Africa Defense & Border Forum (ADBF), 2025

Theme: “Strengthening Regional Security, Collaboration, and Border Management for a Resilient Africa”

Accra, Ghana

Hybrid (In-Person and Virtual Participation Available)

22-23
May 2025

INTRODUCTION

The Africa Defense & Border Forum

The Africa Defense & Border Forum (ADBF) is envisioned as a premier platform to address the evolving challenges and opportunities in Africa’s defense and border management landscape. With the continent facing increasing threats such as terrorism, human trafficking, smuggling, irregular migration, and the impact of climate change on cross-border dynamics, it is essential to foster dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders.

ADBF aims to create a holistic approach to security by uniting policymakers, defense officials, border management authorities, international organizations, and private sector leaders. The forum will promote regional cooperation, showcase innovative technologies, and explore actionable solutions to enhance security and economic resilience across Africa.

The Africa Defense & Border Forum (ADBF) 

Background and Rationale

Africa’s borders, many of which are porous and span diverse terrains, present unique security and economic challenges. The increasing frequency of cross-border crimes, insurgencies, and irregular migration has highlighted the need for coordinated strategies and cutting-edge solutions.

The African Union’s Agenda 2063 emphasizes the importance of peace and security as a foundation for development, and regional frameworks like the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of People underscore the need for safe, legal, and efficient border management. However, implementing these policies requires collaboration, capacity building, and innovation to address the realities on the ground.

The Africa Defense & Border Forum (ADBF) seeks to create a platform for defense experts, policymakers, border management officials, and technology providers to engage in high-level dialogue, share best practices, and foster actionable strategies to improve defense and border security across the continent.

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Objectives

Technological Innovations for Border and Defense Security

Exploring the role of artificial intelligence, drones, biometrics, and surveillance systems in improving border control and monitoring. Leveraging real-time data and intelligence-sharing platforms to combat cross-border threats.

Counterterrorism and Cross-Border Crime Prevention

Developing strategies to address terrorism, human trafficking, smuggling, and arms proliferation. Enhancing cooperation among defense forces and law enforcement agencies to strengthen collective security.

Migration and Border Humanitarian Management

Balancing border security with the need for humane treatment of refugees, migrants, and displaced persons. Establishing frameworks for managing climate-related displacement and migration.

Policy Harmonization and Regional Cooperation

Strengthening partnerships among African Union member states and regional blocs like ECOWAS, SADC, and EAC. Promoting unified policies and protocols to streamline border security and trade.

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Key Themes

1. Technological Innovations for Border and Defense Security

  • Exploring the role of artificial intelligence, drones, biometrics, and surveillance systems in improving border control and monitoring.
  • Leveraging real-time data and intelligence-sharing platforms to combat cross-border threats.

2. Counterterrorism and Cross-Border Crime Prevention

  • Developing strategies to address terrorism, human trafficking, smuggling, and arms proliferation.
  • Enhancing cooperation among defense forces and law enforcement agencies to strengthen collective security.

3. Migration and Border Humanitarian Management

  • Balancing border security with the need for humane treatment of refugees, migrants, and displaced persons.
  • Establishing frameworks for managing climate-related displacement and migration.

4. Policy Harmonization and Regional Cooperation

  • Strengthening partnerships among African Union member states and regional blocs like ECOWAS, SADC, and EAC.
  • Promoting unified policies and protocols to streamline border security and trade.

5. Capacity Building for Defense and Border Officials

  • Training programs to enhance the capabilities of personnel in handling dynamic threats.
  • Leadership development programs to ensure decision-makers are well-equipped to respond to complex challenges.
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Event Structure

The Africa Defense & Border Forum will feature a diverse range of sessions to ensure a comprehensive exploration of the topics:

  • Keynote Addresses: Delivered by prominent defense ministers, security experts, and thought leaders, offering strategic insights and setting the tone for discussions.
  • High-Level Panel Discussions: Engaging sessions on key themes, featuring experts from across sectors and regions.
  • Workshops and Capacity-Building Seminars: Practical, hands-on sessions to provide attendees with actionable tools and techniques.
  • Exhibition Area: A showcase of cutting-edge technologies, products, and services from leading defense and border management solution providers.
  • Breakout Sessions: Smaller, focused discussions to encourage deeper exploration of specific topics.
  • Networking Opportunities: Dedicated time for stakeholders to forge partnerships and explore collaborative initiatives.

