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ASEC2025 Agenda
Monday 09 June
Ethiopian Skylight Hotel
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ASEC2025 Overview
The Africa Security Symposium (ASEC2025) serves as a premier platform addressing critical security, peace, and development challenges across Africa. The 12th edition of ASEC will spotlight the pivotal role of public-private sector collaboration in fostering regional stability, advancing law enforcement, and enhancing military and peace support operations. Key topics include border security, counter-terrorism, logistics, and technology-driven solutions for effective governance.
 
Through a range of workshops, exhibition, high-level discussion panels, networking and 1-2-1 matchmaking meetings, and by uniting governments, international organisations, private enterprises, and civil society, the Africa Security Symposium seeks to drive actionable solutions to combat extremism, manage displacement, and promote sustainable development.
 
Welcome to the 12th Africa Security Symposium (ASEC2025); we are delighted Air Commodore David Anetey AKRONG, Ag. Commandant of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) will serve as our ASEC2025 Chairperson. Join us and help shape the future of security and peace across Africa through innovative partnerships.
13:00 - 19:00
Pre-event Registration (Abay Ballroom, Ground Floor)
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 afternoon workshops etc.
15:00 - 18:00
Defence Attachés' Workshop (Abay 1, Ground Floor)
Welcoming continent-wide Defence Attachés' from across Addis Ababa, ASEC2025’s Defence Attachés' Workshop explores the evolving role of Peace Support Operations in Africa, with a focus on the African Standby Force and the critical support needed from Member States. It will assess the implications of UNSCR 2719 on future missions and mandates. The session will also examine how Artificial Intelligence is reshaping conventional warfare, from strategy to combat execution. Finally, participants will analyse how global geopolitical and economic challenges are impacting African defence forces. Private sector delegates are invited for open discussion and Q&A, to share innovative solutions and technologies, designed to enhance operational effectiveness and resilience across these dynamic and interconnected areas.
 
Brig Gen Richard Edukwesi WOANYA, Defence Advisor of Embassy of the Republic of Ghana to Ethiopia & Perm. Mission to the AU & UNECA
19:00 - 21:00
Evening Networking Reception (Terrace Bar, Second Floor)
Attendees are invited to meet for an 'ice-breaker' Networking Reception 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 ASEC2025's Chairpersons.
Tuesday 10 June
Abay Ballroom, Ethiopian Skylight Hotel
8:00 - 8:50
Networking Registration
If not already done so, ASEC2025 attendees may complete registration by collecting their delegate pack & event access pass (business card required) whilst networking and enjoying tea & coffee.
8:50 - 9:10
Opening Ceremony
 
Andrew DOWELL, Managing Director of PNYX Ltd.
 
Air Cdre David Anetey AKRONG, Ag. Commandant
KAIPTC - Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre and ASEC2025 Conference Chair
9:10 - 9:20
Opening Keynote Address
 
H.E. Amb. Bankole ADEOYE, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace & Security (PAPS)
African Union Commission (AUC)
9:20 - 10:20
Panel 1: Border Security and Transnational Crime
ASEC2025’s opening panel explores critical challenges and opportunities in addressing border security and transnational crime across Africa's land, sea, and air domains. Key issues include balancing the need for secure borders with the imperative of facilitating free movement under the African Continental Free Trade Area. This discussion delves into combating human trafficking, drug smuggling, and illicit arms trade, emphasising the role of technology, intelligence sharing, and inter-agency cooperation. Panellists highlight innovative public-private sector partnerships and regional collaborations to enhance border management, safeguard communities, and disrupt criminal networks, promoting stability and development across the continent.
 
Panel Chair: Brig Gen (Ret.) Chris GILDENHUYS, Head of Business Development of OTT Technologies (Pty) Ltd.
 
