WHAT: COMESA-IRSK 2025 Annual Conference: Enhancing COMESA’s Strategic Positioning and Resilience in the Evolving Global Order
WHO: The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), in partnership with the International Relations Society of Kenya (IRSK), Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) Kenya Office, the African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes (ACCORD), the Institute for Security Studies (ISS), the Australian High Commission-Kenya, and the Acacia Dialogue Centre (ADC)
WHEN: 1st–3rd October 2025
WHERE: Best Western Hotel, Westlands, Nairobi, Kenya
BACKGROUND: In an era marked by rapid global shifts, regional organisations such as COMESA play a pivotal role in shaping Africa’s economic and political landscape. The conference provides a platform for dialogue on strategies that strengthen the region’s resilience, promote integration, and enhance its strategic positioning in the evolving global order.
OBJECTIVE:
• To convene key stakeholders to discuss contemporary challenges and opportunities in regional integration, diplomacy, and security.
• To provide a forum for exchanging knowledge and best practices for enhancing COMESA’s strategic influence.
• To foster networking and collaboration between African policymakers, researchers, and practitioners.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS FOR MEDIA:
• Opening Remarks and Keynote Speeches, Speakers Include:
✓ H.E. Mr Christopher Ellinger, Chargé d’Affaires, Australian High Commission to Kenya
✓ Dr Kizito Sabala, Chairman, IRSK Annual Conference
✓ Mr Mathias Kamp, Director, KAS Kenya Office
✓ H.E. Ambassador Erastus Mwencha, Chairman, ACBF
✓ H.E. Mr Anouar Ben Youssef, Ambassador of the Republic of Tunisia to Kenya
✓ H.E. Dr Amb. Mohamed Kadah, Assistant Secretary General, COMESA
✓ Ms Regina Akoth Ombam, Principal Secretary, State Department for Trade, Kenya
• Interactive Panel Discussions and Presentations addressing critical topics including peace and security, regional integration, economic diplomacy, public-private partnerships, election management, AfricaAustralia relations, and youth engagement.
• Release of New Research Findings relevant to regional and international policy landscapes.
• Networking Opportunities with senior officials, academics, and industry experts.
REGISTRATION & MEDIA CREDENTIALS:
Entry requires valid press credentials. For press passes, interview requests, or further inquiries, please contact:
• Mr Dismas Mokua at conference@irskenya.or.ke
• Ms Paida Mudzimuirema at paidamwoyo@accord.org.za
FOLLOW THE CONVERSATION ONLINE:
Hashtag:#IRSKConference2025