Kampala Geopolitics conference to address pressing regional challenges

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The Kampala Geopolitics Conference is set to convene its seventh edition, focusing on critical regional and global issues. The event, scheduled for October 23rd to 24th at Makerere University’s Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, will explore “The African Dimensions in International Debates.”

Organised by Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), Alliance Française Kampala, the French Embassy in Uganda, and Makerere University, the conference has emerged as a significant intellectual platform in Uganda. To solidify their partnership, the organizations recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding.

At the signing ceremony, French Ambassador Xavier Sticker emphasized the importance of human rights, war crimes, and international justice in the conference’s discussions.

“The Embassy as a principal partner, will significantly contribute to discussions on human rights, war crimes and international justice,” he said

Professor Buyinza Mukadasi from Makerere University highlighted the event’s potential to foster intercontinental dialogue on contemporary issues and contribute to shaping the global agenda.

Nils Wörmer, Director of the Regional Programme Security Dialogue for East Africa at Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, underscored the organization’s focus on pressing challenges such as the Sudanese conflict, regional terrorism, and jihadism.

Eric Touzé from Alliance Française Kampala reiterated the value of mutual dialogue and the conference’s alignment with their mission of cultivating knowledge through conflict resolution.

The Kampala Geopolitics Conference has established itself as a premier platform for thought- provoking discussions on global issues. Since its inception, it has consistently drawn a diverse array of experts, including local and international scholars, diplomats, journalists, and policymakers. Past editions have delved into critical topics such as climate change, digitalization, and global health crises, attracting high-level speakers who have enriched the discourse with their diverse perspectives.

Building on this legacy, the 2024 conference is poised to further elevate its focus on Africa’s pivotal role in shaping the global geopolitical landscape. While the official speaker lineup has yet to be announced, the organizers have hinted at an impressive roster that is sure to generate significant anticipation.

Key Topics to Be Discussed:

• Armed Conflicts and Peace Building: The panel will delve into the intersection of war crimes, gender-based violence, and justice in conflict zones. It will examine how international mechanisms, like the International Criminal Court (ICC), address such crimes, and how justice can be ensured for survivors in fragile environments.

• Oil’s Impact on Uganda’s Future: This session will explore the potential economic and geopolitical consequences of Uganda’s expanding oil sector. Key questions will revolve around transparency, governance, and the broader consequences of oil revenue on Uganda’s youth and democratic space.

• Jihadism, Global Networks, and the African State: The panel will focus on the failure of African states to effectively counter jihadist movements. It will explore how groups like Al-Shabaab and Boko Haram are exploiting regional instability and how shifting alliances are influencing counter-terrorism strategies.

• Sudan’s Conflict: A Bloody Stalemate? The ongoing Sudanese conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has created a severe humanitarian crisis. The panel will examine possible future scenarios for Sudan and Uganda’s role in fostering peace.