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ASEC2026 Agenda “Strengthening African Security Through Innovation & Inclusion”
Monday 06 July
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ASEC2026 Overview
The 13th Africa Security Symposium (ASEC2026), co-organised with the African Union Commission’s Political Affairs, Peace & Security Department (PAPS), brings together senior government officials, defence and interior ministries, regional security bodies, UN missions, NGOs, and leading technical experts to address the continent’s most pressing peace and security challenges. Under the theme “Strengthening African Security Through Innovation and Inclusion”, under the Chatham House Rules, the three‑day programme explores strategic, operational, and emerging issues shaping Africa’s security landscape, with a strong emphasis on African‑led solutions, cross‑sector collaboration, and sustainable capacity building. Through high‑level panel discussions, keynote interventions, and structured public–private matchmaking sessions, ASEC2026 aims to generate practical, enduring outcomes that support stability, resilience, and inclusive development across the continent.
 
Welcome to the 13th Africa Security Symposium (ASEC2026) Chaired by Emmanuel Wekem KOTIA PhD, Retired Major General of the Ghana Armed Forces.
14:00 - 19:00
Pre-Event Registration - Labadi Beach Hotel Reception
Attendees may complete registration by collecting their delegate pack & event access pass (business card required). Sponsors are asked to setup their exhibition booths from 4pm onwards. The ASEC registration desk will remain open all afternoon for those attending the site-visit and afternoon workshops etc.
16:00 - 18:00
Defence Attachés' Workshop - Omanye Ballroom
Welcoming Defence Attachés from across the continent, this dedicated pre‑event workshop adopts a round‑table format designed to encourage open, candid discussion and practical knowledge‑sharing. Participants will reflect on lessons learned from recent operations, examine current challenges affecting peace and stability, and identify emerging priorities for regional and national security agendas. The session will also explore the role of private‑sector capabilities in supporting African security objectives, assessing where the most significant gaps lie, what solutions are available, and how they can be effectively implemented. The workshop provides a trusted environment for meaningful dialogue, peer exchange, and collaborative thinking ahead of the main ASEC programme.
19:00 - 21:00
Evening Networking Reception - Labadi Beach Hotel, Pool Side
Attendees are invited to meet for an 'ice-breaker' Networking Reception, pool side at the Labadi Beach Hotel, to discuss the three days ahead in a relaxed and informal setting, whilst enjoying a range of canapés and refreshments. Also, an ideal opportunity for panellists to engage with ASEC2026's Panel Chairs.
Tuesday 07 July
Strategic Foundations & Continental Priorities - Omanye Ballroom
8:00 - 8:45
Networking Registration
If not already done so, ASEC2026 attendees may complete registration by collecting their delegate pack & event access pass (business card required) whilst networking and enjoying tea & coffee.
8:45 - 9:10
Opening Ceremony
 
Andrew DOWELL, Managing Director of PNYX
 
Emmanuel Wekem KOTIA PhD, Retired Major General of Ghana Armed Forces and ASEC2026 CHAIR
 
Keynote Address
 H.E. Amb. Bankole ADEOYE, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace & Security (PAPS) of African Union Commission (AUC)
9:10 - 9:20
Opening Keynote Address
 
Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato FORSON Invited - TBC, Ag. Minister of Defence
Ghana Ministry of Defence
9:20 - 10:30
Panel 1; Strengthening African-Led Security Frameworks: Regional Cooperation, Innovation, and Strategic Readiness
ASEC2026's opening session explores how African led security mechanisms can drive more coherent, responsive, and sustainable outcomes across the continent. With the African Union Commission’s Political Affairs, Peace & Security Department (PAPS) at the centre, the discussion examines the evolution of regional cooperation, the role of RECs/RMs, and the importance of strengthening national capacities to support collective action. Panellists consider how innovation, integrated defence solutions, and modern air and multi domain capabilities can enhance readiness, improve situational awareness, and support rapid response across diverse operational environments. Panel 1 also highlights opportunities for African industry, research institutions, and public–private collaboration to contribute to long term resilience, interoperability, and strategic autonomy.
 
Panel Chair: Guillaume BEURNAUX, Sales Director of Embraer Defense & Security
 
Col Henderson Macbinnie CHILENGA, Deputy Commandant (Joint Force Headquarters) of Malawi Defence Force (MDF)
 
Rajendra NAIDOO, General Manager of South Africa State Security Agency (SSA)
 
Air Marshal Jacob John NZVEDE, Commander of Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ)
 
Lieutenant-General Peter SCOTT, Deputy Commander of NATO's Allied Joint Force Command Naples
 
Representative TBC Invited - TBC of Ghana Armed Forces
10:20 - 10:30
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
10:30 - 11:10
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
11:10 - 11:25
Spotlight Address
 
Kevin BUCHLER, Global Operations Officer of Communications Specialist Ltd
11:25 - 12:25
Panel 2; Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism: New Approaches for Prevention, Response, and Community Resilience
Terrorism and violent extremism continue to destabilise regions from the Sahel to the Horn and North Africa. Panel two examines evolving threat patterns, the drivers of radicalisation, and the need for integrated approaches that combine security, governance, and community based resilience. Panellists explore intelligence sharing, cross border cooperation, and the role of advanced analytics, geolocation tools, and digital forensics in strengthening early warning and operational response. The discussion also considers how youth engagement, economic inclusion, and local leadership can reduce the appeal of extremist narratives.
 
