In a pivotal visit to Japan, a delegation from the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), led by Commandant Maj Gen Richard Addo Gyane, sought to bolster ties with the Japanese government and influential institutions in Tokyo. This visit is strategically aimed at reinforcing collaboration in tackling pressing security issues facing Africa.
The KAIPTC delegation, which included Ms. Horname Noagbesenu, Director, Policy, Plans, Monitoring & Evaluation, and Dr. John Pokoo, Programme Head, Conflict Management Programme, engaged with Japanese officials in a series of discussions, expressing gratitude for Japan’s support through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Japan’s contributions have been instrumental in KAIPTC’s initiatives addressing small arms control, counter-terrorism, violent extremism, and peacebuilding efforts. Looking to the future, the delegation and Japanese counterparts explored new collaborative opportunities in women, youth, peace, and security – fields where both nations share common goals and can foster impactful change.
During their visit, KAIPTC representatives held productive discussions with Japan’s Peacekeeping Training and Research Centre. The institutions identified shared priorities, including the exchange of instructors and expertise to deepen both countries’ knowledge and approach to global peace and security challenges. The delegation also engaged the National Defence Academy, where Maj Gen Addo Gyane delivered a comprehensive presentation on counter-terrorism in West Africa. This session ignited meaningful dialogue with the Academy’s faculty and cadets, emphasizing the shared commitment to countering violent extremism in Africa.
KAIPTC’s delegation further met with Japan’s International Peace Cooperation Headquarters, joined by representatives from UNDP and the Ghana Embassy. Together, they examined approaches to strengthen partnerships in countering violent extremism and implementing key United Nations Security Council Resolutions on Women, Peace, and Security (UNSCR 1325) and Youth, Peace, and Security (UNSCR 2250). These discussions highlighted Japan’s commitment to enhancing regional security and localizing global peace frameworks.
As the delegation concluded its visit, a final meeting with the Director General of the Africa Division at Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs underscored the strong partnership between KAIPTC and Japan. Conversations focused on KAIPTC’s 2024–2028 strategic plan and its key thematic areas, reaffirming both countries’ dedication to fostering peace and security in Africa.
The delegation also paid a courtesy call on Ghana’s Ambassador to Japan, H.E. Genevieve Apaloo. In a warm exchange, Ambassador Apaloo and her team pledged their continued support to KAIPTC’s mission, reinforcing Ghana’s diplomatic commitment to promoting the center’s mandate in Japan. The visit to Japan reflects a significant milestone in KAIPTC’s ongoing mission to expand its global partnerships. The outcomes are expected to open doors to robust collaborations, support Africa’s security landscape, and contribute to a more stable future for the region.