Accra, Ghana (March 14, 2025) – The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) has taken a significant step forward in its commitment to gender equality with the launch of its revised Gender Policy.
Spearheaded through the Women, Youth, Peace, and Security Institute (WYPSI), the policy aligns with KAIPTC’s Strategic Objectives Plan (2024-2028) and reinforces the Centre’s dedication to fostering inclusivity and advancing social equity.
A decade after unveiling its first Gender Policy, KAIPTC continues to evolve in response to emerging challenges and opportunities in peace and security. The revised policy integrates gender considerations across all strategic objectives, with a strong emphasis on empowering women and youth to drive peace, stability, and development.
A Milestone for Gender Mainstreaming
Speaking at the launch event held at the Centre in Accra, KAIPTC Commandant, Major General Richard Addo Gyane, emphasized the significance of the moment, coinciding with the Centre’s celebration of International Women’s Day 2025, under the theme “Accelerate Action.” He underscored the urgency of moving beyond discussions to tangible implementation.
“Gender equality is not just a policy; it is a commitment, a responsibility, and a necessity for sustainable progress,” Major General Gyane stated. “At KAIPTC, we are embedding gender mainstreaming across our training, research, and operational frameworks to ensure lasting change.”
As part of its strengthened approach, KAIPTC has appointed Gender Focal Persons across various departments, equipping them with the tools to integrate gender perspectives into policy-making, training, and research.
Building on a Decade of Progress
Reflecting on KAIPTC’s gender mainstreaming journey, Major General Gyane highlighted the impact of the initial Gender Policy launched ten years ago. The policy has influenced the Centre’s operations, shaping programs that promote gender equality in peacekeeping and security governance.
“The review of our policy has given us a clearer understanding of our successes and areas that need further attention,” he noted. “This revised agenda is a direct response to our commitment to continuous improvement and closing existing gender gaps.”
Developed in 2024, the revised policy strengthens KAIPTC’s capacity to champion gender equity as a core pillar of its strategic direction. With gender mainstreaming now embedded across all aspects of the Centre’s work, KAIPTC is positioning itself as a leader in driving systemic change.
Strategic Partnerships and Capacity Building
A key enabler of this initiative has been the support of the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), which has provided crucial funding. Major General Gyane expressed deep appreciation for SIDA’s unwavering commitment to advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment, describing their contribution as instrumental in making the policy a reality.
To reinforce its gender-focused agenda, KAIPTC recently organized a two-week Gender Mainstreaming Training for selected staff. Conducted in two phases, the training equipped participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to integrate gender perspectives effectively into their respective roles.
Beyond Policy: A Call to Action
The launch of KAIPTC’s revised Gender Policy is more than a formal commitment—it is a call to accelerate action for real change. By embedding gender equality in its structures, training, and partnerships, KAIPTC is setting a powerful precedent for peacekeeping institutions across Africa.
As the Centre moves forward, its renewed Gender Policy is poised to shape a more inclusive and equitable future, ensuring that gender considerations remain at the heart of peace and security efforts.
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