(Accra: 10th March, 2025) The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) has launched its latest Election Observation Training program, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening democratic processes across Africa.
The initiative provides participants with essential skills and knowledge to effectively observe and assess electoral processes, ensuring transparency, fairness, and credibility in elections.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Deputy Commandant of KAIPTC, Air Commodore David Anetey Akrong, highlighted the growing significance of election observation in promoting democratic governance. He acknowledged that while Africa has witnessed a rise in free and fair elections over the past two decades, challenges persist.
“At the heart of democracy lies the electoral process—free and fair elections are essential for good governance and the cultivation of peace in societies,” he emphasized.
The training program comes at a crucial time, with numerous elections scheduled across the continent this year. In some countries, these elections will reaffirm democratic values, while in others, they will serve as an opportunity for renewal and reform. Recognizing the pivotal role of election observers in this process, KAIPTC is dedicated to equipping individuals with the expertise needed to assess electoral conduct, identify weaknesses, and recommend improvements.
Observers play a crucial role in safeguarding civil and political rights, deterring electoral fraud, and enhancing public trust in election outcomes. Their impartial assessments contribute to preventing post-election disputes and reinforcing the legitimacy of elected governments. The Deputy Commandant noted that despite progress, some elections in Africa continue to be marred by controversies, disputes, and, in extreme cases, violence. Well-trained observers, he stressed, are essential in addressing these challenges.
A key enabler of the training program is the Government of Norway, whose core funding has been instrumental in sustaining KAIPTC’s capacity-building efforts. The Deputy Commandant expressed gratitude for this support, recognizing Norway’s role in fostering democratic governance in Africa.
As a Regional Training Centre of Excellence, KAIPTC remains at the forefront of electoral capacity building, equipping observers from across the continent with the analytical and technical skills required for impartial election assessment. Through this initiative, the Centre is developing a pool of professionals who will not only contribute to improving electoral standards but also help consolidate peace and stability through democratic processes.
With Africa’s electoral landscape evolving, KAIPTC’s training program stands as a pillar of support in the quest for credible, transparent, and peaceful elections—ensuring that democracy continues to thrive across the continent.
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