Kofi Ampeah Woode
The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), in cooperation with the Austrian Federal Ministry of Defence, has commenced the 2025 edition of the Political Advisor Course for Peace Support Operations (PSO) in Africa.
Speaking as the Guest of Honour at the opening ceremony at the KAIPTC on Monday 12 May 2025, the Commandant, KAIPTC – Air Commodore (A/Cdre) David Anetey Akrong hinted of some of the course contents being; the Role of a Political Advisor, Negotiations and Mediation Principles, Reporting, Briefing and Public Diplomacy, as well as dealing with the media.
He added that the role of the Political Advisor in a mission is very critical for providing the mission leadership with proper analysis of political developments, trends and emerging issues in the country or region, and making recommendations on possible policies, strategies and other measures to address issues of concern.
With the West African sub-region witnessing a surge in international efforts to end wars, stabilise fragile states, and rebuild war-torn societies, an unprecedented number of peace operations and political missions have been deployed to deal with crises and violent conflict, and to maintain or restore peace, he continued.
The Commandant added that the vacuum created by the absence of peace enables discord and anarchy to prevail, and this results in corresponding stagnation and devastation of societies.
It is for this reason, he stated emphatically, that the course was developed by the KAIPTC and the Austrian Federal Ministry of Defence, to formalise training of Political Advisors for Commanders of Operations and/or Heads of Missions of United Nations/African Union/Economic Community of West African States missions.
The Austrian Ambassador to Ghana – His Excellency (HE) Jürgen Heissel, who was the Special Guest, said those engaged in ending war and unrest, in rebuilding peace and war-torn societies under more and more comprehensive and multi-dimensional mandates, require broad expertise and skills.
He described the analysis, outreach to a wide network of stakeholders, and advice that the political advisor provides to mission leadership as key, and crucial to the success of the operations entrusted with maintaining or restoring peace.
“Multi-stakeholder approaches have become an important strategy to mediate and transform conflicts, to foster sustainable peace and development”, (HE) Jürgen Heissel said.
On Austria/Ghana relations, the Ambassador said both countries share a similar approach to foreign policy, not only based on interests but on values, and their joint commitment to democracy, security and the rule of law.
He further said that with Ghana being an anchor of stability and a privileged partner in West Africa, Security Cooperation is therefore a major sector in the two countries’ bilateral relations and contribution to the wider region.
In the Defence/Security area, Austria has a bilateral engagement with Ghana through cooperation with the KAIPTC, and another through the training of military dogs for the Ghana Armed Forces.
Present at the course opening included Counsellor Günther Barnet – Representative from the Austrian Ministry of Defence; Dr Gerald Hainzl of the Austrian Embassy; Colonel Lawrence Deku – Training Director, KAIPTC; and Lieutenant Colonel Michael Novotny – the Course director.
By Kofi Ampeah-Woode
