From Sudan & Somalia to Rwanda & Kenya: an Ambassador's Insights into East Africa

Hosted by: AIIA Victoria

The event will start on: Thursday, 19 May 2011 5:30 PM

And will end on: Thursday, 19 May 2011 7:00 PM

At Dyason House

124 Jolimont Road East , Melbourne Victoria

03 9654 7271     events.vic@aiia.asn.au

Posted by: vic   

Africa is beset with many challenges, not the least of them being the creation of a new state of Southern Sudan after many years of conflict.  Neighbouring Somalia suffers anarchy, piracy and extremism.  Kenya, the major regional power, endures serious tribal and political divisions. 

Based in Nairobi, David Collins will give an overview of political developments in East Africa including the situations in Kenya, Uganda and Somalia as well as his perspective of the newly emerging Southern Sudan.  Issues such as the recent election in Uganda, the implementation of a new constitution in Kenya, the proceedings against six prominent Kenyans by the International Criminal Court, developments in the African Union and the scourge of piracy will be primary subjects in the ambassador's East African tour d'horizon.

H.E. Mr David Collins was appointed Canadian High Commissioner to Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda; Ambassador to Burundi, Eritrea and Somalia; and Permanent Representative to the UN organisations based in Nairobi, in August last year.  This is his fourth tour as a head of mission having been posted to Romania, Bulgaria and Moldova from 1998-2000; Pakistan from 2005-2008; and Malaysia from 2008-2010.  His Excellency has served extensively in other locations including the US, Poland, Turkey, NATO and Korea.  In Ottawa he has served twice in the Europe branch, as senior departmental assistant to the International Trade Minister, Director General International and Industry Programs at the Department of National Defence, and Inspector General of the Foreign Service.  He is a former reserve naval officer.

Event flyer:   AIIAV 2011 Collins David H.E. Mr 19.05.11 (132.19 kB)

Payment is preferred at the door:

• AIIA members $20
• Non-members $30
• Student AIIA members $10
• Student non-members $15

If you plan to attend this function, please advise us at least 1 day before the event.

Snacks and refreshments will be served.