Members of the International Association of Peacekeeping Training Centres,
I extend a warm welcome to each one of you as we prepare to congregate in Kenya for the 27th Annual Conference of the International Association of Peacekeeping Training Centres (IAPTC) from 6 - 10 November 2023.
I am honoured to be part of this esteemed gathering of peacekeeping training institutions/experts from around the world. Indeed, IAPTC has made tremendous strides in contributing to effective peace operations by promoting enhanced understanding of peacekeeping and its goals. I commend IAPTC’s dedication to training and capacity building and efforts to bring together global peacekeeping practitioners to exchange experiences, lessons learnt, and best practices.
Kenya understands the critical role of peacekeeping in promoting global peace and stability. Accordingly, it has been a constant contributor to peace operations since 1979. Kenya’s commitment to this noble cause stems from our belief that growth and development of any country is closely linked to its stability. We recognize that the spillover effects of armed conflict hinder local development and, subsequently, regional and international progress. As such, Kenya will continue to support the work of regional, international, and multi-lateral organizations in finding lasting solutions to conflict for a secure world.
I am confident that the 27th IAPTC Annual Conference will provide a valuable platform for exchanging ideas and best practices. I hope that it will also advance our collective understanding of contemporary peace operations’ dynamics. It is my wish that you will engage fully in the conference proceedings, network, and take advantage of opportunities for learning and growth that this event will provide.
I look forward to a productive and meaningful conference and feel most welcome to Kenya.