The inaugural International Security Conference on Africa (ISCA) opened today in Kigali, bringing together over 600 delegates from 70 countries at the Kigali Convention Center for a two-day forum focused on shaping Africa’s security future.
The high-level gathering has attracted heads of state, security experts, policymakers, academics, and civil society leaders to engage in deep dialogue around the challenges and opportunities influencing Africa’s evolving security landscape.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, President Paul Kagame emphasized the importance of African leadership in addressing its own security concerns:
“Africa’s future, particularly in matters of peace and security, cannot be outsourced. For far too long, our security has been treated as a burden to be managed by others, often without our context or consent. This approach has failed to deliver for both Africa and the world.”
He added: “What begins here is more than a conference. It is a deliberate effort to change both the narrative and the substance of how Africa engages with global security debates. Moving forward, we must participate not from the margins, but as a credible and capable partner.”
Under the banner of #ISCA2025, the conference is tackling issues including regional cooperation, counterterrorism, cybersecurity, peacekeeping, and the future of African-led security solutions. Delegates are expected to produce actionable recommendations to enhance the continent’s ability to manage its own security affairs.
The Kigali forum sets the foundation for what is anticipated to become a permanent platform for African-led security dialogue, innovation, and policy coordination.
