IPA African Chapter Meeting Strengthens Regional Cooperation in eSwatini
The International Police Association (IPA) African Chapter convened in the Kingdom of Eswatini in February 2026 for an important regional meeting aimed at strengthening cooperation among African IPA sections and shaping the future of the organisation across the continent.
Hosted by IPA Eswatini Section, the meeting brought together representatives from IPA member countries across Africa, including South Africa, Kenya, Seychelles, Mauritius, Botswana, Mozambique and Lesotho. The gathering provided a valuable platform for discussion, collaboration, and strategic planning among IPA leaders in the region.
The meeting was further strengthened by the presence of members of the International Executive Board (IEB), who attended the event and engaged directly with African representatives. Their participation underscored the importance of the African Chapter within the broader international IPA structure and reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting growth and cooperation across the continent.
Throughout the meeting, delegates discussed key topics affecting the development of the IPA in Africa. These included strengthening membership structures, improving communication between sections, expanding training and professional development opportunities for members, and increasing participation in international IPA programmes such as seminars and youth initiatives. Delegates also explored ways to enhance collaboration between African sections and encourage greater engagement with the global IPA network.
A strong focus was placed on building sustainable growth for the African Chapter. Representatives shared experiences and best practices from their respective sections, highlighting both challenges and successes in developing IPA activities within their countries. These discussions helped identify practical strategies to further strengthen the presence and impact of the IPA throughout Africa.
The meeting also reaffirmed the core values of the International Police Association—friendship, cultural exchange, and professional cooperation among police officers worldwide. Delegates emphasised the importance of maintaining strong relationships between member countries and promoting opportunities for members to connect through professional, educational, and social initiatives.
In addition to the formal discussions, the event provided an opportunity for delegates to experience the hospitality and culture of Eswatini. The hosts ensured that participants enjoyed a warm welcome and an engaging programme that fostered camaraderie among attending members.
The IPA South Africa Section expressed its appreciation to the IPA Eswatini Section for successfully hosting the meeting and for their dedication to strengthening the African Chapter.
As the African Chapter continues to grow, the outcomes of the February 2026 meeting are expected to contribute significantly to the future development of the International Police Association across the continent, reinforcing cooperation between member sections and promoting the IPA spirit of Servo per Amikeco — Service Through Friendship.