His Excellency Dr. William Ruto, the President of the Republic of Kenya and the Commander-in-Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces today virtually opened the 27th annual Conference of International Association of Peacekeeping Training Centres (IAPTC) in Nairobi.
The five-day Conference which is happening for the first time in the Eastern Africa region brought together senior officials from the security sector across the globe to discuss a myriad of issues aimed at enhancing global peace, security and stability.
In his remarks, the Head of State noted that history and recent developments have demonstrated that we are all implicated in various conflicts around the world, either directly or indirectly.
However, the President added that the implications of such conflicts extend beyond the fighting parties and cause far reach effects in economic, industrial and environmental devastations that continue before the guns are silenced.
“The implications of this shift have been numerous. The relationship between economic development on one hand and peace, security and stability on the other is no longer abstract or debatable. We emphatically view peace as a foundational enabler of sustainable development, economic growth and prosperity in any society,” said the President.
He maintained that effective peace support depends on a sound understanding of the mandate and the operating environment which calls for a global multi-disciplinary capacity which must incorporate the input of the military, police, civilian and other technical personnel from regional and international organizations.
He reiterated that the place of women in conflict resolution is indispensable in defining and supporting peace support policies, strategies and programmes.
“This must expand the role of women in democracy, governance and development through their recognition and inclusion as equal component of functional society,” the Head of State said.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale said the Ministry of Defence continues to play its part in peace support operations in the fulfilment of national obligations towards international peace and security saying the disciplined Forces have demonstrated steadfast dedication to peace by working seamlessly with other partners to attain stability in places afflicted by conflict.
“Kenya remains committed to the global responsibility which has been demonstrated by the recent promulgation of the National Peace Support Operations Policy which shall enable direct resourcing of the current and future deployments under the African Union or the United Nations missions.As an anchor State in the region, Kenya remains an important hub for peace training beyond the battlefield in recognition that peace and stability are essential components for sustainable development,” said the CS.
During the Conference, the CS launched the IAPTC Mobile App that shall be instrumental in networking and sharing ideas on best practices for peace resolutions.
Also present were the National Security Advisor and the Secretary to the National Security Council Amb. Dr. Monicah Juma, Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla, Service Commanders, Major General Nasim Parvez IAPTC President, Director of the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC) Brigadier Joyce Sitienei, members of the Diplomatic Corps, representatives from AU and UN as well as other senior military officers from across the globe.
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