ACCORD, in partnership with the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), organised a knowledge and experience-sharing workshop for the COMESA Committee of Elders and the SADC Panel of Elders to gain insights into the practical complexities of mediation interventions. The workshop took place from 13 to 14 October 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya.
The workshop convened the high level group that included Her Excellency, Dr Joyce Banda, former President of the Republic of Malawi; His Excellency, Ruhakana Rugunda, former Prime Minister of Uganda; His Excellency Mr Paramasivum Vyapoory, former Vice President of the Republic of Mauritius; His Excellency, Ambassador Ashraf Rashed, Chair of the COMESA Committee of Elders; H.E. Ambassador Mohamed Kadah, Assistant Secretary General of Programmes at COMESA; Prof Kula Theletsane, SADC Director of the Organ on Politics, Defense and Security Affairs; and representatives of the SADC Mediation Reference Group (MRG); among others.
The Elders, together with the MRG shared their knowledge and practical experiences in mediation efforts. Lessons drawn from electoral observer missions and political interventions provided deeper insights into ways in which to strengthen mediation practices. Thematic issues such as inclusivity also focused on ways in which to promote the role of women, youth and marginalised groups in peace processes.
At the conclusion of the workshop, the recommendations included ways to strengthen Inter-REC coordination, collaboration, and coherence; identified approaches for enhanced knowledge and information exchange among themselves; as well as highlighted areas for increased women and youth participation.
ACCORD, through its longstanding partnerships with COMESA and SADC, will continue to collaborate with the RECs to promote the exchange of knowledge and experience, thereby enhancing mediation efforts for sustainable peace.
