On 17 September 2026, the Mashariki Research and Policy Centre (MRPC) participated in the Africa launch of the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2026, co-hosted by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) and the Australian High Commission (AHC) in Kenya at Rosslyn, along Limuru Road, Nairobi. IEP is a global think tank headquartered in Australia that conducts evidence-based research to measure and understand peace, conflict, and economic risks.

The MRPC Chief Executive Officer, Brig. (Rtd) Dr. Robert Kabage, PhD, attended the launch alongside diplomats, senior government representatives, policymakers, academics, think tank representatives, and civil society leaders. The welcome remarks were made by Mr. Andrew Barnes, Australian High Commissioner to Kenya followed by a virtual keynote presentation by Mr. Steve Killelea, Founder and Executive Chairman of IEP, on the key findings in the GPI 2026.

The discussions examined the GPI findings in the context of evolving geopolitical shifts, the global economic impact of violence, and emerging conflict frontiers associated with artificial intelligence and illicit economies. Participants also explored regional and global conflict fragility and the economic implications of peacebuilding approaches and application of drone technologies to support rapid decision-making and help save lives.

MRPC’s participation in the GPI 2026 policy dialogue underscores the Centre’s commitment to advancing research excellence, security foresight, innovation, and strategic partnerships with like-minded institutions. This is aimed at jointly identifying pathways towards peace, resilience, and stability across Greater Eastern Africa.