KAIPTC Honours Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambas at 75 for Lifelong Service to Peace and Diplomacy in Africa
The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) has held a commemorative symposium to honour the 75th birthday of Dr Mohammed Ibn Chambas, celebrating his decades of service to peace, security and diplomacy across Africa.
The event drew senior government officials, diplomats, academics, civil society leaders and family members, all gathered to reflect on Dr. Chambas’ contributions to conflict prevention, mediation and regional integration.
Commandant of the KAIPTC, Air Commodore David Akrong, praised Dr. Chambas for a career that has shaped peace and security responses on the continent.
He described the former ECOWAS Executive Secretary and AU-UN Envoy as a man whose leadership has inspired generations of practitioners in diplomacy, conflict resolution and governance.
He said Dr. Chambas’ work continues to guide ongoing efforts toward unity, stability and development.
Air Commodore Akrong encouraged participants to use the symposium to reflect on lessons from Dr. Chambas’ life and apply them to current and emerging security challenges across Africa.
Chairperson of the Planning Committee, Prof. Takyiwaa Manu, also paid tribute to the celebrated diplomat, describing him as an “illustrious, committed and visionary son of Africa.”
She highlighted the persistent threats facing Africa, such as violent extremism in the Sahel, terrorism in the Lake Chad Basin, electoral violence, governance breakdowns, maritime insecurity and climate-induced conflicts.
She said these required strong institutions and committed leaders, adding that few Africans have contributed as significantly to tackling these issues as Dr. Chambas.
She outlined key moments in his career, including his leadership in resolving conflicts in Liberia and Sierra Leone as ECOWAS Executive Secretary, his role in strengthening regional mechanisms for early warning and peacekeeping, and his work in promoting trade liberalisation and cooperation.
Prof. Manu said Dr. Chambas’ legacy shows how dialogue, inclusivity and regional cooperation can build more peaceful societies.
She added that the symposium was not only to celebrate his achievements but also to inspire young peacebuilders and document lessons from his long career.
In his remarks, Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambas expressed deep gratitude to the KAIPTC, the organisers and all who had gathered to celebrate him.
He said the honour was meaningful and humbling, especially as it came from Africans committed to peace and progress on the continent.
Reflecting on his journey, he recalled the difficult periods of conflict he encountered in countries such as Sudan and Liberia, noting that progress in peacebuilding is often slow and challenging.
He paid tribute to partners who worked with him over the years, including the National Peace Council in Ghana, traditional authorities and civil society organisations, describing them as essential pillars in preventing violence and promoting dialogue.
Dr. Chambas stressed the importance of strengthening Africa’s institutions, promoting transparency and ensuring that civil society is actively involved in democratic processes.
He encouraged African leaders to defend the continent’s dignity, preserve its heritage and empower young people and women, whom he described as “Africa’s greatest resource.”
He called for unity and renewed commitment to addressing the root causes of instability, saying the continent cannot afford to be held back by external pressures, economic inequalities, or new forms of exploitation.
According to him, Africans must take ownership of their own solutions, protect their history and work together for a peaceful and prosperous future.
Dr. Chambas thanked the KAIPTC, the Planning Committee and all contributors who made the celebration possible, noting that the event had been fully supported by Africans who believed in the cause of peace and in the values he has worked for throughout his career.
He urged the next generation to continue the fight for stability, justice and development, saying Africa’s progress depends on the courage and commitment of its people.
BY AGNES OPOKU SARPONG
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