The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) has commenced a two-week political advisors course for security officers across the sub-region.
The course, developed in collaboration with the Austrian Federal Ministry of Defence, is aimed at equipping participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to function effectively as political advisors in peace support operations.
The programme, dubbed “Political Advisor Course for Peace Support Operations in Africa 2025”, is expected to end on Friday, May 23, 2025.
Participants will be taken through topics such as “the role of a political advisor, negotiation and mediation principles, reporting, briefing and public diplomacy, as well as dealing with the media.
Role of political advisors
The acting Commandant of KAIPTC, Air Commodore David Anetey Akrong, emphasised the critical role of political advisors in conflicts.
“The role of the political advisor in a mission is very critical in providing proper analysis of political developments, trends and emerging issues in a country or region.
They also make recommendations on possible policies, strategies and other measures to address issues of concern.
Air Commodore Akrong said peace was a critical prerequisite for national, regional and global development.
He said the consequences of discord and anarchy can lead to stagnation and devastation of societies, hence the need to train political advisors for operation commanders or Heads of Missions of the UN, AU and ECOWAS.
The acting Commandant expressed gratitude to the Austrian Embassy for the initiative and support in developing the course, and encouraged the participants to share their knowledge, expertise and experiences with colleagues.
Commitment
The Austrian Ambassador to Ghana, Jurgen Heissel, said his country was committed to peacekeeping and security, adding that Austria, which was preparing to take up a seat on the UN Security Council, was an honest broker and bridge builder in international relations.
The ambassador said that the complex conflicts and challenges facing the world, such as radicalisation, terrorism and organised crime, have had devastating consequences on humanity and the environment.
Mr Heissel further said that political advisors play key roles in peace support operations with their analysis, outreach and advice to foster sustainable peace and development.
The ambassador also stressed the importance of multi-stakeholder approaches in mediation and the transformation of conflicts.
