This archive report was first published on 4 November 2019.
As the 21st century unfolds, Africa has a unique opportunity to rise and prosper. The African Union's 2063 blueprint, adopted by Heads of States and Government, envisions a continent where poverty is eradicated, and prosperity is within reach.
However, the institution's reforms, initiated in 2016, have yet to make a significant impact. The reforms aimed to streamline the AU's structures, reduce overlapping mandates, and address financing deficits. But, a year after their adoption, the reforms seem to be stuck in limbo.
During a recent meeting of African thinkers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the challenges facing the continent were discussed. The African Union Commission officials were present, and the state of reforms at the AU was a topic of concern. The meeting highlighted the disconnect between the AU's efforts and the citizens' priorities.
It is clear that the AU's reforms are being done in the people's names, but the people are neither aware nor involved in the process. The Pan-African Parliament, for instance, is a body that represents States, but its activities are not well-known to the citizens. A survey would likely reveal that few people know their country's representatives to the body and what they have deliberated on in the past year.
The continent needs a body that is engaged, representative, and provides avenues for feedback from citizens. Only such a body can help project the continent onto the world map and make it a leading voice in international affairs while spearheading sustained and inclusive development.