Panel Chair: Arnaud BESNIER, Sales Account Director of Advanced Middle East Systems FZ LLC
 
Major General Saidu Tanko AUDU, Force Commander of Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF)
 
Amb. El Hadji Ibrahima DIENE, SRCC and Head of AUSSOM of AUSSOM - African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia
 
Dr. Muhammad MEHDI, Founder & CEO of Elile AI Corporation
 
Sabine Esther Caroline ZWAENEPOEL, Acting Head of Unit of European Commission - International Partnerships
12:15 - 12:25
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
12:25 - 12:40
Spotlight Address
 
Fidel Amakye OWUSU, Strategic Advisor of unival group GmbH
12:40 - 14:00
Networking Lunch Break
14:00 - 15:00
Panel 3; Securing National Borders and Combating Transnational Crime: Technology, Coordination, and Integrated Enforcement
Panel three focuses on the growing complexity of border management and the rise of transnational crime networks involved in trafficking, smuggling, illicit mining, financial crime, and illegal migration. Panellists examine how smart data platforms, lawful intelligence tools, aerial ISR, and multi mission aircraft can strengthen detection, interdiction, and cross border information sharing. The discussion also highlights the need for inter agency coordination, harmonised legal frameworks, and stronger cooperation between neighbouring states, while balancing security with trade facilitation and humanitarian considerations.
 
Panel Chair: Edward HARTUNG, Sales Director of Rakia Coding and Machine learning
 
Yao Bernard AKA, Regional Specialized Officer of INTERPOL Regional Bureau for West Africa
 
Hamady DIAKITE, Deputy Inspector General of General Inspectorate of Police & Civil Protection Services, Guinea Ministry of Security & Civil Protection
 
COP Dr. Sayibu GARIBA Invited - TBC, Director-General - Technical of Ghana Police Service (GPS)
 
Berthaneema Wilhelim MLAY, Chief Arms Management, Disarmament & Registration of Tanzania Police Force (TPF)
14:50 - 15:00
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
15:00 - 15:30
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
15:30 - 18:00
ASEC Public-Private Sector 1-2-1 Matchmaking Meetings
Afternoon session dedicated to structured 15‑minute 1‑2‑1 matchmaking meetings connecting government representatives from defence, interior, police, border agencies, and regional task forces, U.S., United Nations, NGO stakeholders, with attending local, regional, and global solution providers. These pre‑arranged schedules create a focused environment for meaningful introductions, technical exchanges, and early‑stage collaboration. The sessions offer a unique opportunity to explore practical capabilities, discuss operational needs, and identify scalable solutions that can strengthen peacekeeping, security operations, and resilience efforts across the continent.
Wednesday 08 July
Peacekeeping, Climate Pressures & Digital Threats - Omanye Ballroom
8:30 - 9:00
Networking Registration
If not already done so, ASEC2026 attendees may complete registration by collecting their delegate pack & event access pass (business card required) whilst networking and enjoying tea & coffee.
9:00 - 9:10
Day Two Welcome Remarks
 
Emmanuel Wekem KOTIA PhD, Retired Major General of Ghana Armed Forces and ASEC2026 CHAIR
9:10 - 9:20
Keynote Address
 
James AJI Invited - TBC, Head of UNOWAS Liaison Cell in Abuja
UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS)
9:20 - 10:20
Panel 4; UN Peace Operations in Transition: Enhancing Mission Effectiveness Through Training, Technology, and Adaptive Mandates
As peace operations evolve in response to shifting conflict dynamics, ASEC2026 day two commences by examining how African and UN missions can adapt to remain effective. Panellists explore mission planning, force generation, training standards, and the integration of protected mobility platforms, unmanned systems, and special mission aircraft to improve situational awareness and operational support. The discussion also considers mandate design, political engagement, and sustaining peace in fragile environments, with emphasis on strengthening African troop contributing countries and enhancing mission support systems.
 
