International Relations Society of Kenya

⏳ The countdown to the 2026 COMESA–IRSK Annual Conference is on!

From 12–13 November 2026, policymakers, diplomats, scholars and researchers will convene in Nairobi to examine how Africa’s regional and continental institutions can respond to emerging challenges and advance regional cooperation.

📅 12–13 November 2026
📍 Nairobi, Kenya
🔗 Register today: events.gig.co.ke/event/gev_2070…

Session Six of the 4th #COMESAIRSK2026 Annual Conference explored the state of peace and security in the EAC and COMESA regions.

Moderated by Charity Mwathi, the discussion brought together Arinola Omolo, Country Manager at the Institute for Economics and Peace; Dr. Oita Etyang, Head of the Governance, Peace and Security Unit at COMESA; Irene Ogaja, Conflict Analyst at the Eastern Africa Standby Force; Tatenda Mapiro, Programme Officer at COMESA’s Peace and Security; and Nouran Abadi, Junior Expert at COMESA’s Peace and Security, to examine regional stability, the relationship between positive peace and trade growth, and cross-border security challenges.

The conversation underscored the importance of regional cooperation in advancing Africa’s peace, resilience, and integration.

@COMESA_HQ

#COMESAIRSK2026 #COMESA #IRSK

The conversations continue as we enter Day Two of the 4th #COMESAIRSK2026 Annual Conference, with a renewed focus on the institutions, partnerships and collective efforts shaping Africa’s future.

Building on the discussions of Day One, today's programme will turn attention to critical questions surrounding peace and security, alongside the role of anti-corruption authorities in combating illicit financial flows and strengthening asset recovery frameworks across the continent.

As Africa navigates an increasingly complex global landscape, these conversations remain central to strengthening institutional accountability, safeguarding resources and advancing sustainable peace and resilience.

The afternoon will also feature the Diplomatic Awards, recognising distinguished contributions to diplomacy and the advancement of international relations.

From critical policy conversations to the recognition of diplomatic excellence. Day Two promises further opportunities for reflection, engagement and meaningful exchange.

Stay with us as we continue shaping conversations on Africa’s peace, resilience and transformation.

#COMESAIRSK2026 #IRSK #AfricanDiplomacy #PeaceAndSecurity #GlobalGovernance

Advancing Africa’s Collective Voice in Global Governance.

Africa’s pursuit of a more inclusive and representative global governance system remains central to the continent’s engagement with the evolving international order.

Session Three of the 4th #COMESAIRSK Annual Conference provided a platform for reflection and dialogue on “Towards a Common African Strategy for Global Governance Reform: Building on the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration.”

The discussion examined the continued relevance of these frameworks in articulating Africa’s position on reforming the international system, particularly regarding equitable representation within the United Nations Security Council. Deliberations further explored the questions of veto powers, state sovereignty, and the institutional reforms necessary to ensure that Africa’s interests and perspectives are adequately represented in global decision-making.

Session Three of the 4th #COMESAIRSK2026 Annual Conference focused on “Towards a Common African Strategy for Global Governance Reform: Building on the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration.”

Moderated by Dr. Kizito Sabala, the COMESA Roundtable featured insightful discussions with Amb. Dr. Mohamed Kadah, Prof. Wafula Okumu, Dr. Bob Wekesa, and Prof. Samuel Makinda. The panel examined Africa’s role in reshaping the international system through enhanced representation and active participation.

Drawing from the principles of the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration, the conversation delved into critical issues such as veto power reform, sovereignty, and the urgent need for global institutions that genuinely reflect Africa’s interests and aspirations.

A key focus was on how Africa can effectively transform its unified position into a clear, coordinated diplomatic strategy that balances firm calls for reform with pragmatic coalition building and engagement on the world stage.

This session sought to explore pathways for advancing Africa’s common agenda through strengthened regional institutions, strategic diplomacy, and robust multilateral cooperation.

#COMESAIRSK2026 #COMESA #IRSK #GlobalGovernance #Multilateralism #AfricanDiplomacy