Pursuant to the implementation of the Maputo Strategic Work Plan (2016-2020) for the enhancement of the African Standby Force (ASF), the African Union, with the support of ACCORD, published the ASF Exercise Planning Guide that seeks to provide guidance on exercise planning and management for the ASF, and maintain operational readiness in all components of a Peace Support Operation (PSO).
The AU Commission hosted the ASF Exercise Planning Guide Dissemination Workshop on 18 October 2021, in an attempt to share the knowledge and raise awareness of the ASF Exercise Planning Guide. Member States, Regional Economic Communities and Regional Mechanisms (RECs/RMs), Training Centres of Excellence and Training Institutions (TCEs/TIs), AU mandated and/or authorized Peace Operations, including ACCORD/TfP attended the virtual session. Key aspects of the ASF Exercise Planning Guide, were highlighted during the session, providing guidance on the planning and conduct of future ASF exercises in preparation for PSOs.
To ensure the operationalization of the ASF, the guidance on exercise planning and management is instrumental, and remains a critical component in enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of PSOs. ACCORD/TfP will continue programme support, in enhancing and developing the capabilities of AU PSOs.
