From 09–11 July 2025, UNOAU, in collaboration with the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), provided technical support to the AU in assessing knowledge and skill gaps in the performance of staff functions within AU-mandated and authorized Peace Support Operations. The workshop was held at KAIPTC in Accra, Ghana.

The primary objective of the workshop was to review the existing training curriculum for AU PSO Staff Officers, to ensure that future training interventions are targeted and responsive to identified gaps. This is critical to enhancing the effectiveness of mandate implementation in AU Peace Operations.

The assessment focused on key functional areas, specifically the administrative, logistics, and operational responsibilities of personnel serving in staff roles. Insights gained from the workshop will inform a revised pilot course, scheduled for delivery by the end of 2025, targeting personnel from AU Troop and Police Contributing Countries (T/PCCs).

Additionally, the AU is expected to develop relevant policy documents to further streamline the roles and responsibilities of Staff Officers in PSOs, ensuring more coherent and effective mission support structures. The workshop brought together subject matter experts from the AU Peace Support Operations Division, UNOAU, KAIPTC, and the AU Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia.