Midrand – 5 June 2025 – The African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Continental Secretariat has marked the first anniversary of Ambassador Marie-Antoinette Rose-Quatre’s tenure as Chief Executive Officer with a reflective and forward-looking staff engagement, highlighting a year of transformation, growth, and renewed purpose. The event brought together staff and leadership in a spirit of unity and shared commitment.
Since assuming office, Ambassador Rose-Quatre has led the APRM through a period of institutional strengthening and strategic repositioning. In her address, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Continental Secretariat and reflected on the accomplishments and hurdles of her first year. She also emphasized the ongoing need to address financial and human resource challenges, calling for a collective shift in mindset and a renewed focus on professionalism, discipline, and teamwork to ensure a resilient and future-ready organisation.
Several colleagues offered tributes and insights into the CEO’s leadership. Dr. Rachel Mukamunana highlighted the successful leadership transition and internal improvements made under Ambassador Rose-Quatre’s guidance. Mr. Damien Thesee, Chief of Staff, praised the emphasis on teamwork and professional integrity as key drivers of APRM’s progress.
A staff-produced video tribute captured key milestones of the past year, including enhanced institutional visibility, organisational reforms, and strengthened strategic planning. A second video, featuring staff, Focal Points, partners, and national structures representatives, documented the Secretariat’s achievements and challenges, while also calling attention to the
critical role of political will from Participating States in advancing APRM’s recommendations and objectives.
Interventions from various staff members provided a comprehensive overview of the APRM’s progress and strategic priorities. Mr. Dalmar Jama outlined the financial challenges currently facing the organisation and detailed ongoing efforts to secure sustainable funding. Mr. Jimmy
Kadongola presented an overview of resource mobilisation efforts with key partners, particularly the European Union and the African Development Bank, developments that signal brighter financial prospects for the Mechanism. Mr. Batlokoa Makong highlighted the APRM’s growing visibility across the continent and underscored the opportunities emerging from ongoing shifts in the international landscape. Mr. Jean Adou highlighted advances in human resource management, emphasising improvements in transparency, collaboration, and staff morale. Dr. McBride Nkhalamba reflected on the critical importance of trust, patience, and teamwork, underscoring the need for internal cohesion as the APRM continues to evolve and pursue its mission.
In his remarks, Communications Coordinator Mr. Constantin Lebogo delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks to the CEO on behalf of the staff, highlighting the shared responsibility of the team in addressing challenges and advancing the APRM’s mission. His message captured the essence of the event—renewed dedication, unity, and collective accountability.
Closing the meeting, Ambassador Marie-Antoinette Rose-Quatre offered final reflections, expressing confidence in the team’s ability to meet future challenges and continue strengthening the APRM’s role on the continent. More than a celebration of progress, the anniversary served as a reaffirmation of the organisation’s core values. With a continued focus on professionalism, collaboration, and good governance, the APRM is well-positioned to build on its achievements and expand its impact throughout Africa.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact: APRM Continental Secretariat at info@aprm-au.org.
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