Participants at the National Security Symposium 2026 have called for stronger African-led responses to the continent’s evolving security challenges, with discussions focusing on external interference, governance weaknesses, natural resource management and the need for greater strategic autonomy. Held at the Rwanda Military Academy Gako on May 16, the annual symposium brought together senior military officers, policymakers, academics and security experts to assess contemporary threats facing Africa and explore pathways toward sustainable peace and stability. The annual symposium forms part of the Master of Arts in Security Studies programme jointly organised by the Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College and the University of Rwanda. It serves as a platform for senior officers and experts to examine pressing security issues while generating policy ideas aimed at strengthening Africa’s peace, stability and resilience. ALSO READ: Generating sufficient energy to power national development a high priority – Rwandan minister says at security conference The discussions centred on how African countries can strengthen resilience amid increasingly complex geopolitical competition, while ensuring that the continent’s resources and institutions serve its long-term interests. External interference remains a pressing concern A major theme emerging from the discussions was the continued impact of external interference on Africa’s political and security landscape. Participants observed that foreign influence has evolved over time, increasingly manifesting through political pressure, economic leverage, debt dependency, military partnerships and information operations. The symposium heard that while external engagement is not inherently harmful, it becomes problematic when it undermines sovereignty, weakens local institutions or prioritises foreign strategic interests over African development priorities. Participants stressed that Africa must move decisively from being an arena for global rivalry to becoming the principal architect of its own peace and security. The discussions highlighted the importance of strategic autonomy, arguing that sustainable solutions to Africa’s challenges must be shaped by African priorities rather than external agendas. This, participants noted, requires stronger regional cooperation and a more unified continental voice in addressing shared security concerns. Governance gaps fuelling insecurity The forum also examined governance challenges as a key driver of instability across the continent. Participants pointed to weak institutions, political fragmentation, poverty, youth unemployment and identity-based tensions as factors that continue to create fertile ground for insecurity. These vulnerabilities, the discussions noted, often create openings for armed groups, violent extremism and organised transnational crime. It was observed that contemporary African conflicts are increasingly multidimensional and interconnected, extending beyond traditional military threats. ALSO READ: African defence experts discuss global challenges, foreign interference Security challenges across parts of the continent are now shaped by a complex mix of local grievances, regional spillover effects, climate-related pressures and global geopolitical competition. Participants argued that governance vacuums frequently enable external actors to deepen their influence, complicating peacebuilding efforts and prolonging instability. The symposium emphasised the need for stronger institutions capable of addressing root causes of conflict while improving accountability and service delivery. Participants stressed that security cannot be separated from governance, economic inclusion and institutional resilience. Natural resources, sustainable development Participants argued that Africa’s vast mineral wealth and natural endowments should serve as a foundation for prosperity and long-term stability rather than becoming sources of competition and conflict. The panel examined how global demand for strategic minerals has intensified international interest in Africa, increasing pressure on governments to safeguard economic sovereignty. Participants stressed the importance of transparent governance frameworks to ensure that resource wealth translates into tangible benefits for African populations. ALSO READ: To end conflicts in Africa, root causes must be addressed, says Biruta Poorly managed resources, the symposium heard, risk fuelling instability, deepening dependency and exposing countries to external exploitation. The discussions underscored the need for African states to adopt strategic approaches that prioritise local value addition, prudent management and long-term development planning. Building stronger domestic capacity to manage and benefit from natural resources was described as critical to reducing vulnerability and enhancing self-reliance. Rethinking Africa’s place in global systems The symposium also reflected on Africa’s position within international legal and political systems. Participants raised questions about the extent to which African interests were represented in the creation of global governance structures and legal frameworks that continue to shape international relations. The discussions highlighted the need for African countries to deepen understanding of these systems and strengthen their capacity to engage with them strategically. Participants argued that while international institutions remain important, African states must ensure they are equipped to navigate them in ways that protect sovereignty and national interests. The panel also underscored the importance of building legal and institutional preparedness to respond effectively to emerging international challenges. Call for coordinated African action The officials noted that Africa’s security future will depend on unity, accountability and strategic coordination. They stressed that addressing the continent’s challenges requires collective action and long-term investment in domestic institutions.
