Africa’s peace needs cultural diplomacy—Pratt

The former Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs of Sierra Leone, Dr. Memunatu Pratt, has underscored the importance of cultural diplomacy as a vital instrument for fostering sustainable peace across the African continent.

Delivering the keynote address at the 2025 Pan African Leadership Symposium and Awards (PALESH) held in Lagos, Nigeria, Dr. Pratt spoke on the theme: “The Role of Good Governance and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Mechanisms in Consolidating Peaceful Coexistence in Africa—A Conceptual Approach.” She highlighted the transformative power of cultural diplomacy as a form of soft power capable of promoting mutual understanding, resolving conflicts, and bridging ideological divides within Africa.

Dr. Pratt emphasised that cultural exchanges through tourism, the arts, education, and intercultural dialogue play a pivotal role in nurturing peace and cooperation in today’s complex global environment. She noted that sustainable peace goes beyond the mere absence of conflict; it entails the presence of justice, equity, wellbeing, and shared values—fundamental elements of what is often referred to as “positive peace.”

Drawing on global examples such as the Fulbright Program, Alliance Française, and the British Council, she illustrated how cultural institutions have long been instrumental in enhancing international relations and harmony. She urged African leaders to prioritise cultural diplomacy in their peacebuilding strategies by promoting inclusive dialogue, educational initiatives, and strategic deployment of soft power to advance unity, stability, and sustainable development.

In recognition of her enduring contributions to peace advocacy and cultural development, Dr. Pratt was honoured with the prestigious Commander of Peace Award.

The PALESH Nigeria 2025 conference seeks to address some of the continent’s most pressing challenges related to peace, security, and economic stability. Held under the overarching theme “Adaptive Leadership & Stability in Africa: Prospects & Challenges,” the symposium explores five critical areas:

• The Implications of the Withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from ECOWAS

• Mediation, Reconciliation, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanisms

• Cultural Diplomacy: A Conceptual Approach to Sustainable Peace through Tourism

• The Role of Traditional Institutions in Promoting Peaceful Coexistence

• The Nexus between Good Governance, Security, and National Development

Distinguished speakers at the event included

• Professor P.L.O. Lumumba, Former CEO of the Kenya Anti-Corruption Commission

• Her Excellency Chief Dr Jewel Howard Taylor, Immediate Past Vice President of Liberia and Matron of UNIPGC Africa

• Hon. Grace Naledi Mandisa Pandor, Former South African Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation

• Senator Dr Grace Folashade Bent, CON, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, University of Jos

• Mr Samuel Kalkoumdo, Special Adviser to the President of Burkina Faso

• Professor Roland Otaro, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN)

• Dr Memunatu Pratt, Former Minister of Culture and Tourism, Sierra Leone

• Major General Dayo Olukoju (Rtd), Former Corps of Signals, Nigerian Army

• His Royal Majesty Dr Olusegun Aderemi, Atayero of Aramoko Ekiti Kingdom, Ekiti State

• Bimbo Akintola, Renowned Nollywood Actress

The sessions were moderated by Amarachi Ubani, a seasoned diplomatic journalist and anchor with Channels Television, Nigeria.

According to the convener of the symposium, His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Jonathan Ojadah, global president and permanent representative to the United Nations for the United Nations International Peace and Governance Council (UNIPGC), the event also served as a platform to honour African leaders. Among the dignitaries recognised were

• His Excellency Ambassador Selestine G. Kakele, High Commissioner and Tanzanian Ambassador to Nigeria

• His Excellency Retired Brigadier General Ambassador Dr Chief Williams Wallace, Honorary Consul of Bermuda and Antigua to Nigeria

• His Excellency George Muhali Imbuwa, High Commissioner and Zambian Ambassador to Nigeria

• His Excellency Ambassador Julius F. Sandy, Sierra Leone High Commissioner to Nigeria

• Beatrice Koko Kallay, Head of Liaison, Sierra Leone High Commission, Lagos, Nigeria

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