Africa APOLLO, Head Reg. Bureau Nairobi and CEO of EAPCCO of INTERPOL Regional Bureau for Eastern Africa
 
Bruno Isohi SHIOSO, Director General of Kenya Coast Guard Service (KCGS)
 
Maj Gen Godwin Michael MUTKUT, Force Commander of Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF)
 
Dr. Moses Thabo Katjisa NKHOMA, Deputy Assistant Commissioner of BMA - Border Management Authority of South Africa
10:10 - 10:20
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
10:20 - 10:50
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
10:50 - 11:00
Keynote Address
 
Maj Gen Mohsen Salem Askar SALEH, Military Advisor to the President of the STC
Yemen Southern Transitional Council (STC)
11:00 - 12:00
Panel 2: Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism
Panel two explores comprehensive approaches to counter terrorism and violent extremism across Africa, underlining multi-stakeholder collaboration. Discussions focus on government-led strategies, regional security cooperation, and community-driven initiatives addressing root causes like socioeconomic disparities and political instability. Panellists examine the role of education, youth engagement, and economic empowerment in prevention efforts, while also highlighting the importance of countering extremist narratives. This session aims to identify sustainable solutions to bolster Africa's peace and security, affirming the need to foster partnerships between governments, civil society, and the private sector to enhance intelligence sharing, infrastructure resilience, and inclusive development.
 
Panel Chair: Dr. Dario LUINETTI, Director of SIO SpA - SIO Intelligence Operations
 
Maj Gen Gold Uhuoma CHIBUISI, Chief of Civil Military Affairs of Nigerian Army; Nigeria Armed Forces
 
Maj Gen Keith KATUNGI KUKUNDA, Commander 5 Infantry Division of Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF)
 
Leonardo Santos SIMÃO, SRSG (Sp. Representative for West Africa & the Sahel) of CNMC | Cameroon-Nigeria Mixed Commission, UNOWAS - UN Office for West Africa & the Sahel
 
Osita NWANKWO, Country Security Manager of World Vision Ethiopia
11:50 - 12:00
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
12:00 - 12:25
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
12:25 - 12:30
Keynote Address
 
Mark HAWKINS, Senior Humanitarian Technology Advisor
IEC Telecom Group
12:30 - 13:30
Panel 3: Policing and Law Enforcement Reform
Concluding day one’s discussions, panel three explores critical issues and strategies for policing and law enforcement reform across Africa. A focus will be placed on the integration of technology to modernise police operations, improve data management, and enhance surveillance capabilities. Key topics include the need for capacity building in under-resourced regions and remote areas, ensuring effective policing despite logistical challenges. Emphasis will also be placed on advancing cross-border intelligence sharing and regional cooperation to combat transnational crime and terrorism. Panellists discuss how reforms can promote accountability, human rights, and community trust while enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of law enforcement agencies across Africa.
 
Panel Chair: Lorenzo GIOMBINI, Managing Director of Rakia
 
Chief Police Comm. Alain Adonis RAFALIMANANA, Director of Madagascar National Police; Ministry of Public Security
 
COP Dr. Sayibu GARIBA, Director-General - Technical of Ghana Police Service
 
Comm. Teopolina KALOMPO, Head - Crime Prevention Directorate of Namibia Police Force (NAMPOL)
13:20 - 13:30
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
13:30 - 14:30
Networking Lunch Break
14:30 - 17:00
ASEC Public-Private Sector 1-2-1 Matchmaking Meetings
Afternoon session dedicated to introductory 15-minute 1-2-1 matchmaking meetings between Government (defence, interior & police), U.S., United Nations & NGO stakeholders, and attending local, regional and global solution providers. Schedules are prearranged to provide a unique networking opportunity to further sustainable peacekeeping and security efforts across the continent.
Wednesday 11 June
Abay Ballroom, Ethiopian Skylight Hotel
8:30 - 9:00
Networking Registration
If not already done so, ASEC2025 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 Welcoming Remarks
 
Air Cdre David Anetey AKRONG, Ag. Commandant
KAIPTC - Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre and ASEC2025 Conference Chair
9:10 - 9:20
Keynote Address
 
Leonardo Santos SIMÃO, SRSG (Sp. Representative for West Africa & the Sahel)
CNMC | Cameroon-Nigeria Mixed Commission, UNOWAS - UN Office for West Africa & the Sahel
9:20 - 10:20
Panel 4: Advancing Peace Support Operations in Africa
Day two begins with panel four, exploring critical aspects of enhancing Peace Support Operations (PSOs) in Africa, accentuating sustainable strategies for capacity building, fostering collaboration with local communities, and leveraging public-private partnerships. Key issues include strengthening regional peacekeeping capabilities, addressing resource and logistical constraints, and ensuring inclusivity in mission planning and execution. Panellists demonstrate how local engagement can enhance operational effectiveness and explore innovative financing models to support long-term peace initiatives. By fostering dialogue among stakeholders, this session aims to identify actionable steps to strengthen Africa’s ability to respond to evolving security challenges and promote enduring stability across the continent.
 
