AT the African Union (AU) retreat hosted by Kenyan President William Ruto in Nairobi on Monday, Ghana’s President John Mahama made a strong case for transformative reforms to enhance the AU’s effectiveness, self-reliance, and relevance. The retreat, convened to reflect on the AU’s future, brought together leaders to address pressing issues facing the continent.
He emphasised the need for the AU to evolve in response to Africa’s challenges, noting that its founding vision of unity, prosperity, and self-reliance must remain a guiding principle.
AU reform agenda: a call for change
The Ghanaian leader underscored the importance of reforming the AU to meet the continent’s growing needs. While applauding milestones like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and peacekeeping efforts through initiatives such as the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA), he highlighted the organisation’s limitations in decision-making and financial independence.
‘Our decision-making processes must become more agile, timely, and results-oriented,’ Mahama stated. He called for streamlining bureaucratic inefficiencies, clarifying mandates, and eliminating redundancies to ensure the AU can deliver tangible results.
Financial autonomy was another key focus of his address. Mahama noted that the AU’s over-reliance on external funding undermines its independence. He urged member states to expedite the implementation of the Kigali Decision on financing the union, calling it essential for Africa’s sovereignty and progress.
Addressing Africa’s challenges
Mahama highlighted several critical challenges facing the continent, including youth unemployment, food insecurity, climate change, governance issues, and regional conflicts. He called for the AU to strengthen its capacity for conflict prevention and resolution, especially by adequately resourcing the African Standby Force and addressing emerging threats such as terrorism and cybercrime.
‘Africa’s future lies in its youth,’ Mahama asserted, pointing out that over 60 percent of the continent’s population is under 25. He urged leaders to empower young people and women through institutional frameworks that enable their participation in governance.
Harnessing trade and technology
The Ghanaian president praised the AfCFTA for laying the groundwork for a single African market but noted the need to eliminate barriers to trade, harmonise regulations, and invest in infrastructure. He also advocated for accelerating the adoption of technological innovations and digital transformation to drive economic growth and inclusion.
Mahama highlighted the importance of implementing the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), which would facilitate seamless trade across the continent.
Leadership and unity key to progress
Mahama urged African leaders to prioritise the collective good over individual interests. He emphasised the need for partnerships with civil society, the private sector, and the African diaspora to drive reforms and ensure accountability.
‘This is a shared responsibility,’ Mahama said. ‘Together, we can and will shape a stronger, more resilient, and united Africa.’
