Midrand – 21 August 2025 - The African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Continental Secretariat had successfully convened a virtual workshop on 20 August 2025 in Midrand, South Africa, to assess and strengthen the functionality of APRM National Structures across 44 Member States. The event brought together representatives from national governing councils, focal points, national secretariats, and the APRM Continental Secretariat, advancing a collaborative space to review progress, share experiences, and identify areas for improvement.
The workshop featured key presentations from the APRM Continental Secretariat, which provided a comprehensive overview of the existence, functionality, and operational readiness of National Structures. A detailed mapping of participating countries highlighted varying levels of engagement, from “very active” to “dormant,” and emphasised the progress made as well as the challenges still facing some Participating States.
Speaking on behalf of the APRM CEO, Dr. Rachel Mukamunana emphasised the importance of strong Focal Points, Governing Councils, and Secretariats in driving governance reforms. She highlighted that the strength of the APRM lies not only in its wide membership but in the vitality of its national processes, including the effective implementation of National Programmes of Action. The workshop was described as a call to action to renew political will, strengthen institutional frameworks, and ensure that governance reviews translate into meaningful results for citizens.
Contributions from technical directors highlight the need to address common challenges, including limited resources, gaps in legal and institutional frameworks, unclear roles, and inconsistent stakeholder engagement. The APRM introduced a framework to evaluate national structures, focusing on criteria such as effectiveness, participation in statutory meetings, legal status, political commitment, and follow-up on country review recommendations.
The workshop concluded with a shared commitment to enhance the capacity of national structures, promote inclusivity, and ensure the APRM continues to serve as a premier tool for governance assessment in Africa. By reinforcing these structures and advancing collaboration, the APRM aims to support Member States in achieving the broader aspirations of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact: APRM Continental Secretariat at info@aprm-au.org.
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