Panel Chair: Aisha O'REILLY, North Africa Project Manager, Weapons & Ammunition Management of The HALO Trust
 
LTCol Andre SCHOOFS, Senior Military Advisor for Peace & Security of EU Delegation to the AU
 
Guy BENNETT, Chief of Political Affairs of UNMISS - UN Mission in South Sudan
 
Brig Gen (Rtd) Paul Kahuria NJEMA, Director of EASF - Eastern Africa Standby Force
 
Brig. Gen. Telenkako BANDA, Commandant of Kenneth Kaunda Peace Training Centre (KKPTC), Zambia Army
10:10 - 10:20
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
10:20 - 10:50
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
10:50 - 11:00
Keynote Address
 
Rachel EKLOU-ASSOGBAVI, Political Advisor
Department of Peace Operations, UN Office of Military Affairs (OMA)
11:00 - 11:05
Video - WFP Innovation Hub for Eastern Africa
11:05 - 12:05
Panel 5: Displacement, Migration, and Humanitarian Crises
Panel five will explores the complex interplay of displacement, migration, and humanitarian crises in Africa, focusing on their implications for regional stability and security. Key issues include the drivers of forced displacement, such as conflict, climate change, and economic hardship, and their cascading impact on host communities, infrastructure, and governance. Discussions highlight strategies for safeguarding vulnerable populations, strengthening border management, and mitigating risks of trafficking and extremism. Panellists underscore collaborative solutions, including regional frameworks, international partnerships, and capacity-building initiatives, to address immediate needs while fostering long-term resilience and sustainable development in affected areas.
 
Panel Chair: Peter WOOD, Chief Regional Security Officer of African Development Bank (AFDB)
 
Dr. Hameed NURU, Director and Representative to the AU and ECA of WFP - UN World Food Programme
 
Hillary Muchiri KIBORO, Deputy Head of Delegation to the AU & Legal Advisor of ICRC - International Committee of the Red Cross
 
Margaret Ann ATIENO, Deputy Representative of UNHCR - UN Refugee Agency
 
Sascha NLABU, Deputy Head of Mission of IOM - International Organization of Migration
11:55 - 12:05
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
12:05 - 12:30
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
12:30 - 13:30
Panel 6: Health Security
Day two’s discussions at ASEC2025 conclude with panel six, exploring Health Security in Africa, addressing critical challenges such as the vulnerability of marginalised communities, ethnic disparities, and the impact of ongoing conflicts on healthcare access. Focus areas include strengthening health systems, addressing infectious diseases, and improving healthcare infrastructure, especially in conflict zones. Panellists discuss community-driven solutions to enhance local resilience, the importance of including vulnerable groups such as women and children, and how ethnic tensions can affect healthcare delivery. Additionally, public-private partnerships are examined as a key strategy to mobilise resources, technology, and innovation to improve health security across the continent.
 
Panel Chair: Dr. Nate WOODS, Customer Support Director of GE Aerospace
 
Dr. Ahmed OGWELL, CEO & President of VillageReach
 
Dr. Patrick ABOK, Team Lead, Health Emergency Programme - Ethiopia Country Office of WHO - World Health Organisation
 
Rachel EKLOU-ASSOGBAVI, Political Advisor of Department of Peace Operations, UN Office of Military Affairs (OMA)
13:20 - 13:30
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
13:30 - 14:30
Networking Lunch Break
14:30 - 17:00
ASEC Public-Private Sector 1-2-1 Matchmaking Meetings
Afternoon session dedicated to introductory 15-minute 1-2-1 matchmaking meetings between Government (defence, interior & police), U.S., United Nations & NGO stakeholders, and attending local, regional and global solution providers. Schedules are prearranged to provide a unique networking opportunity to further sustainable peacekeeping and security efforts across the continent.
19:00 - 22:00
Event Dinner - ADD Restaurant, Ethiopian Skylight Hotel
ASEC2025 attendees are invited to join us for an informal Event Dinner, to experience the food, ambience and entertainment Addis Ababa 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 PNYX team.
Thursday 12 June
Abay Ballroom, Ethiopian Skylight Hotel
8:30 - 9:00
Networking Registration
If not already done so, ASEC2025 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 Welcoming Remarks
 
