Context
In Africa’s fragile states and (post-)conflict countries, armed groups, organised crime, electoral unrest, and high crime rates challenge police institutions. These authorities often lack staff, equipment, and training, leading to low public confidence. Limited regional police partnerships and poor coordination in AU peace missions exacerbate these issues.
Objective
Strengthen the capacities of national and regional police institutions in Africa’s (post-)conflict countries and fragile states to boost public confidence among rural, urban, and border populations.
Approach
Since 2009, GIZ has implemented a programme for the German Federal Foreign Office supporting police reform in Africa. The Police Programme Africa collaborates with police institutions, an immigration authority, the AU, and regional organisations to improve management processes and training. It enhances knowledge in areas like forensics to combat organised crime and strengthen border security and increases regional police coordination.
Results
The programme has strengthened police management capacities through advisory services and training, establishing international standards. Training courses have improved operational capability, boosting motivation and loyalty. Construction and renovation of police stations and border checkpoints in Niger and Chad and establishing communications networks and an emergency call centre in South Sudan, have fostered cooperative relationships and improved police presence in remote regions.
Support for police academies, advice on training strategies, and training for staff in Mauritania and Côte d’Ivoire have improved officer qualifications. Ongoing advice on AU peace missions has enhanced coordination and communication between AU police components and regional organisations.