BANDUNG AFRICA ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
Period: January 1, 2026 – May 8, 2026

I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Since the commencement of the 2026 calendar, Bandung Africa, under the visionary leadership of Judge Peter Herbert OBE, with fellow co-chairs, has significantly accelerated its diplomatic and advocacy footprint.
The first five months of the year have been defined by high-level international representation, the expansion of the “6th Region” diaspora framework, and rigorous technical preparation for the landmark Addis Ababa Conference 2026.

II. KEY DIPLOMATIC ENGAGEMENTS

• Consultation with the International Organization for Migration (IOM):
  A strategic engagement focused on the complexities of African migration, human rights, and the role of the diaspora in continental development. Discussions emphasized the protection of migrants and the “back to Africa” movement as a catalyst for economic growth.
• Mission to the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia: A high-level meeting with H.E. Witjaksono Adji, Indonesian Ambassador to Kenya, to revitalize the “Bandung Spirit” through South-South cooperation. The dialogue centered on educational exchange, including the Indonesian AID Scholarship (TIAS), and shared historical solidarity.
• United Nations Permanent Forum on People of African Descent (April 2024): Bandung Africa was prominently represented at the 5th Session in Geneva. Alongside MP Bell Ribeiro-Addy, Co-Chair Judge Peter Herbert OBE and Ms Aza, Youth secretariat in UK reaffirmed the “Bandung Spirit,” bridging the 1955 principles with AU Agenda 2063 to champion global sovereignty and justice.
• Mission to the Barbados High Commission (May 2026): A strategic meeting with H.E. Alex McDonald strengthened ties between East Africa and the Caribbean. Discussions focused on restitution, climate justice, and a proposed MOU covering joint lectures on the Arab and Transatlantic slave trades and sports diplomacy through Road Tennis.
• Parliamentary Advocacy on Restitution: Judge Peter Herbert OBE addressed the UK House of Commons, emphasizing the urgent mission to repatriate over 5,000 identified Kenyan artifacts. The address framed restitution not as a request, but as a mandatory restoration of African dignity.

III. ACADEMIC & ADVOCACY HIGHLIGHTS

• Seminar on Freedom of Speech (March 2026): A joint session with the Mombasa Law Society and BIEA examined the state of civil liberties across Africa, fostering a critical dialogue between legal practitioners and activists.
• Hybrid Webinar on African Migration (February 2026): This session explored the complexities of migration, from asylum seekers and students to the growing trend of “back to Africa” diaspora settlers in Ghana and Kenya.
• Climate & Youth Empowerment: Ongoing initiatives at the Karen C Primary School continue to integrate environmental education with leadership training, reflecting our commitment to grassroots impact.

III. STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS & SOCIAL IMPACT

• Empowering Young Women (EYW) Initiative: In a cornerstone partnership with EYW, Bandung Africa held a high-level forum at the British Institute in Eastern Africa (BIEA). The “Empowering Young Women through Education” project remains a priority, focusing on bridging the gender gap in leadership and providing sustainable educational pathways for young African women.
• Legal & Academic Advocacy:
• Seminar on Freedom of Speech: Hosted in collaboration with the Mombasa Law Society, examining the intersection of civil liberties and democratic governance.
• Decolonizing the Curriculum: Ongoing collaborations with the British Council and 6th Region TZ to transform African educational frameworks.

IV. STRATEGIC ROADMAP: ADDIS ABABA 2026

The first quarter saw the official launch of the Bandung Africa Conference 2026 (November 19–21) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

• Partnerships: Formed strategic alliances with Makuta Law Firm and 6th Region TZ.
• Youth Focus: Designated November 21, 2026, as a day dedicated exclusively to Youth Leadership.

V. CONCLUSION

Bandung Africa remains steadfast in its mission to empower African freedom and justice. As we move into the second half of 2026, our focus shifts toward finalizing technical protocols for our regional sports events and expanding our hybrid webinar series to include a deeper focus on the decolonization of African curricula.

Respectfully Submitted,
Mathew k Samuel
Diplomatic Liaison Officer 
Bandung Africa