Mashariki Research and Policy Centre (MRPC) participated in the 5th Continental Dialogue on Youth, Peace and Security, held in Bujumbura, Burundi, from 10–12 August 2026.

The forum was organised by the African Union (AU) and the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) and dialogue held under the patronage of H.E. Évariste Ndayishimiye, President of Burundi, AU Chairperson and AU Champion for Youth, Peace and Security. It brought together more than 1,200 young leaders, youth experts, government officials, diplomats and other stakeholders from across Africa.

Under the theme “Youth, Peace and Security in Africa,” participants examined challenges affecting young people, the meaningful participation of women in peacebuilding, conflict prevention, and mechanisms for strengthening the role of young Africans in shaping the continent’s future.

MRPC was represented by Research Fellow Alfred Eket, who, in an interview with KTN on the sidelines of the event, underscored the importance of ensuring meaningful participation by young people and women in peace and security dialogues, particularly given their disproportionate exposure to the effects of conflict.

Key speakers at the forum included Chairperson of the African Union Commission H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, AUC Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security Amb. Bankole Adeoye, and APRM Chief Executive Officer Amb. Marie-Antoinette Rose-Quatre.

MRPC’s participation underscores the Centre’s commitment to advancing evidence-informed policy and strengthening meaningful youth and women’s participation in conflict prevention, peacebuilding and efforts to promote stability and sustainable development across Greater Eastern Africa and the wider continent.