PNYX - Africa Security Symposium 2026

Draft Agenda “Strengthening African Security Through Innovation & Inclusion”

.

ASEC2026 Overview
The 13th Africa Security Symposium (ASEC2026), held in cooperation 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 Rule, 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.

12:00 - 19:00

Pre-Event Registration
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.

13:00 - 16:00

Site-Visit TBC

16:30 - 18:30

Defence Attachés' Workshop
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
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 ASEC2026's Panel Chairs.

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
Welcoming Remarks from ASEC, Exclusive Event Sponsor, Government of Ghana, and our 2026 Chairperson, Emmanuel Wekem KOTIA PhD, Retired Major General of the Ghana Armed Forces.

9:10 - 9:20

Opening Keynote Address
The African Union Commission’s Political Affairs, Peace & Security Department (PAPS)

9:20 - 10:20

Panel 1; Strengthening African-Led Security Frameworks: Regional Cooperation, Innovation, and Strategic Readiness
ASEC2026's opening session explores how African led mechanisms can drive more coherent, responsive, and sustainable security 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, data driven decision making, and inclusive governance can enhance readiness and reduce reliance on external actors. The session also highlights opportunities for African industry, research institutions, and public–private collaboration to contribute to long term resilience and strategic autonomy.

Panel Chair: TBC

10:10 - 10:20

Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session

10:20 - 10:50

Networking Tea & Coffee Break

10:50 - 11:00

Keynote Address

11:00 - 12:00

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: DF Systems FZ LLC

11:50 - 12:00

Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session

12:00 - 12:30

Networking Tea & Coffee Break

12:30 - 13:30

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: Rakia Coding & Machine Learning

13:20 - 13:30

Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session

13:30 - 15:00

Networking Lunch Break

15:00 - 17:30

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.

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
ASEC2026 Chairperson, Emmanuel Wekem KOTIA PhD, Retired Major General of the Ghana Armed Forces.

9:10 - 9:20

Keynote Address

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: DCD Protected Mobility

10:10 - 10:20

Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session

10:20 - 10:50

Networking Tea & Coffee Break

10:50 - 11:00

Keynote Address

11:00 - 12:00

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. Panel five explores the intersection of climate shocks, resource scarcity, and humanitarian needs, with a focus on early warning, resilience planning, and cross border coordination. Panellists examine how governments, humanitarian actors, and local communities can work together to mitigate risks and respond more effectively to disasters. The discussion also considers the role of aerial assessment tools, remote sensing, and data driven planning in improving preparedness.

Panel Chair: TBC

11:50 - 12:00

Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session

12:00 - 12:30

Networking Tea & Coffee Break

12:30 - 13:30

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: SS8

13:20 - 13:30

Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session

13:30 - 15:00

Networking Lunch Break

15:00 - 17:30

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
ASEC2026 attendees are invited to join us for an informal Event Dinner, 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.

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
ASEC2026 Chairperson, Emmanuel Wekem KOTIA PhD, Retired Major General of the Ghana Armed Forces.

9:10 - 9:20

Keynote Address

9:20 - 10:20

Panel 7; Logistics, Mobility, and Medical Preparedness: Building Reliable Support Systems for Peace and Security Operations
Effective logistics and mobility are essential for mission success yet remain persistent challenges across many African operations. Panel seven examines supply chain resilience, air/land/sea mobility, maintenance systems, and medical readiness. Panellists explore how multi mission aircraft, unmanned delivery systems, and specialised mobility platforms can strengthen operational support, medevac, and last mile delivery in remote or insecure environments. The discussion also highlights the importance of regional logistics hubs, interoperable systems, and partnerships that enhance sustainability and reduce dependency on external support.

Panel Chair: Air Tractor, Inc.

10:10 - 10:20

Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session

10:20 - 10:45

Networking Tea & Coffee Break

10:45 - 11:45

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: TBC

11:35 - 11:45

Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session

11:45 - 12:10

Networking Tea & Coffee Break

12:10 - 13:10

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 in national and regional stability. Panellists will explore epidemic preparedness, emergency coordination, field medical systems, and the role of civil–military cooperation in crisis response. The discussion highlights lessons from recent outbreaks and disasters, emphasising the need for integrated planning, rapid information sharing, and resilient health systems capable of supporting both humanitarian and security operations. The role of aerial platforms and unmanned systems in rapid assessment and medical delivery may also be considered.

Panel Chair: TBC

13:00 - 13:10

Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session

13:10 - 13:30

Recognition & Thanks
Recognition and Thanks from ASEC, Exclusive Event Sponsor, Government of Ghana, and our 2026 Chairperson, Emmanuel Wekem KOTIA PhD, Retired Major General of the Ghana Armed Forces.

13:30 - 15:00

Networking Lunch Break

15:00 - 17:30

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.