The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) on Monday hosted the opening ceremony of the 2025 Political Advisor Course for Peace Support Operations in Africa, marking a significant step in strengthening the capacity of peace missions across the continent.
The course, developed in collaboration with the Austrian Federal Ministry of Defence, brings together experienced facilitators and participants from across Africa and beyond to build expertise in political analysis, negotiation, public diplomacy and conflict mediation – critical competencies for political advisors deployed in multi-dimensional peace support operations.
Air Commodore David A. Appiah, welcoming participants at the KAIPTC emphasised the course’s relevance in a region experiencing persistent instability.
“The role of the political advisor in a mission is very critical,” he said, noting their responsibility to provide mission leadership with in-depth analysis and actionable recommendations to mitigate conflict and advance peace.
Air Commodore Appiah urged participants to take full advantage of the training, stating: “This course is being organised to formalise the training of political advisors for commanders and heads of UN, AU, and ECOWAS missions.
“It will expose you to internationally required competencies and standards that are essential for successful peace operations.”
In his remarks, the Austrian Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Jürgen Heissel, underlined the growing complexity of peace building on the continent, referencing the displacement, food insecurity, and environmental degradation exacerbated by conflict.
“Your work as political advisors is crucial to the success of operations entrusted with restoring peace,” he said. “Unfortunately, your task has not become easier, but your expertise and outreach are more important than ever.”
H.E. Heissel lauded the joint initiative between Austria and KAIPTC and encouraged active engagement among participants, stating that such exchanges would benefit not only individuals but the broader peace missions and institutions they serve.
The course will run for several weeks, with sessions covering negotiation and mediation principles, strategic communication, and media engagement.
It is hosted at KAIPTC’s state-of-the-art facilities in Accra, a hub for regional peace building training and dialogue.
Course Director Lt. Col. Michael Novotny and Dr. Gerald Hainzl of the Austrian Defence Ministry were also present, alongside Counsellor Günther Barnet and other dignitaries.
