The 2nd International Congress on Security Governance, Innovation and Development in Africa (CIGSIDA 2026) took place in Agadir, Morocco, from November 2-4. Organized by Ibn Zohr University and the Afro-Mediterranean Institute for Studies and Risk Analysis (IAMAR), the congress brought together academics, researchers, institutional leaders and experts from over 28 countries. The event aimed to strengthen dialogue between scientific research, professional expertise and public decision-making.
The congress focused on transformations in security, justice and public action in a context of changing risks, digital mutations and the rise of artificial intelligence. Participants, including experts and officials from the UN and African Union, discussed conditions for effective, responsible and rights-respecting security, African challenges and means to consolidate international cooperation and strengthen capacities. The event also highlighted Morocco's experience and security governance challenges in Africa.
The congress aimed to promote dialogue between scientific research, professional expertise and public decision-making, with a focus on governance, institutional responsibility and human security. Morocco was designated as the "African champion" in security governance during the opening ceremony. Daniël Prins, director of the UN's Security Sector Reform (SSR) program, made the announcement.
Jon-Hans Coetzer, senior program specialist and team leader at the UN Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), praised Morocco's commitment to continental security. He emphasized that strengthening security and stability in Africa depends on international partnerships, particularly with the scientific community. Coetzer also noted interesting discussions on addressing current transformations, including the emergence of artificial intelligence.
Mohamadi Ouédraogo, security sector reform advisor to the UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), highlighted the congress's importance in bringing together African experts to discuss security governance. He noted that the contributions enriched debates on a growing issue. Several workshops, led by national and international experts, explored topics such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and African cooperation.
The congress included the presentation of trophies to several security officials, academics and experts for their contributions to the event. The discussions and workshops provided a platform for experts to share knowledge and experiences on security governance, innovation and development in Africa. The event demonstrated Morocco's commitment to addressing security challenges in the digital age.
The CIGSIDA 2026 congress demonstrated the importance of international cooperation and knowledge sharing in addressing security challenges in Africa. The event provided a valuable opportunity for experts to engage in discussions and share experiences on promoting effective, responsible and rights-respecting security in the digital era. Morocco's designation as an "African champion" in security governance reflects its commitment to continental security and cooperation.
Key points
- Morocco hosts international congress on security governance, innovation and development in Africa.
- Experts discuss security, justice and public action in the digital era.
- Morocco designated "African champion" in security governance.
