EASF Director Participates in Joint Planning Retreat for EU Support Programme

Brig (Rtd) Paul Kahuria Njema, the Director of the Eastern Africa Standby Force, was a key participant in a joint planning retreat held in Nairobi, Kenya, from June 11th to 12th, 2024.

During the event, Brig(Rtd) Njema delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the unwavering commitment of EASF and other Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and Regional Mechanisms (RMs) to aligning their activities with the strategic objectives of the programmes. He emphasized that despite facing various challenges and complexities, these organizations have remained dedicated to their mission.

The EU-APSA Programme, which was a focal point of the discussions, aims to support the efforts of the African Union Commission (AUC), RECs, and RMs in achieving three key strategic objectives. These include managing the conflict cycle, focusing on Early Warning Systems and the African Standby Force; enhancing coordination and partnerships within the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA), including with Civil Society Organizations; and promoting the engagement and inclusion of youth and children in APSA initiatives.

The retreat provided a platform for key stakeholders to strategize and align their efforts in advancing peace and security in the region, demonstrating a collaborative approach to addressing complex challenges.