The stage is set for the 8th Edition of the Kampala Geopolitics Conference following the renewal of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between key partners, including the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) Regional Programme Security Dialogue for East Africa, Makerere University, the Embassy of France in Uganda, and Alliance Française Kampala.
The two-day event is scheduled for April 9th and 10th, 2025, at Makerere University.
The conference, a flagship forum for intellectual discourse on international relations, regional security, and peacebuilding, will also incorporate cultural activities such as visual art, dance, and musical performances that reflect themes of peace, security, gender, and cultural identity.
Commitment to African Perspectives in Global Discussions
Speaking at the MoU signing, Nils Wörmer, the Director of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung’s Regional Programme Security Dialogue for East Africa, reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to fostering African perspectives in international discussions.
“It is an honour to welcome our esteemed partners for #KampalaGeopoliticsConference and all guests to the premises of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation’s Regional Programme Security Dialogue for East Africa,” he said.
“Today, convening this conference, like each of the past seven years, represents our commitment to a platform that touches upon African perspectives in broader international debates.”
Wörmer further underscored the importance of discussions on security and governance. “International political and security affairs have been fast evolving and highly unpredictable over the past few months. International systems and institutions face severe disruptions, while foreign policies are becoming more transactional. New alliances are forming, creating new tensions amidst unresolved crises,” he explained.
Among the key topics at this year’s conference will be the reform of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the future of peacekeeping in Africa.
“Africa’s quest for a permanent seat with veto power at the UN Security Council has gathered momentum in recent days. While over 70% of UNSC resolutions concern Africa, the continent still lacks permanent representation in the Council,” Wörmer noted.
“This panel discussion will evaluate not just the rationale but also its practicability amidst similar interests from bigger powers like Germany and Japan.”
French Embassy’s Focus on AI and Maritime Trade
H.E. Xavier Sticker, Ambassador of France to Uganda, outlined the themes his delegation would champion at the conference.
“One of the key topics we will highlight will be Artificial Intelligence, diving deep into the opportunities and challenges arising from the use of AI. We find it paramount to explore issues surrounding the use of Artificial Intelligence in governments, the corporate and development world.”
He also emphasised the importance of maritime discussions. “The French Embassy will lead a panel focused on oceanic affairs, which are paramount to seaport access for landlocked countries like Uganda. We will also look into issues of worldwide regulation of trade in imports and exports.”
Makerere University’s Role in Peace and U.S.-Africa Relations
Representing Makerere University, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, highlighted the institution’s role in the conference.
“It gives me immense pleasure and a profound sense of honour to represent Makerere University at this auspicious occasion that marks the renewal of our multilateral partnership for the organization of the 8th edition of the #KGC2025,” he said.
Makerere will facilitate two key panel discussions: “Navigating Pathways to Sustainable Peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo” and “The U.S.-Africa Relations 2025-2029: Reflecting on President Trump’s America First Approach to Africa and Global Development.”
Prof. Buyinza stressed the significance of these topics. “The first panel addresses the complex challenges facing the DRC while highlighting concrete opportunities for transformative change toward peace, security, and development. The second panel will examine how Donald Trump’s return to the presidency will reshape U.S. policy toward Africa from 2025-2029, analyzing both continuities and changes from his first term.”
Cultural and Artistic Dimensions by Alliance Française Kampala
Eric Touzé, Director of Alliance Française Kampala, highlighted the institution’s mission at the conference.
“The mission of Alliance Française Kampala will be to bring, to the conference, the aspect of cultural education and artistic programs, bringing together many young creatives who will offer moments of relaxation, reflection, and beauty,” he said.
The Kampala Geopolitics Conference has, over the years, become a premier platform for informed discussions on geopolitics, security, and governance, cementing Uganda’s position as a key player in African and global discourse.
