effectiveness in both United Nations and African Union mission contexts. The sessions encouraged knowledge sharing, reflection on lessons learned, and the development of practical approaches to improving mission outcomes.

The workshop reinforced the importance of partnerships, dialogue, and evidence-informed decision-making in advancing sustainable peace and security efforts, while further strengthening IPSTC’s role as a regional hub for peace and security research, training, and policy engagement.

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.

UN WOMEN COUNTRY REPRESENTATIVE, KENYA VISITS IPSTC

On 14 April 2026, UN Women Country Representative - Kenya, Antonia N’Gabala - Sodonon, paid a courtesy call to our Director, Maj Gen C L Mwazighe.

The meeting underscored a shared commitment to elevate visibility and strengthen strategic partnerships, setting the stage for impactful collaboration that empowers women as central actors in peace and security processes.

At the core of the discussions was a strong resolve to fast-track the implementation of the Elsie Initiative Fund supported project, an initiative poised to drive tangible change by enhancing capacity, boosting operational effectiveness, and advancing meaningful participation of women in peace support operations.

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