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Tag: African Union

  • Nigeria, AU call for respect of sovereignty, unity of Somalia

    Nigeria, AU call for respect of sovereignty, unity of Somalia

    Nigeria and the African Union have called for respect for the Sovereignty, territorial integrity and unity of Somalia.

    The stand follows Israelis recognition of Somaliland, an autonomous region in north-western Somalia that declared independence in 1991 after the collapse of the Somali state.

    Israel has become the first country to have so far done so.

    Reacting to Israel’s action, Nigeria and the AU reaffirmed their support for the sovereignty, unity, and statehood of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

    The Spokesperson Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa in a statement said Nigeria recognizes the Government of Somalia as the legitimate authority representing the Somali people and commends its continued efforts to achieve peace, security, and national reconciliation amidst significance.

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    The statement reads: “The Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of all Member States of the United Nations and the African Union, as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and the Constitutive Act of the African Union.

     “In this regard, Nigeria declares its firm and unequivocal support for the sovereignty, unity, and statehood of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

    “Nigeria recognizes the Government of Somalia as the legitimate authority representing the Somali people and commends its continued efforts to achieve peace, security, and national reconciliation amidst significant challenges. Nigeria stands in solidarity with Somalia and strongly condemns any actions or rhetoric that seeks to undermine its constitutional order and territorial integrity. The Government of Nigeria calls on all regional and international actors to strictly respect Somalia’s sovereignty and to support its institutions in their vital work of rebuilding a stable, prosperous, and resilient nation.

    “We believe that the stability of Somalia is integral to the peace and security of the entire Horn of Africa region and the African continent at large. Therefore, Nigeria remains committed to supporting Somalia through multilateral frameworks and international cooperation.

    “The Government of Nigeria urges international actors to desist from recognising any part of the territory of Somalia as an independent entity. Such actions would only escalate the crisis and should be avoided.”

    The African Union in its reaction criticised Israel’s decision to recognise Somaliland, reaffirming its long-standing position that the breakaway region remains part of Somalia.

    The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Youssouf, in a statement said the bloc had taken note with deep concern of recent developments relating to Somaliland and rejected any attempt to recognise it as an independent state.

    “In this regard, the Chairperson of the Commission unequivocally reaffirms the longstanding and consistent position of the African Union, grounded in the principles enshrined in the Constitutive Act of the African Union, in particular the respect for the intangibility of borders inherited at independence, as affirmed by the 1964 decision of the Organisation of African Unity,” the statement read.

    Youssouf said he firmly rejected any initiative “aimed at recognising Somaliland as an independent entity.

    “Any attempt to undermine the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Somalia runs counter to the fundamental principles of the African Union and risks setting a dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for peace and stability across the continent.”

    He added that Somaliland “remains an integral part of the Federal Republic of Somalia,” a position the AU says is shared by its 55 member states.

    Somaliland, which has governed most of the territory it claims for over decades, has enjoyed relative peace and stability compared to much of Somalia. However, it has not received international recognition, despite sustained lobbying by its leaders. President Abdirahman Abdullahi has made international recognition a top priority since taking office last year.

    Somalia’s federal government condemned Israel’s decision, describing it as an “unlawful step,” and insisted that Somaliland is “an integral, inseparable, and inalienable part” of Somalia.

    The move also drew criticism from neighbouring countries. Egypt said its foreign minister had spoken with his counterparts in Somalia, Turkey, and Djibouti, and that “they underscored their complete rejection of any unilateral measures that could undermine Somali sovereignty or erode the foundations of stability in the country.”

    The AU warned that Israel’s decision risked “setting a dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for peace and stability across the continent,” noting that many African countries are grappling with their own secessionist movements.

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the agreement, describing it as part of Israel’s broader diplomatic outreach.

    He said the agreement with Somaliland “is in the spirit of the Abraham Accords,” adding: “The State of Israel plans to immediately expand its relations with the Republic of Somaliland through extensive cooperation in the fields of agriculture, health, technology, and economy.”

    Netanyahu also invited Abdullahi to visit his office.

    Reacting to Israel’s decision, Somaliland’s president hailed it as a major breakthrough. Calling it a “historic moment,” Abdullahi said in a post on X that the agreement marked the beginning of a “strategic partnership.”

  • AU launches decade of action over call for Africa’s reparations

    AU launches decade of action over call for Africa’s reparations

    The demand by Africans for reparations from the former colonial power has birthed the launch of a long-term initiative by the African Union to address decades of injustices in Africa.

