Andysen Agaba Calls for Strategic African Leadership in Shifting Global Order
Delivering a keynote address titled “Africa in a Changing Global Order,” Agaba emphasized that Africa is increasingly becoming central to global decision-making, particularly in areas such as trade, security, and geopolitical partnerships.
Ugandan policy analyst Andysen Agaba has called for stronger African agency in global affairs, urging the continent to transition from passive participation to strategic leadership as the international system undergoes significant transformation.
Delivering a keynote address titled “Africa in a Changing Global Order,” Agaba emphasized that Africa is increasingly becoming central to global decision-making, particularly in areas such as trade, security, and geopolitical partnerships.
His remarks come at a time of intensifying global competition and shifting alliances, trends he said present both opportunities and responsibilities for African states.
Agaba recently completed an Advanced Executive Certificate in Foreign Policy Analysis from the Lincoln Institute of Diplomacy and International Relations in partnership with the Center for Policy and Strategic Studies (CPSS) Africa. He noted that the program strengthened his expertise in diplomacy, global strategy, and international relations.
He also expressed gratitude to the U.S. Embassy Kampala for providing financial support worth approximately USD 13,000, describing the contribution as a demonstration of commitment to building policy capacity and empowering emerging leaders in international affairs.
“Africa is no longer on the margins of global affairs it is increasingly central to them,” Agaba said, adding that decisions made about the continent today will significantly influence the future of the global system.
He stressed that Africa’s growing relevance must be matched with deliberate action, including the development of coherent foreign policy frameworks, stronger diplomatic engagement, and increased investment in research and policy institutions.
Agaba further highlighted the need for a unified African voice in regional and multilateral platforms, noting that fragmentation continues to weaken the continent’s bargaining power on the global stage.
Reflecting on his engagements during the program, including interactions with William W. Popp, Agaba underscored the importance of dialogue and cooperation in advancing shared international goals.
“Diplomacy remains our most powerful tool not only for managing conflict but for building partnerships, fostering development, and promoting stability,” he said.
He challenged African leaders and policymakers to rethink their approach to global engagement, posing critical questions about whether the continent will merely respond to global shifts or actively shape them.
Agaba concluded by reaffirming his commitment to contributing to Africa’s diplomatic and policy landscape through research, dialogue, and strategic engagement.
Analysts say such perspectives reflect a growing emphasis among young African professionals on positioning the continent as a decisive actor in global governance, rather than a peripheral participant.
