Africa spies say no development without security

Nov 22, 2006 (ADDIS ABABA) — Committee of Intelligence and Security Services of Africa (CISSA) said violence and internal conflicts arising in Africa are the major challenges to Africa’s peace and security.

Socio-economic constraints have become major causes of insecurity, instability and conflicts in several African countries.

CISSA Secretary General, Dennis Thkozani Diomo said CISSA member countries should exert utmost efforts to ensure peace and security as they are key inputs to the continent’s development.

“Security without development would not meet the challenges that the continent faces. We assist to create environment that’s conducive for development,” he said.

According to the Secretary General, the six days conference — held in Addis Ababa — indicated that the negative impact of colonialism, anti-peaceful change of governments and unfair distribution resources, among others are some the challenges of the continent.

Obtaining timely information is significant to tackle insecurity as Africa has faced with multifaceted challenges, he said.

The information would be vital to policy makers to design new procurers, he said, adding meticulous discussion was held on how to prevent and resolve conflicts.

The committee has been assisting member countries in the effort of capacity building and to eliminate various obstacles regarding security, according to the Secretary General.

He indicated that CISSA has embraced 44 member countries, while efforts are underway to increase their number.

CISSA which established it’s headquarter in Addis Ababa, would hold the next conference in Khartoum, Sudan in June 2007.

(ST)