    To address this issue, AU has declared the year 2025 a “Year of Reparations and African Heritage”.

    This decision was made at the 7th African Union Mid-Year Coordination Meeting, held in July, to extend the reparations program into a full decade of action, spanning 2026 to 2036.

    “The African Union (AU) has declared 2025 the ‘Year of Reparations and African Heritage”. Not as a mere slogan, but as an official, high-level mandate. This designation, approved by the AU’s highest bodies, obligates all member states and AU organs to actively work on the issue of reparations throughout the year.

    “Africa’s call for reparations from former colonial powers has transcended activist circles and diplomatic murmurs. It is now a resonant, insistent demand echoing through the halls of the African Union and reaching the heart of Europe, forcing a reckoning with a painful past and an unsustainable present,” it read.

    The AU’s mandate comprises demands for compensation, addressing profound historical and ongoing injustices, such as the transatlantic slave trade, colonialism and its consequences, neocolonialism and systemic injustice.

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    The growing concern of nations like Ghana, the Sahel states, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, and the Central African Republic, demanding apologies and concrete action for historical wrongs, has not gone unnoticed in European capitals.

    A European Parliament member, Barbara Bonte, in her recently submitted inquiry to the European Commission, questioned the efficacy of Brussels’ Africa policy. She demanded to know if the EU has conducted a critical analysis of its strategies and “what specific steps has the Commission taken to revitalise the EU-Africa partnership in a way that factors in the EU’s strategic interests?”

    However, Africa is demanding more than just hollow gestures or endless bureaucratic dialogues designed to stall. Africa calls for honest, direct engagement, mirroring the forthrightness now emanating from the continent.

  • African health leaders strategise for community-basedprimary healthcare

    African health leaders strategise for community-basedprimary healthcare

    Health leaders, policymakers, and development partners from 49 African Union (AU) member states have begun charting a people-centred path for primary healthcare across the continent.

    This emerged in Abuja on Tuesday at the Continental Consultation on Community Health, organised by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) in collaboration with the African Union Commission and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

    The meeting, hosted by Nigeria, seeks to strengthen the foundation of primary health care by scaling up community health worker (CHW) programs across the continent.

    Dr. Muyi Aina, Executive Director of Nigeria’s National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), who emphasised the importance of a people-centred approach, noted, “This consultation is more than a meeting; it is a continental call to action.

    “We are here to validate the 2024 Community Health Landscape Survey and define the roadmap toward reaching the African Union’s target of deploying two million community health workers by 2030.”

    He highlighted Nigeria’s renewed commitment to professionalising community health delivery through a redesigned program to address previous challenges of integration and subnational ownership.

    “About 70,000 community-based health workers will be recruited, trained, and deployed by 2029. We are targeting one health worker per 250 households, reaching 160 million people,” he noted.

    He explained that NPHCDA would support states through time-limited salary subsidies to integrate the workforce into state civil services.

    Already, eight states, including Bauchi, Borno, Niger, Kaduna, Yobe, Zamfara, Katsina, and Ebonyi, have signed on, and five have begun recruitment, he revealed, adding, “We will also provide training, digital tools, job aids, and essential commodities.

    “The Community Health Worker Framework, the Country Profiles, and the Continental Scorecard will only have meaning if they translate into real transformation on the ground”.

    Representing Africa CDC, Dr. Landry Dongmo Tsague, Director for Primary Health Care, underscored the significance of the meeting and praised Nigeria’s leadership.

    “Today, we reaffirm our collective commitment to a future where primary health care is the foundation of resilient, people-centred, and equitable health systems,” he said.

    Tsague lauded the role of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he called “a beacon” of leadership, saying, “His unwavering commitment and strategic vision have galvanised a continental movement toward strengthening Africa’s primary health care systems”.

    He cited several reforms led by Nigeria that could serve as models across the continent, including the Primary Health Care Under One Roof (PHCUOR) initiative, which streamlines health governance across all administrative levels.

    Other notable initiatives, according to him, include the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), the Community-Based Health Worker (CBHW) Programme aiming to deploy 120,000 health workers by 2028, and efforts under the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC).

    “These strategic reforms rooted in domestic financing, community engagement, and transparent governance are central to advancing Africa’s PHC transformation.

    “They are not just policies, but pathways to Universal Health Coverage,” he added.

    He outlined six key pillars identified by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) as critical to transforming primary health care across the continent.

    These pillars, he said, include workforce transformation, aimed at building and retaining a skilled and motivated health workforce; digital and infrastructure transformation, focused on leveraging technology and improving health facility systems; and commodities security transformation, which ensures consistent access to essential medical supplies.

