Africa's challenges take centre stage at Paris Peace Forum
French President Emmanuel Macron (C-L) greets Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye (C-R) upon his arrival at the Élysée Palace for the ninth edition of the Paris Peace Forum in Paris, France, November 9, 2026. (Photo: VCG)
African peace and security, agricultural transformation and climate resilience are among the key issues on the agenda at the ninth edition of the Paris Peace Forum, which opened in the French capital on Tuesday.
The two-day gathering, running from November 10 to 11, has brought together government representatives, international organisations, businesses and civil society groups to explore solutions to global challenges under the theme “From Sovereignty to Cooperation.”
For Africa, the discussions come at a critical time as several countries grapple with armed conflicts, food insecurity, climate-related disruptions and the need to mobilise investment for sustainable development.
Soldiers from the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) and the 214th Dynamic Battalion of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) conduct a joint operation codenamed "Brave" along the highway between Burongo and Beni in North Kivu Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo, December 17, 2024. (Photo: VCG)
One of the key sessions scheduled for Wednesday will examine the prospects for peace in Sudan, with a focus on placing civilians at the centre of efforts to resolve the conflict.
The conflict in Sudan has triggered a major humanitarian crisis, displacing millions of people and disrupting essential services, livelihoods and food production.
The discussion will explore how international cooperation and mediation can help advance peace efforts and strengthen civilian protection.
Agriculture is another major priority for Africa at the forum, with a dedicated session examining whether the continent can become a major agricultural power.
Titled “Can Africa Be a Major Agricultural Power? Two Years of ATLAS: Delivering on the Continent's Agricultural Transformation,” the session will assess progress towards agricultural transformation and explore ways to unlock the sector's potential.
A farmer poses for a photo amid her harvested vegetables on her farm in Dema, Zimbabwe, September 5, 2025. (Photo: VCG)
Participants will also examine how technology can help smallholder farmers improve productivity and strengthen food security, highlighting the importance of innovation and investment in Africa's agricultural transformation.
Beyond agriculture, discussions will address responsible investment in mining and how local conditions can influence investment risks, as African countries seek to maximise the benefits of their natural resources. The forum will also explore ocean plastic pollution and the challenges facing coastal communities.
These discussions form part of the broader agenda of the Paris Peace Forum, which seeks to strengthen international cooperation on peace, development and climate action.