Accra, Ghana – June 15, 2026 –The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre in partnership with the Austrian Federal Ministry of Defence, officially opened the 2026 Political Advisor Course for Peace Support Operations in Africa. The programme brought together 20 participants from West African countries to strengthen political advisory capacities in support of peace and security efforts across the continent.
Delivering the welcome remarks, the Commandant of KAIPTC, Air Vice Marshal David Anetey Akrong, highlighted the complex security challenges confronting Africa, including violent extremism, transnational crime, political instability and humanitarian pressures. He emphasized the critical role of Political Advisors in providing strategic analysis, mediation and stakeholder engagement to support informed decision-making in peace support operations.
He said, “Peace remains the foundation upon which security, prosperity, and development are built. It is therefore essential that we continue to invest in the people and institutions capable of preventing conflict and promoting stability across Africa.”
The Counsellor at the Austrian Federal Ministry of Defence, Counsellor Günther Barnet underscored the growing importance of effective political advice amid evolving regional and global security dynamics. He highlighted that sound political analysis and context-sensitive advice are essential to supporting leaders in making decisions that contribute to peace and stability.
He further noted that recent developments in the Sahel and beyond have shown that security challenges are becoming increasingly complex, with insurgent groups and organized crime expanding their influence. Citing Italian philosopher Antonio Gramsci’s observation that “the old world is dying and the new one struggles to be born,” he stressed that these uncertain times call for effective political advice. He emphasized that sound political advising goes beyond technical skills and tools; it requires understanding political realities and providing timely, context-sensitive guidance that can help leaders make informed decisions and contribute to peace and stability.