    Also central to the agenda, he noted, are financial access transformation to remove economic barriers to care, quality of care and data transformation to enhance service delivery and evidence-based decision-making, and governance and accountability to strengthen leadership, transparency, and effective health system stewardship.

    “We are guided by the AU decision to recruit, train and deploy two million CHWs by 2030.

    “Together, through coordinated efforts, data-driven action, and relentless advocacy, we can translate our shared vision into measurable impact, ensuring no community is left behind.

    “Let this consultation be the spark that turns strategies into systems, and commitments into improved health outcomes for the 1.4 billion people of our beautiful continent,” Tsague added.

    UNICEF Representative, Wafaa Saeed, emphasised the transformative power of community-based primary health care.

    “This approach has greatly reduced under-five mortality and expanded essential health services in countries like Rwanda, Malawi, and Ethiopia.

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    “The return on investment is clear. For every dollar spent, the return exceeds ten dollars,” she noted.

    She called for accelerated action to meet the AU’s vision, noting, “Recent stocktaking shows growing political will, and with increased investment, an additional one million CHWs could be operational within three to four years.”

    Saeed urged attendees to reflect on progress and align support through concrete targets and transparent monitoring, adding, “Let us move from rhetoric to action.

    “This meeting must lead to a continental framework and scorecard that holds us accountable.”

    She praised the dedication of CHWs, many of whom are women and young people, “They are the foundation of our health systems and the first responders in emergencies. They deserve our recognition, support, and sustained investment”.

    Throughout the consultation, speakers emphasised the necessity of collaboration and data-driven planning. 

  • Nigerian Coalition writes African Union over state of emergency in Rivers

    Nigerian Coalition writes African Union over state of emergency in Rivers

    ...wants emergency rule lifted

    A coalition of Nigerian professionals and political figures has petitioned the African Union (AU) over the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

    The group accused the federal government of unconstitutional actions, alleging that the suspension of Governor Siminilayi Fubara and dissolution of the State House of Assembly violated democratic principles.

    In a letter addressed to AU Commission Chairperson Alhaji Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the coalition warned that the move not only breached Nigeria’s constitution but also threatened democracy across Africa.

    The petition, signed by Professor Senator Opeyemi Ola, Professor Adah George, Rt. Hon. Dr. James Oloko, and Dr. Mrs. Evelyn E. Ogolime, urged the AU to intervene and prevent what they described as an abuse of power.

    “Nigeria is expected to be a shining example of democratic governance in Africa. The government’s decision to suspend the democratically elected Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminilayi Fubara, and the State House of Assembly, is a clear violation of the Constitution and an affront to democratic principles,” the petition reads. 

    “Section 305 of the Constitution, which the President cited as the basis for his action, does not grant him the power to suspend or remove elected officials. The Constitution is clear on the grounds for removing a governor, which is explicitly stated in Section 188. The president’s action is a blatant disregard for the Constitution and the democratic process.

    “This action is not only a threat to democracy in Nigeria but also sets a dangerous precedent for the suppression of democratic institutions and the rule of law in Africa. It is imperative that the African Union Commission takes immediate action to address this situation and ensure that democratic principles are upheld.”

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    Additionally, the coalition highlighted the broader implications of the government’s action, stating that it threatened the autonomy of states under Nigeria’s federal system. 

    The group called on the AU to send a fact-finding mission to Rivers State to assess the situation and ensure democratic institutions were protected.

    “We are also concerned about the potential consequences of this action on the stability of Nigeria and the African region. The suspension of democratic institutions and the imposition of emergency rule could lead to widespread unrest, violence, and instability. In addition, this action undermines the principles of federalism and the autonomy of states in Nigeria. The President’s decision to suspend the Governor and the State House of Assembly is a clear infringement on the powers of the state government and a violation of the principle of separation of powers.

    “We urge you to prevail upon President Tinubu to immediately lift the State of Emergency in Rivers State and restore the democratically elected government. We request that the African Union Commission take concrete steps to ensure that Nigeria, as a member state, upholds the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.  And sends a fact-finding mission to Rivers State to investigate the circumstances surrounding the declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of democratic institutions.”

  • UK foundation to lead Water for Africa initiative

    UK foundation to lead Water for Africa initiative

    African Union has appointed Dr. Martins Abhulimhen, a social justice advocate from Jose Foundation in United Kingdom, as its ambassador to lead an initiative to provide clean water to African communities.

