Addis Ababa, October 15, 2024 (FBC) – The inaugural African Defense Ministers’ conference, dedicated to reinforcing peace, security, and unity across the continent, has commenced at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum in Addis Ababa this morning.
The Conference is set to be held from 15 to 17 October 2024 under a theme “Africa: United in Peace, Strong in Security”.
The opening session was attended by Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Temesgen Truneh, former Prime Minister of Ethiopia Mr. Haile-Mariam Desalegn, Ethiopia’s Defense Minister Ms. Aisha Mohamed, African defense ministers, defense attachés based in Ethiopia, military research experts, as well as high-ranking government officials and military officers.
It is learned that the conference centers on enhancing continental security frameworks and bolstering military cooperation among African nations. With an emphasis on the need for collective consultation and solutions to address the continent’s current challenges, Ethiopia has convened this conference to facilitate such discussions.
Discussions at the conference will also include critical topics such as combating terrorism, addressing collective security concerns, and cultivating partnerships within the defense industry by drawing insights from countries with more advanced experiences.
The conference is also expected to underscore Africa’s pivotal role in fostering global peace, alongside the continent’s initiatives to enhance cooperation in humanitarian assistance and disaster response.
A significant focus will be placed on capacity building within defense sectors through training, technology transfer, and the exchange of knowledge, according to a recent statement from Ethiopia’s Defense Minister Ms. Aisha Mohammed.`
Prominent experts are scheduled to present comprehensive research findings that could influence Africa’s future defense strategies.
Additionally, the conference will explore Africa’s military evolution from past to present, examining the continent’s contributions to peacekeeping and the challenges arising from cybersecurity and contemporary military collaborations. Complementing the discussions, exhibitions, documentary screenings, and visits are planned as integral components of the event.
According to Minister Aisha, the conference aims to articulate a future vision for peace, stability, and development in Africa, while fostering collaboration to tackle shared security challenges.