Panel Chair: Ms Michelle Nxumalo, International Marketing Manager of DCD Protected Mobility
 
Brig Gen Telenkako BANDA, Commandant - Kenneth Kaunda Peace Training Centre of Zambia Army
 
Zaineb GHARBI, Police Advisor of UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS)
 
Amb. Lazaro Akoi Arou MAKUACH Invited - TBC, Director General of South Sudan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
 
Brig Gen Alexander Edward MASANGURA, FIB Commander of MONUSCO Force Intervention Brigade (FIB)
10:10 - 10:20
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
10:20 - 10:35
Spotlight Address
 
Simon WILLIAMS, Regional Director of United Aero Group
10:35 - 11:15
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
11:15 - 11:25
Keynote Address
 
Prof. Ahmed Abubakar AUDI, Commandant
Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
11:25 - 12:25
Panel 5; Climate-Driven Insecurity and Humanitarian Pressures: Managing Displacement, Resource Stress, and Disaster Response
Climate change is intensifying conflict risks, driving displacement, and placing pressure on already fragile systems. This session explores the intersection of climate shocks, resource scarcity, and humanitarian needs, with a focus on early warning, resilience planning, and cross‑border coordination. Panellists will examine how modern technologies — including autonomous systems, advanced ISR, and real‑time situational awareness tools — can support governments and humanitarian actors in assessing damage, monitoring population movements, and responding safely and effectively to crises. The discussion also considers how civil–military cooperation, data‑driven planning, and innovative partnerships can strengthen preparedness and reduce human exposure to risk.
 
Panel Chair: Mark Hawkins, Senior Humanitarian Technology Advisor of IEC Telecom Group
 
Claude Kakule MUKANDA, Representative & Country Director of WFP Mauritania - World Food Programme
 
LT COL Msc Libere NIYONKURU Invited - TBC, Expert - Military Intelligence Analysis of Burundi National Defence Force (FDNB)
 
Daniel TAGOE, National Programme Officer of International Organization for Migration (IOM)
 
James Emmanuel WANKI, Regional Political & Intergovernmental Affairs Advisor of UNFPA West & Central Africa Regional Office
12:15 - 12:25
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
12:25 - 12:40
Spotlight Address
 
Graham WALKER, Regional Director - Africa of Shield AI
12:40 - 14:00
Networking Lunch Break
14:00 - 15:00
Panel 6; Cyber Space and Digital Resilience: Protecting Critical Infrastructure in an Era of Hybrid Threats
Panel six addresses the growing cyber threats facing African states, from ransomware and cybercrime to state sponsored attacks and disinformation campaigns. Panellists explore national cyber strategies, CERT development, digital governance, and the protection of critical infrastructure. The discussion highlights the importance of lawful intelligence capabilities, digital investigations, and secure data environments, alongside public–private collaboration and regional cooperation to strengthen resilience.
 
Panel Chair: Lawrie ELDER, Regional BDM - MEA of SS8
 
ACP Chinedum ANIAGBOSO, Head: E-Recruitment & Data-Base Centre (ERDC) of Department of Training and Development, Nigeria Police Force
 
Colonel Major Mohammed BADAOUI, Defence Security Office of Moroccan Royal Armed Forces (FAR)
 
Theophilus BOTCHWAY, Principal Manager - Law Enforcement Liaison Unit of Ghana Cyber Security Authority (CSA)
 
Nonofo DICHABE, Deputy Director of Botswana Police Service
 
Col Patrick NYIRISHEMA, Head of Defence Research & Development of Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) / MoD
14:50 - 15:00
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
15:00 - 15:30
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
15:30 - 18:00
ASEC Public-Private Sector 1-2-1 Matchmaking Meetings
Afternoon session dedicated to structured 15‑minute 1‑2‑1 matchmaking meetings connecting government representatives from defence, interior, police, border agencies, and regional task forces, U.S., United Nations, NGO stakeholders, with attending local, regional, and global solution providers. These pre‑arranged schedules create a focused environment for meaningful introductions, technical exchanges, and early‑stage collaboration. The sessions offer a unique opportunity to explore practical capabilities, discuss operational needs, and identify scalable solutions that can strengthen peacekeeping, security operations, and resilience efforts across the continent.
19:00 - 22:00
Event Dinner - Labadi Beach
ASEC2026 attendees are invited to join us for an informal Event Dinner, at the Hotel's Labadi Beach, to experience the food, ambience and entertainment Accra has to offer. A relaxed evening of further networking and discussion whilst enjoying refreshments and great food! For more information, please contact a member of the ASEC team.
Thursday 09 July
Operational Readiness, Inclusion & Crisis Preparedness - Omanye Ballroom
8:30 - 9:00
Networking Registration
If not already done so, ASEC2026 attendees may complete registration by collecting their delegate pack & event access pass (business card required) whilst networking and enjoying tea & coffee.
9:00 - 9:10
Day Three Welcome Remarks
 
Emmanuel Wekem KOTIA PhD, Retired Major General of Ghana Armed Forces and ASEC2026 CHAIR
9:10 - 9:20
Keynote Address
 