    The initiative, ‘Jose Water for Africa Initiative,’ will ensure African communities access clean and safe drinking water.

    Abhulimhen, selected for his commitment to social justice, empowers communities through education and philanthropy.

    In a statement in Abuja and signed by Abhulimhen, it said the initiative will be implemented with Designated Honorary Consul for Cambodia to the UK, Mr. Jas Sohl.

    They will bring centralised and decentralised technologies to address water treatment, sanitation, and hygiene needs in Africa’s municipal and industrial sectors.

    Sohl, an entrepreneur with 25 years in technology and impact investing, will contribute his expertise to the initiative.

    He is recognised for sustainable development and climate technologies, having impacted environmental as well as technological programmes.

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    Abhulimhen noted that his prior experience in humanitarian work prepared him for this responsibility.

    He cited his past initiatives; child protection and safety programmes in South Africa.

    Chairman of AU Agenda 2063 Ambassadorial Assembly, Prof. Tunji Asaolu, was appointed to guide AU’s development vision for the continent, known as Agenda 2063.

    This framework aims to promote inclusive and sustainable growth and foster greater unity in Africa by 2063.

    Founded in Abuja in 2003, Jose Foundation has fostered change by empowering vulnerable groups, especially women and children. The foundation focuses on improving services, promoting women’s development, and response to humanitarian crises.

    The AU Agenda 2063 represents Africa’s vision for a future of unity, progress, and collective prosperity, positioning the continent as a global powerhouse.

  • Tinubu to attend African Union meeting in Ghana

    Tinubu to attend African Union meeting in Ghana

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart for Accra, Ghana today  to attend the Sixth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the African Union (AU).

     As Chairman of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Tinubu will address the meeting on regional integration, highlighting achievements and challenges in West Africa.

    The meeting, convened under the AU theme “Educate and Skill Africa for the 21st Century,” aims to align the work of the AU and Regional Economic Communities (RECs) to coordinate the implementation of the continental integration agenda.

    According to a statement issued yesterday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu will present the “2024 Report on the State of the Community,” focusing on peace, regional security, governance, economic integration, and humanitarian development.

    The agenda includes evaluating the AU’s conflict prevention mechanisms and promoting cooperation among regional economic communities.

     “President Bola Tinubu will on Saturday, July 20, depart Abuja for Accra, Ghana, to participate in the Sixth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the African Union (AU), the Regional Economic Communities (RECs), the Regional Mechanisms (RMs), and the African Union Member States.

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    “In his capacity as the Chairman of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Tinubu will address the meeting on the status of regional integration across various areas in Africa, highlighting the achievements and challenges encountered in West Africa since the last meeting in Nairobi, Kenya, in July 2023.

    “The President and Chairman of ECOWAS will present the ‘2024 Report on the State of the Community’, focusing on peace, regional security, governance, economic integration, humanitarian and social development, energy, mines and agriculture.

    “The meeting will be convened under the AU theme of the year 2024: ‘Educate and Skill Africa for the 21st Century.’

     “The Mid-Year Coordination Meeting was conceptualized in 2017 as the principal forum for the AU and the RECs to align their work and coordinate the implementation of the continental integration agenda, replacing the June/July summits.

    “In July 2023, President Tinubu, who was then elected as the Chairman of ECOWAS, delivered his maiden speech at the AU Fifth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Nairobi, Kenya, where he affirmed Africa’s strength and the need for unity.

  • Reps deputy speaker calls for democratization of African Union

    Reps deputy speaker calls for democratization of African Union

    …seeks special fund for education

    The deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has called for the democratization of the African Union and more involvement of the legislative arm in the budgeting process of the continental body.

    Kalu also advocated for a special fund targeted at funding education on the African continent, while also detailing strategies adopted by the Nigerian government to improve education in the country.

    The deputy speaker was speaking at the ongoing 3rd Ordinary Session of the 6th Parliament of the Pan-African Parliament in Johannesburg, South Africa after being inducted as a member of the continental body.

    A statement by his chief press secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, said Kalu outlined some of the measures to include increased funding for schools, scholarships and the passage of the student loan scheme bill which has since been assented to by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He said: “Permit me to reflect briefly on our experience in Nigeria. It is remarkable to note that this theme aligns quite substantively with the legislative priorities established under our leadership at the Nigeria House of Representatives and more fervently with President Bola Ahmed Tnubu’s focus on prioritizing education as a major catalyst to economic development.

