Institute advances plan for Africa diplomacy council

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The Amandla Institute has concluded a two-day high-level planning engagement on the proposed establishment of a Pan-African International Relations Council, bringing together diplomats, academics, and policy experts to examine Africa’s evolving role in a turbulent global order.

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The closed-door sessions held on May 8-9, 2026, featured frank exchanges and a collective push for greater cooperation to sharpen Africa’s strategic voice in international affairs. Participants probed the continent’s sidelined status in post-1945 systems and strategies for wielding influence in modern multilateral bodies.

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President and CEO of the Amandla Institute, Prof Adebayo Olukoshi, captured the momentum post-sessions: “What took place over these two days went beyond discussion.

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There was a genuine sense of purpose and readiness to act.

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“Those present recognised that Africa must increasingly define its own interests and speak with confidence on matters that affect the continent and its people.”

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Deliberations honed in on the council’s structure, viability, and outputs — policy papers, public lectures, webinars, research, and partnerships — while scrutinising funding and international networks.

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Contributors stressed that any new body must combine strong ideas with practical implementation, while also ensuring independence and institutional continuity.

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Speakers confronted global headwinds like major-power rivalries, shifting alliances, and resource grabs for Africa’s geopolitical edge, stressing the need for coordinated African action.

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Informal talks bridged regional, professional, and generational gaps, rallying pan-African unity for an inclusive platform.

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Organisers confirmed a launch roadmap is underway, outlining governance, funding, and initial activities.

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