Lieutenant-General Peter SCOTT, Deputy Commander
NATO's Allied Joint Force Command Naples
9:20 - 10:20
Panel 7; Aviation Platforms for National Security, Border Protection & Crisis Response
Modern security operations increasingly rely on versatile aviation platforms capable of supporting surveillance, interdiction, border protection and rapid crisis response. Panel seven examines how fixed‑wing aircraft are being deployed across Africa to enhance situational awareness, strengthen multi‑agency operations, support counter‑trafficking efforts and provide critical capabilities during emergencies. With growing demand for cost‑effective, rugged and mission‑adaptable platforms, the discussion explores how governments and industry can work together to expand aerial capacity, integrate ISR capabilities and improve operational readiness across national‑security, policing and disaster‑response missions.
 
Panel Chair: Colonel (Ret.) Tom MENKER, Business Development Rep. of Air Tractor, Inc.
 
AVM Francis EDOSA, Chief of Defence Policy & Plans (DDPP) of Nigeria Defence Headquarters
 
Sameh RAZOUAN Ep ISSAOUI, Commander - El Aouina Air Force Base of Tunisian Air Force (TAF)
 
Representative TBC Invited - TBC of Ghana Air Force
10:10 - 10:20
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
10:20 - 10:35
Spotlight Address
10:35 - 11:15
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
11:15 - 11:30
Spotlight Address
11:30 - 12:30
Panel 8; Inclusive Security Leadership: Advancing Women, Youth, and Under-represented Groups in Peace and Security Operations
Panel eight explores how inclusion strengthens operational effectiveness, legitimacy, and long‑term stability. Panellists discuss the Women, Peace and Security agenda, youth leadership pathways, and institutional reforms that promote diversity in defence, policing, and peace operations. The conversation highlights the importance of mentorship, training, and organisational culture in creating more representative and resilient security institutions.
 
Panel Chair: Sameh RAZOUAN Ep ISSAOUI, Commander - El Aouina Air Force Base of Tunisian Air Force (TAF)
 
Daniel Kofi ABU, Programme Specialist - Climate Change & Urban Resilience of UN-Habitat
 
Ferdinand NJIKE FEUKEU, Regional Security Director West & Central Africa of World Vision International (WVI)
 
H.E. Josephine NKRUMAH, Member of Gulf of Guinea Maritime Institute (GoGMI)
 
Sylvia Horname NOAGBESENU, Director of Policy Planning, Monitoring & Evaluation Department, Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Centre (KAIPTC)
12:20 - 12:30
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
12:30 - 14:00
Networking Lunch Break
14:00 - 15:00
Panel 9; Health Security and Cross-Border Crisis Preparedness: Strengthening Civil–Military Coordination for Future Emergencies
Concluding ASEC2026, panel nine examines the growing importance of health security and crisis preparedness in national and regional stability. Panellists explore epidemic response, emergency coordination, and the protection of critical infrastructure during complex crises. The discussion considers how integrated security systems, screening and monitoring technologies, and modern command and control platforms can enhance situational awareness, support rapid decision making, and strengthen cross border cooperation. Lessons from recent outbreaks and disasters will be highlighted, with emphasis on building resilient systems capable of supporting both humanitarian and security operations.
 
Panel Chair: Commissioner Hassana MSABOUE, Commander - General Service & Support Group of National Security Directorate (DGSN), Mauritania National Police
 
Dr. Adam Adamu Alhassan BONAA, Executive Secretary of Ghana National Commission on Small Arms & Light Weapons (NACSA)
 
Dominic GODANA, Country Director - Kenya of PanAfricare
 
Daher MERANEH, Head of Peace Operations Department of EASF - Eastern Africa Standby Force
 
Alain Adonis RAFALIMANANA, Regional Director of Public Security of Madagascar National Police; Ministry of Public Security
14:50 - 15:00
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
15:00 - 15:15
Recognition & Thanks
 
Emmanuel Wekem KOTIA PhD, Retired Major General of Ghana Armed Forces and ASEC2026 CHAIR
 
Andrew DOWELL, Managing Director of PNYX
15:15 - 15:45
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
15:45 - 18:15
ASEC Public-Private Sector 1-2-1 Matchmaking Meetings
Afternoon session dedicated to structured 15‑minute 1‑2‑1 matchmaking meetings connecting government representatives from defence, interior, police, border agencies, and regional task forces, U.S., United Nations, NGO stakeholders, with attending local, regional, and global solution providers. These pre‑arranged schedules create a focused environment for meaningful introductions, technical exchanges, and early‑stage collaboration. The sessions offer a unique opportunity to explore practical capabilities, discuss operational needs, and identify scalable solutions that can strengthen peacekeeping, security operations, and resilience efforts across the continent.