Speakers

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H.E Martin Gama Abucha

Eng. Victor B. Mapani

Mr. Chibamba Kanyama

Paulo Gomes

Ms. Cisse Boide

Mr. Christopher Kirigua

Ms. Caroline Abel

Event Agenda

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  • AFLF Schedule


  • Day 1


  • Day 2


  • IFAL Schedule


  • We haven't found any session that matches you're criteria
  • Participants register, receive event materials, and network informally over breakfast.
    IFAL

  • • Master of Ceremonies (MC) Introduction
    • Opening Address by [Name], Chairperson of the Forum
    IFAL

  • Topic: "The Future of Africa’s Security Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities"
    • Delivered by (High-Level Government Official or Expert)
    IFAL

  • Topic: "Combating Cross-Border Crime: Strategies for Regional Cooperation"
    • Panelists: Defense Ministers, Security Experts, and Regional Leaders
    • Moderator: Name

  • 1. Technological Innovations for Border Management
    2. Counterterrorism Strategies for Africa
    3. Addressing Human Trafficking and Smuggling Networks
    IFAL

  • Topic: "Capacity Building for Border Officials: Tools and Best Practices"
    • Led by (Name/Organization)
    IFAL
    Where
    Hall 1, Building A

  • • Summary of Discussions
    • Insights from Day 1 by the Moderator
    IFAL

  • Topic: "The Role of Regional Organizations in Enhancing Africa’s Defense Capacity"
    • Delivered by (African Union Representative or Keynote Speaker)
    IFAL

  • Topic: "Policy Harmonization: Aligning Regional and National Border Security Frameworks"
    • Panelists: Regional Leaders, AU Representatives, and Policy Analysts
    IFAL

  • 1. Leveraging AI and Big Data for Intelligence Sharing
    2. Strengthening Maritime and Land Border Security
    3. Developing Legal Frameworks for Migration and Refugee Management
    IFAL

  • Topic: "Technology Showcase: Tools for Smarter Border Surveillance and Management"
    • Presentations by Leading Solution Providers
    IFAL

  • Topic: "Successful Cross-Border Operations: Lessons Learned"
    • Presented by (Name/Organization)
    IFAL

  • • Celebrating Excellence in Defense and Border Security
    • Key Takeaways from the Forum
    • Closing Address by (Name, Organizing Committee Head)
    • Vote of Thanks
    IFAL


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Target Audience

The Africa Defense & Border Forum will bring together key stakeholders including:

  • Ministers of Defense, Interior, and Foreign Affairs
  • Chiefs of Defense Staff and Senior Military Leaders
  • Border Management and Immigration Officials
  • Representatives of Regional Economic Communities (e.g., ECOWAS, SADC, EAC)
  • Security Experts and Policy Analysts
  • Technology Providers and Private Sector Leaders
  • International Development Partners, NGOs, and Civil Society Organizations

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Expected Outcome

  1. Actionable Strategies: Development of clear recommendations and strategies for enhancing defense and border management across Africa.
  2. Collaborative Networks: Strengthened partnerships between governments, private sectors, and international organizations.
  3. Innovation Promotion: Increased awareness and adoption of advanced tools and solutions in border and defense management.
  4. Capacity Building: Enhanced skills and knowledge among security and border management personnel.
  5. Policy Alignment: Drafting of unified frameworks to streamline defense and border management protocols across regions.

Peduase Valley Resort

To inquire about availability, rates, and additional services, please contact our dedicated events team at events.@africanleadership.co.uk or visit our website for more details.

Pricing

Select an individual ticket or reserve a table of ten and bring your colleagues to maximize your time at the event.

22-23
May 2025

General Admission

Individual Admission

$199
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Table of Ten Admission

$1,899
Register Now

Sponsors & Partners

We appreciate our supporters

We invite governments, international organizations, and private sector leaders to collaborate with us on this impactful event. Sponsorship packages include branding opportunities, speaking engagements, exhibition spaces, and access to high-level networking sessions.

By partnering with ADBF, you contribute to shaping Africa’s defense and security landscape while positioning your organization as a leader in innovation and development.

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Founding Partner

Supporting Partner

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Africa Defense & Border Forum (ADBF), 2025

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