Africa Charts a New Course in Global Affairs at the 11th Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa
The 11th Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa convened from 24 to 26 October 2025 in Bahir Dar and Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, under the theme “Africa in an Evolving Global Order.” The Forum brought together 248 participants, including former Heads of State, Ministers, diplomats, academics, youth, and civil society leaders, reaffirming its position as Africa’s premier platform for dialogue on peace, security, and governance.
Setting the Agenda for African Leadership
Discussions underscored the need for citizen-centered governance, predictable African-owned peace financing, and a unified continental voice in international platforms. Participants called for stronger coordination between the African Union (AU), Regional Economic Communities (RECs), and international partners to enhance accountability and advance Africa’s collective interests.
Key Highlights from the Forum
In Bahir Dar, leaders and experts focused on stability and cooperation in the Horn of Africa. The Vice-Chancellors’ Dialogue at Bahir Dar University emphasized the role of higher education in promoting innovation and governance aligned with African realities.
In Addis Ababa, side events addressed the Climate–Security nexus, Artificial Intelligence in armed conflicts, and AU reform. Participants proposed establishing a continental observatory on Climate, Peace, and Security and adopting a Common African Position on AI regulation and use in security contexts.
Day Two featured the Meles Zenawi Lecture Series honoring the legacy of Samora Machel. High-level sessions explored African agency in a multipolar world, conflict prevention through Pax Africana, and inclusive energy and digital transitions. Delegates urged investment in technology, education, and industrial capacity to protect Africa’s sovereignty and ensure sustainable growth.
Youth and Multilateralism at the Forefront
The final day highlighted the Tana University Essay Competition winners, who called for meaningful youth engagement in governance and diplomacy. The concluding session on multilateralism warned against the erosion of international law and urged the AU to strengthen its diplomatic presence and coherence at the United Nations.
Media Coverage
About 13 media houses were present at the 11th Tana Forum, providing broad on-site and national coverage from Bahir Dar and Addis Ababa. Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation, the Ethiopian News Agency, and the Government Communication Service reported extensively on Ethiopia’s leadership and Africa’s evolving role in global security. International and regional outlets, including Press TV, Horn Review, and Fana Media Corporation, highlighted the participation of AU officials, ministers, and experts. The African Union Commission issued an official release reinforcing the Forum’s call for action. EthioMonitor, and Amhara Regional broadcasters also covered the event, capturing discussions on peace, governance, and Africa’s global position.
Call to Action
Closing the Forum, H.E. Dr. Joyce Banda, Former President of Malawi and Tana Forum Board Member, urged participants to move from dialogue to action. She emphasized the need for strong institutions, accountability, and follow-up to ensure that commitments made at Tana translate into real progress.
Key Outcomes
• Strengthened AU–IGAD–UN coordination for peace and security.
• Establishment of a Climate, Peace, and Security observatory.
• Development of a Common African Position on Artificial Intelligence.
• Institutionalization of youth and women’s leadership in decision-making.
• Investment of 5% of national defense budgets in AU-led peace efforts.
• Alignment of education and research with Africa’s industrial and digital priorities.
Partners and Support
The Forum was supported by the Governments of Ethiopia, Open Society Foundations (OSF), Irish Government, Danish Government, Norwegian Government, Humanity United, La Francophonie, The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), German Government, Portuguese Government, New Zealand Government, UNDP, Japanese Mission to the AU, USIP, Swiss Government, Ethio Telecom, Adwa Victory Memorial Museum, Ethiopian Airlines, African Union, Amhara Regional Government, Avanti Blue Nile, among others.
Looking Ahead
The 11th Tana Forum closed with a united call for Africa to act collectively and decisively to shape its own destiny in an evolving global order. The Tana Secretariat will oversee follow-up on all recommendations to ensure sustained progress.