06 February 2025 – Midrand, South Africa – The 39th Meeting of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Committee of Focal Points convened to evaluate progress on key governance initiatives and to set the stage for two pivotal events, the APR Forum of Heads of State and Government and the High-Level Presidential Breakfast on the establishment of the Africa Credit Rating Agency (AfCRA). Key individuals from the Focal Points committee made their presence known online while they were briefed on the readiness for these events, highlighting their importance and the significance in furthering Africa’s commitment to self-driven governance solutions and driving greater economic independence.
The meeting saw the approval of the draft 2025-2028 Strategic Plan, which serves as a roadmap for the future of the APRM. This strategy aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, reinforcing the need for a dynamic governance structure to meet the continent’s development aspirations. The Key topic of discussion was the upcoming APR Forum, scheduled for 14 February 2025, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The summit will bring together African Heads of State and Government officials to critically assess the state of governance across the continent, discussing the important challenges and exploring solutions to strengthen African institutions. In parallel, the Presidential High-Level Breakfast on the establishment of the Africa Credit Rating Agency (AfCRA) is expected to play a key role in enhancing Africa’s financial sector by providing an independent and credible platform for rating African economies.
Ambassador Marie-Antoinette Rose Quatre, CEO of the APRM Continental Secretariat, opened the session with a reminder of the APRM’s foundational vision, inspired by former President Thabo Mbeki’s idea of “The Africa we Want.” She highlighted the APRM’s role in advancing governance reforms across the continent, focusing on strengthening national structures and ensuring transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. Ambassador Rose Quatre also addressed the APRM’s ongoing financial sustainability challenges, stressing the critical need for increased Member State contributions and alternative funding sources to ensure the effective implementation of the APRM’s mandate. The APRM continues to strive towards diversifying its financial base, including securing voluntary contributions from its Member States and partners on the continent to reduce reliance on external funding.
On the same note, Ambassador Inonge Mbikusita-Lewanika, Chairperson of the APR Panel of Eminent Persons, expressed her appreciation for the Focal Points’ dedication to the APRM’s success. She stressed the importance of their role in ensuring that APRM activities remain in line with the African Union’s broader goals. She also emphasised the necessity of ensuring continued financial sustainability for the Mechanism to remain effective in the long term.
In her opening statement, H.E. Selma Bakhta Mansouri, Chairperson of the APRM Committee of Focal Points, reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to upholding the principles of good governance, inclusivity and democratic development. She highlighted the significance of the APRM’s work in fostering political stability and transparency across Africa. H.E. Mansouri also applauded the progress made by Member States in fulfilling their financial obligations, which ensures the continuity of the APRM’s mission. She urged continued collaboration and engagement to strengthen the Mechanism’s impact.
Looking ahead, the APRM Committee of Focal Points also discussed preparations for the APRM Governance Support Programme, set to launch in 2025. The programme is designed to assist national governments in carrying out governance reforms, advancing the rule of law and strengthening democratic institutions through the implementation of APRM National Programmes of Action (NPoAs). The APRM Forum of Heads of State and Government and the Presidential Breakfast on AfCRA represent a critical opportunity for African leaders to consolidate achievements, share best practices, and work collaboratively towards realising the African Union’s vision for an integrated and prosperous Africa.
Issued by the APRM Continental Secretariat.
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