9th Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa 

In line with COVID-19 safety protocols, the 9th Tana High-Level Forum adopted a hybrid participation mode, in which participants took part in the Forum online, as well as physical attendance, with numbers reduced in observance of COVID health protocols observed.  

The 9th Tana forum explored the theme: “The AfCFTA: Revitalising Pan-Africanism for Sustainable Peace and Development in Africa”. The theme was in recognition that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was an unprecedented initiative that is expected to generate vast economies of scale on an intra-continental basis, principally by eliminating 90 per cent of tariffs on goods and significantly reducing non-tariff barriers (NTBs) on merchandise and services, such as differences in licensing regimes and regulatory standards. 

Remarks were delivered in the opening session by H.E. Sahle-Work Zewde, President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia; the then Foreign Affairs Minister, H.E. Gedu Andargachew, Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia; the keynote address by H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, African Union Commission Chairperson, a reflection on the State of Peace and Security in Africa read on behalf of H.E. John Dramani Mahama, Former President of Ghana and Chairperson Tana Forum Board and an overview of the UN75 Initiative and the future of AU-UN cooperation by H.E. USG Fabrizio Hochschild Drummond, Special Advisor to the Secretary-General, United Nations provided a clear framework for discussions.

 “Africa First: Igniting a Growth Revolution”, a book authored by Jakkie Cilliers, was launched during the annual book launch at the 9th Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa. The book presented and explored 11 factors and their impact and contribution towards a sustainable and sustainable improvement in African livelihoods.

The Annual Meles Zenawi Lecture paid tribute to President Benjamin Mkapa and Prof. Thandika Mkandawire.