09 Dec 17th African Standby Force Training Implementation Workshop (TIW)-2025
The 17th African Standby Force Training Implementation Workshop (TIW) was convened by the African Union through the Peace Support Operations Division (PSOD) from 1–5 December 2025 in Harare, Zimbabwe. The Workshop reviewed the implementation status of the 2024–2026 ASF Training Directives, examined training coordination among AU, RECs/RMs, Training Centres of Excellence (TCEs), missions and partners, and deliberated on the efficiency of mandate implementation through reassessed capacity needs. The Workshop underscored the urgent need for a continental Training Needs Assessment (TNA), enhanced standardization of training across institutions, reinforced monitoring, evaluation and compliance frameworks, and stronger partner coordination mechanisms. The role of APSTA as a continental technical backbone for ASF training standardization, knowledge management and quality assurance was strongly reaffirmed.
Deliberations focused on efficiency in mandate implementation, continental TNA 2026, and training directive updates. This was led by Mr. Christian Ichite, the deputy Executive Secretary of APSTA. His comprehensive TNA presentation touched on the approach, dynamics, plan, budget and expectations from all stakeholders. It was set on records that, the TNA is urgently needed to identify gaps, deficits, emerging needs and recommend sound effective practices and strategy for the entire PSOD, TCEs, REC/RMs and all stakeholders. Key Observations included the urgent need for a continental TNA and capability-driven training planning intended for 2026.
Mission updates, partner support and countering disinformation were key themes. The meeting took key updates from partners, missions and special report from the African conference of commandants. APSTA reported and made key inputs on strategic steps in integrating technology, AI, knowledge management and working on policy framework for improving efficiency on their mandate. The senior knowledge manager of APSTA, Dr. Alexander Odartey Lamptey assured stakeholders of APSTA’s commitment in developing tech innovation consistent with AU guidance for improvement. APSTA was applauded for their strides in the Database of experts, Data Mining on conflict and Interventions, and the document library, a repository of data and documents.
Training is a strategic enabler of ASF effectiveness. Evidence-based planning, strengthened standardization, partner coordination and APSTA’s knowledge management role are essential to ASF readiness. The continental TNA planned for 2026 was a welcoming plan and timely for execution.
