What is the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) and what does it do?
The African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) was established in 2003 by the African Union Heads of State and Government as a unique, voluntary instrument for promoting good governance across the continent. Its primary objective is to foster practices that contribute to political stability, robust economic growth, sustainable and inclusive development, and accelerated regional and continental integration. The APRM aims to address systemic governance and development challenges among AU Member States by promoting adherence to democratic principles, human rights, and sound socio-economic policies.
The Mechanism currently assesses governance in six thematic areas: (i) Democracy and Political Governance; (ii) Economic Governance and Management; (iii) Corporate Governance; (iv) Socio-Economic Development; (v) State Resilience to Shocks and Disasters; and (vi) E-Governance. Participating countries undertake a comprehensive and participatory review process, involving consultations with government institutions, the private sector, civil society, and other stakeholders. This culminates in a high-level peer review by Heads of State and Government, reinforcing collective accountability and mutual learning across the continent.”
A key feature of the APRM is that it is home-grown. This, as well as its voluntary nature, is important in buttressing and consolidating Africa’s ownership of its development agenda. As an assessment and monitoring tool, the APRM can also help to track progress towards meeting regional and international development aspirations and commitments including AU’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The African Union and the Heads of State are cognizant of this and in January 2017 expanded the mandate of the Mechanism to include monitoring and evaluation of the African Union Agenda 2063 and the UN SDGs. This attests to the confidence bestowed upon the Mechanism and will contribute to the universalization of the APRM where all AU member states will become members of the APRM.
How many African Union member states have voluntarily acceded to the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM)?
As of May 2025, the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) has 44 Member States.
These are African Union member states that have voluntarily acceded to the APRM to undergo peer reviews on governance and socio-economic development practices.
How can I contact the APRM?
Physical Address
230 15th Road Randjespark, Midrand Johannesburg, Gauteng South Africa 1685
Tel: +27 11 256 3401
Email: info@aprm-au.org
