Leaders and development experts gathered in Aswan, Egypt from October 19–20 for the 5th edition of the Aswan Forum for Sustainable Peace and Development, focusing on African-led solutions to global challenges. The event was covered live by consulting firm WhaleZ, bringing fresh perspectives on peace, development and regional cooperation.
The Forum opened with a high-level session titled “Navigating the Crossroads: Restoring Trust in the Rules-Based International Order”, where African policy-makers and UN officials emphasised that multilateralism must be made more inclusive, just and reflective of African priorities. Subsequent panels delved into pressing regional issues, including a focused discussion on Sudan under the title “Restoring Hope: Aligning Efforts for Achieving Peace and Development in Sudan”.
A standout session examined technology’s role, titled “An Algorithm for Peace: The Dual Power of Artificial Intelligence in Africa’s Security and Development”, exploring how AI can support early-warning systems, mediation, and smart public-service delivery, while also cautioning about ethical risks and digital divides. Another major discussion, “Bridging Continents, Shaping Futures: The Red Sea’s Promise for Arab-African Economic Integration”, highlighted trade corridors, infrastructure and how African-Arab cooperation can fuel growth and jobs.
The forum did not shy away from tough topics: health, food and water security, forced displacement, and women/youth inclusion featured prominently. A roundtable titled “Changing Lives Building Futures: Leveraging National Responses to Forced Displacement” brought together migration experts, youth leaders and humanitarian actors to examine how national systems and partnerships can better respond to displacement.
Concluding the two-day event, delegates approved the “Aswan Conclusions on Sustainable Peace and Development” — a roadmap of commitments for the coming year. With WhaleZ delivering live coverage, the Forum signalled a clearer direction: Africa and its partners are seeking more integrated, locally-owned development solutions—not just traditional aid.[1]
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[1] https://www.aswanforum.org/ctrl/images/img/uploads/859_23103316.pdf