Air Cdre David Anetey AKRONG, Ag. Commandant
KAIPTC - Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre and ASEC2025 Conference Chair
9:10 - 9:20
Keynote Address
 
Mark HAWKINS, Senior Humanitarian Technology Advisor
IEC Telecom Group
9:20 - 10:40
Panel 7: Cybersecurity and Digital Threats
Day three of ASEC2025 begins with panel seven’s discussion on Cybersecurity and Digital Threats in Africa, addressing the ever-growing challenges posed by cybercrime, data breaches, and digital vulnerabilities across the continent. Key issues include securing critical infrastructure, protecting personal and financial data, and enhancing the reliability and safety of digital systems. Panellists explore private sector solutions, emphasising the role of businesses in safeguarding digital assets through innovation and collaboration. Focus areas include the adoption of alternative technologies like blockchain and AI, alongside the cost implications for both public and private sectors in strengthening cybersecurity measures and responding to evolving digital threats.
 
Panel Chair: Yoram ZOHAR, Vice President - International Sales of Vehere Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
 
Dr. Emmanuel MANASSEH, Regional Director of ITU Regional Office for Africa
 
Mark HAWKINS, Senior Humanitarian Technology Advisor of IEC Telecom Group
 
Precious TLHABIWA, Special Representative of INTERPOL to AU of INTERPOL SIRAU
 
Shema AKILIMALI, Division Manager Cybercrime Investigation of Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB)
 
Maj Gen Stephen James MUTUKU, Dep. Commandant - National Defence College of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF)
10:30 - 10:40
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
10:40 - 11:10
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
11:10 - 11:20
Keynote Address
 
On Behalf Of: Dr. Ahmed Abubakar AUDI, mni, Commandant General
ACG Muktar LAWAL, mni, Assistant Commandant General (ACG)
Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
11:20 - 12:20
Panel 8: Logistics and Supply Chain Security
Panel eight explores the critical role of logistics and supply chain security in Africa, focusing on key challenges such as infrastructure gaps, geopolitical instability, and the rise of criminal networks. Panellists discuss how these issues affect the region’s ability to manage the movement of goods and services efficiently, particularly in conflict zones and remote areas. Emphasis will once again be placed on the importance of public-private partnerships to enhance efficiency, innovation, and resilience. Collaboration between governments, international organisations, and the private sector can help secure supply chains, streamline operations, and foster regional economic integration while addressing security risks and vulnerabilities.
 
Panel Chair: Neil DURSLEY, COO of Global Critical Logistics Humanitarian & Government Division of Global Critical Logistic
 
Dr. Ahmed OGWELL, CEO & President of VillageReach
 
Gen. Jaime Manuel Pombo VILINGA, Chief of the General Staff and Deputy for Operational & Development Area of Angolan Armed Forces
 
Brig. Gen. Lekhooa MATLALI, Assistant Chief of Staff, Logistics Command & Support Service of Lesotho Defence Force (LDF)
12:10 - 12:20
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
12:20 - 12:40
Recognition & Thanks
 
Air Cdre David Anetey AKRONG, Ag. Commandant
KAIPTC - Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre and ASEC2025 Conference Chair
 
Andrew DOWELL, Managing Director of PNYX Ltd.
12:40 - 14:00
Networking Lunch Break
14:00 - 16:30
ASEC Public-Private Sector 1-2-1 Matchmaking Meetings
Afternoon session dedicated to introductory 15-minute 1-2-1 matchmaking meetings between Government (defence, interior & police), U.S., United Nations & NGO stakeholders, and attending local, regional and global solution providers. Schedules are prearranged to provide a unique networking opportunity to further sustainable peacekeeping and security efforts across the continent.