Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has arrived in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, for the 12th Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa, a continental gathering bringing together leaders, policymakers and security experts to discuss peace, stability and Africa’s changing geopolitical landscape.
Kindiki, who left Kenya on Saturday morning, was received at Bahir Dar International Airport by Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed ahead of the three-day forum scheduled to run from October 23 to 25, 2026.
The forum is being held under the theme “Pathways to Peace in Africa: Economic Sovereignty and Geopolitical Transformation”, with discussions expected to examine the relationship between economic independence, regional cooperation and sustainable peace across the continent.
The annual gathering provides a platform for African leaders, researchers, policymakers and representatives of regional and international organisations to exchange views on the continent’s most pressing security challenges and explore African-led solutions.
According to the forum's organisers, the 2026 edition will focus on how African countries can strengthen their economic sovereignty while navigating geopolitical competition, evolving security threats and shifting global power dynamics.
Participants are expected to examine how Africa can harness its natural resources, technological capabilities and economic potential to promote inclusive industrialisation and reduce vulnerabilities that undermine stability.
The discussions will also explore the capacity of African institutions and regional mechanisms to prevent conflicts, respond to emerging security threats and strengthen cooperation among countries facing interconnected challenges.
Particular attention is expected to be given to regional security concerns in East Africa and the Horn of Africa, where conflicts, political tensions, illicit financial flows and climate-related pressures continue to pose challenges to stability and development.
The programme also features discussions on conflict financing, climate change and security, as well as Africa’s representation in the international system and possible reforms to global multilateral institutions.
Established in 2012, the Tana Forum was designed to provide an informal platform for candid dialogue on African peace and security issues, complementing formal engagements involving governments and continental institutions.
Unlike conventional diplomatic meetings, the forum encourages direct exchanges among political leaders, academics, security practitioners and other stakeholders, with an emphasis on developing practical policy responses to the continent’s challenges.
Kindiki’s participation comes as African governments continue to pursue stronger regional partnerships and coordinated approaches to security, economic development and conflict prevention.
The discussions in Bahir Dar are expected to provide an opportunity for participating leaders to exchange experiences and explore areas of cooperation in advancing peace and stability across Africa.
The forum runs until October 25.
