8th Kampala Geopolitics Conference: Renewed Partnership for Global Dialogue

Makerere University, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS), the Embassy of France in Uganda, and Alliance Française have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the 8th edition of the Kampala Geopolitics Conference.

The signing ceremony, held at the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung offices in Kampala, reaffirmed a long-standing partnership that has positioned the conference as a premier forum for intellectual discourse in East Africa.

The event was attended by distinguished guests, including H.E. Xavier Sticker, Ambassador of France in Uganda; Mr. Nils Wörmer, Director of KAS Security Dialogue for East Africa; and Mr. Eric Touzé, Director of Alliance Française de Kampala.

Professor Mukadasi Buyinza, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs) at Makerere University, underscored the conference’s significance in advancing the university’s mission.

He noted that the event extends the institution’s mandate by addressing contemporary global challenges and equipping students with the knowledge to navigate them.

“Makerere University, with its century-long legacy, has produced luminaries across various fields. Our motto, ‘We Build for the Future,’ reflects our commitment to fostering critical thinking and global engagement,” he said.

Now in its 8th edition, the Kampala Geopolitics Conference has grown into a key platform for geopolitical discussions in East Africa.

Buyinza praised the resilience of the partnership, particularly during the pandemic, which saw the conference successfully transition to digital formats, expanding its reach.

“The 2023 and 2024 editions allowed global voices to contribute, enriching the discussions,” he noted.

The conference stands out for merging academic inquiry with real-world policy discussions, bringing together scholars, policymakers, diplomats, and the public.

“It bridges divides and addresses pressing issues such as climate security, digital governance, and migration, with a strong focus on Africa and the Global South,” Buyinza said.

He also highlighted the upcoming photo exhibition on Gender, which will incorporate insights from the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women.

Scheduled for April 9-10, 2025, the 8th edition will focus on international relations, regional security, and peacekeeping.

“Incorporating cultural activities like the Gender exhibition reflects our belief that geopolitical analysis must include lived experiences and cultural dimensions,” he added.

Makerere University remains deeply invested in the event, with students actively participating in its organization and documentation.

Buyinza emphasized the strength of the collaboration, which brings together the academic excellence of Makerere University, the policy expertise of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, the diplomatic insights of the French Embassy, and the cultural engagement of Alliance Française.

“Together, we create something greater than the sum of our contributions,” he said.

Mr. Nils Wörmer echoed these sentiments, stressing the conference’s role in amplifying African perspectives.

“It bridges academia, policy, and practice, tackling issues such as UN Security Council reform and the future of peacekeeping in Africa,” he said.

As the Kampala Geopolitics Conference approaches, organizers are committed to fostering meaningful discussions on global challenges while ensuring that Africa’s voice remains central to international debates.

With a shared vision, the partners continue to build bridges and shape the future of geopolitical discourse.