Africa Prioritizes Development Security

Governments across Africa are increasingly focused on securing chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) materials as their economies industrialize and adopt new technologies. For decades, security concerns centered on armed groups and terrorism, but expanding healthcare, mining, and trade mean African nations now handle larger quantities of sensitive materials.

The Africa Shield 2026 workshop, held in Tunis, Tunisia, brought together over 100 officials to strengthen CBRN security through training and coordination, aligning with UN Security Council Resolution 1540. The program represents a shift from responding to CBRN incidents to proactively preventing vulnerabilities.

However, implementation remains a challenge. While many African countries have legal frameworks in place, they often lack funding, personnel, and equipment needed for effective oversight and enforcement, particularly given the expansion of trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area. Strengthening national capabilities and regional networks, rather than relying on external partners, is seen as crucial for long-term success.