Pretoria – 19 March 2026 – The African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Continental Secretariat, in partnership with the University of Pretoria and the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA), convened a public lecture on economic governance and credit ratings as part of activities marking the 23rd Anniversary of the APRM. Held at the University of Pretoria, the event brought together government officials, academics, diplomats, students, and development practitioners to engage in dialogue on Africa’s financial architecture and sustainable development.
The lecture was delivered by Dr. Misheck Mutize, APRM Lead Expert on Credit Ratings, who highlighted the profound impact of credit ratings on African economies. He emphasised that ratings directly influence borrowing costs, investor perceptions, and access to development finance, making them a critical issue for the continent. Dr. Mutize also pointed out the urgent need for the establishment of the Africa Credit Rating Agency (AfCRA), aimed at providing fair, transparent, and context-sensitive assessments that reflect African realities.
In her remarks, H.E. Amb. Marie-Antoinette Rose-Quatre, CEO of the APRM Continental Secretariat, noted that AfCRA represents a strategic step toward strengthening Africa’s financial credibility and supporting sustainable development. She highlighted that such an institution would improve access to finance while promoting investor confidence through assessments tailored to the continent’s unique economic context.
A message of support from the Minister Buthelezi of the Department of Public Service and Administration of South Africa further reinforced the importance of strong governance, sound public financial management, and institutional capacity in enhancing economic governance across Africa.
In his opening statement, H.E. Amos Lugoloobi, Minister of State for Finance, Planning and Economic Development of Uganda and Chairperson of the APR Committee of Focal Points, reaffirmed the APRM’s 23-year legacy as a trusted platform for governance assessments. He highlighted the challenge of high borrowing costs faced by African countries, often driven by rating methodologies that do not fully reflect domestic reforms and economic realities. Stressing the need for strengthened analytical capacity and context-sensitive assessments, he pointed out the strategic importance of establishing an AfCRA to enhance Africa’s voice in global finance, reduce risk premiums, and expand access to development finance.
The lecture provided a platform for participants to discuss pressing issues, including debt management, borrowing costs, and the role of governance in shaping Africa’s financial architecture. Beyond its immediate focus, the event highlighted the APRM’s ongoing commitment to promoting good governance, accountability, and sustainable development across the continent through peer learning, policy dialogue, and governance assessments.
Through initiatives such as this lecture, the APRM continues to promote informed dialogue, raise awareness, and inspire collaborative solutions to strengthen Africa’s economic and institutional frameworks.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact the APRM Continental Secretariat at info@aprm-au.org.
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