The much-anticipated opening ceremony for the Global Peace and Leadership Conference (GPLC) Africa 2024 has been scrapped following the anti-tax protests that erupted and saw irate demonstrators breach the Kenya National Assembly on Tuesday.

The decision, reached after extensive deliberation by GPLC's top leadership, comes in light of the loss of life and injuries sustained during the protests.

"In light of the events over the last two days, the loss of life and the casualties of the protests at the Kenya National Assembly in the afternoon of 25th June 2024," a press communique released by the GPLC Africa 2024 organizing committee stated, "the organising committee...regrets to announce the cancellation of the official opening ceremony."

Originally scheduled for Wednesday, at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Nairobi, the ceremony was intended to mark the official commencement of the conference.

However, the gravity of the situation necessitated a shift in focus.

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While the opening ceremony has been cancelled, the conference itself will continue.

GPLC, steadfast in its commitment to fostering dialogue and peacebuilding, will proceed with the scheduled track sessions.

These sessions, planned for Wednesday afternoon and the entirety of Thursday, will delve into critical global issues, leadership strategies, and pathways towards achieving sustainable peace and development within the African context.

For those unable to attend the sessions in person, GPLC Africa 2024 has provided a virtual link to facilitate remote participation.

The communique expressed condolences to the bereaved families and well wishes for a speedy recovery to those injured.

It further emphasized hope for national healing and a unified path forward for Kenya.

"We mourn those who have died, pray for a full recovery for those who were injured, and hope for healing for this nation that it can find a way forward towards a future that benefits all its people," the statement concluded.

The Global Peace Foundation, a co-convener of the conference, extended its gratitude to all participants, speakers, and partners who have contributed to GPLC Africa 2024.

Additionally, appreciation was conveyed to the Kenyan government and its people for their support in the lead-up to the conference.

The Foundation expressed its hope for a swift and peaceful resolution to the ongoing national issues.


While the opening ceremony's cancellation is undoubtedly a setback, GPLC Africa 2024 remains committed to its core mission: fostering dialogue, promoting peace, and charting a course towards a more peaceful and prosperous Africa.