International Relations and Diplomacy Experts call for policy interventions anchored in research

Ms Elizabeth Mutunga, the COMESA Head of Governance, Peace and Security programme said policy and security interventions should be anchored in policy research.

“Whether it is conflict prevention, conflict management or post-conflict reconstruction, our programmes have mostly been guided by research,” said Ms Mutunga.

Ms Mutunga said it is time for actors to reassess interventions given the current global environment that has manifested in an increase of terrorism and violent extremism, a rise in unconstitutional changes of government and other expressions of competition.

“We must question if peace and security programmes are fit for purpose,” said Ms Mutunga during the international relations conference.

According to Mr.  Leonard Wanyama, the International Relations Society of Kenya (IRSK) Secretary and CEO, ‘IRSK serves as a forum for the exchange of ideas, networking and programmatic initiatives among those involved in the study, teaching and practice of international relations and diplomacy.’

Mr Wanyama said IRSK works to promote research, deeper understanding and collaboration amongst various stakeholders in the international affairs and foreign policy space.

Amb. Anthony Okara, ALMA special representative, also highlighted the twin dangers of climate crisis and nuclear war facing humankind.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Vasu Goundan, Executive Director, ACCORD, warned that time is running out for those in Africa due to the multiple (existential) crises happening at the same time.  

According to Dr. Goundan, artificial intelligence, climate change, infrastructure gaps and the youth bulge present both risks as well as opportunities for the continent.  

Dr. Kizito Sabala, the 2023 IRSK Conference Chair, stated that the IRSK Annual Conference will come up with modalities to bridge theory and practice in the international relations and diplomacy space.

“This annual event will provide a valuable platform for the exchange of knowledge, perspectives and insights among various stakeholders, with far-reaching implications for peace, security, stability and development of the region,”Dr. Sabala said.

The Conference was organized and sponsored by COMESA, ACCORD and IRSK.

Key speakers included Ambassador Erastus Mwencha, Chairman, Africa Capacity Building Foundation, H.E. Anthony Okara, Special Ambassador, African Leaders Malaria Alliance, H.E. Ms. Rose Makena, Permanent Representative of Kenya to the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) and UNEP, H.E. Ms. Caroline Vicini, Ambassador of Sweden to Kenya, Dr. Vasu Gounden, the Executive Director, ACCORD, Ms. Betty Sungura-Nyabuto, CEO of National Gender and Equality Commission, and Prof. Peter Kagwanja, President of Africa.