Addis Ababa, October 25, 2026 (FMC) — The 12th Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa concluded in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, with African leaders and experts emphasizing the need to translate dialogue and continental commitments into concrete action to address the continent’s peace and security challenges.
Held under the theme “Pathways to Peace in Africa: Economic Sovereignty and Geopolitical Transformation,” the three-day forum brought together current and former African leaders and experts to discuss security challenges, economic sovereignty, continental integration and Africa’s geopolitical future.
In his closing remarks, Tana Forum Board Chairperson and former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama stressed that discussions must lead to practical results.
“It’s a good thing to talk, it’s a good thing to dialogue, but it is better to act. We need to move from dialogue to action,” Mahama said.
He identified the presentation of the State of Peace and Security in Africa Report as a major outcome of the forum, describing it as an important resource for assessing conflicts across the continent and developing practical responses to both emerging and persistent security challenges.
Mahama emphasized that sustainable peace cannot be secured through military deployments or standby forces alone. He underscored the importance of deeper economic integration, regional solidarity, expanded cross-border trade and coordinated diplomacy to address the structural causes of conflict.
He also highlighted the need to tackle social marginalization and build inclusive societies that create opportunities for young people, women and persons with disabilities.
On governance, Mahama stressed that political authority should be exercised in ways that improve citizens’ lives, arguing that leadership should be measured by its contribution to public welfare rather than the possession of power itself.
He further emphasized continental unity and closer cooperation with countries of the Global South to address shared challenges and advance Africa’s interests in international affairs.
The forum concluded with a high-level panel featuring former presidents and prime ministers. Drawing on discussions throughout the event, the panel examined Africa’s geopolitical and economic future and the priorities requiring urgent action.
Mahama reaffirmed the forum’s role as a platform for high-level dialogue on African peace and security, thanking the Tana Secretariat, organizers, partners and sponsors for their contributions. He also expressed appreciation to Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and the Ethiopian government for hosting the forum and extending hospitality to participants.
In closing, Mahama challenged participants to demonstrate measurable progress when they return to Bahir Dar for the next edition of the forum.
“Let us return to Bahir Dar next year and say that the tide is turning for Africa, that our conflicts are ending, and opportunities are being created for all our people,” he said.