    “This involves increased funding for schools, scholarships, and initiatives like free school meals. This commitment has also informed the initiation and passage of the Student Loan (Access to Higher Education) Act in 2023 and its ensuing operationalization earlier this year after being assented to by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    “The purpose of this act is to create seamless access to credit facilities for quality higher education, ensuring that all Nigerian students have the opportunity to achieve their academic potential regardless of their financial background.

    “I also want to share our experience from Nigeria regarding strengthening infrastructure, ensuring educational continuity during crises, and leveraging technology for remote learning. Nigerian regulators in the public education sector are paving the way with innovative licenses that power the next level of innovation from its vibrant edutech industry.

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    “A prime example is the MIVA Open University, which received an Open Distance eLearning License from the National Universities Commission (NUC) to operate online classes.”

    In addition to the efforts, Kalu also said that Nigeria is championing lifelong learning opportunities through initiatives like vocational training and adult literacy programs.

    The deputy speaker also mulled the creation of a dedicated fund to assist various continents in achieving their education need.

    While emphasizing the need for proper democratization of the African Union, the Deputy Speaker called for the input of the legislative arm in the budget process of the Union.

    “My office, the Office of the Deputy Speaker in Nigeria’s House of Representatives, has already sponsored draft legislation that institutionalizes a national apprenticeship scheme for the country and has passed the second reading. This demonstrates our commitment to equipping our citizens with the skills necessary for a dynamic and evolving economy.

    “We must also focus on the education of people with physical disabilities, ensuring that our educational systems are inclusive and accessible to all. Furthermore, it is crucial that we insist on utilizing an African model of learning to pass knowledge.

    “Our knowledge acquisition model should be tailored to suit the African dynamics, ensuring that our educational methods are relevant and effective in our unique continent. With all of these in mind, we must advocate for a specific target percentage of national budgets dedicated to education.

    “This will serve as a landmark goal for all African countries, engineering a continent-wide commitment. In addition, by sharing best practices in teacher training, curriculum development, and technology utilization, we can leverage the collective wisdom of Africa for the benefit of all.

    “I propose the creation of a dedicated fund to support national efforts and address funding disparities across the continent. This will ensure no child is left behind on the path to a brighter future.

    “Also, to track progress and foster accountability, establishing clear targets for country representatives at the Parliament is imperative. This sets the stage for peer review and informative country-by-country presentations at future PAP sessions.

    “Let me emphasize that if AU as a democratic institution wants to be seen as one, it is important and the time is now, for the legislative arm of AU to be strengthened beyond where it is.

    “An error of having a budget by the executive arm of AU that is going to be oversight by the legislative arm without the input of the appropriation right of this arm of the government of AU should be gone.

    “A new era that is transparent, a new era that is credible, a new era that has integrity should now come into place.”

    The Deputy Speaker while bemoaning recent empirical reports that suggested a deep crisis in education globally tasked the parliament with its solution.

    “The role of this Parliament is to adopt a pan-African approach to cure this defect. That is our job as leaders, it is our job as representatives of the people. If we are fit for purpose, we must chest out to deal with it. The era of blaming anybody is gone. It is now our responsibility to deal with our problems. Nothing more, nothing less.

    This is a call for immediate action and I am pleased that the leadership of President Charumbira is not wasting any time in addressing this major continental deficiency in our education system”, he said.

  • AFRIMA hosting rights: African Union writes Nigeria, South Africa

    AFRIMA hosting rights: African Union writes Nigeria, South Africa

    The  African Union Commission (AUC) has officially invited the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to take advantage of the hosting rights benefits of the next 2 editions of the prestigious annual All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA.

    In a letter bearing reference number HHS/CUL/16/170.23 and signed by the AUC’s Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development, Her Excellency, Ambassador Minata Samate Cessouma, the AU said the call aligns with its policies for the strategic transformation of Africa through social integration, as outlined in AU Agenda 2063, the Charter for African Cultural Renaissance, and the AU Plan for Action on Cultural and Creative Industry.

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    The AU describes AFRIMA as a global platform for celebrating and developing Africa’s diverse musical talents and cultural heritage, highlighting the significant opportunities hosting the prestigious awards presents for the selected host country

    “Since 2014, the African Union has been partnering and working successfully with AFRIMA to develop, celebrate and promote African music globally for the purpose of integration/inclusivity, economic prosperity and world peace via its seven core pillars: (1) Music Awards, (2) Music Festivals; (3) AFRIMA creative Academy; (4) Talent Discovery and Promotions; (5) Music Business Hub; (6) Advocacy; (7) Advisory and Policy Debates,” the letter reads.

    “AFRIMA is the biggest and longest running music award and platform in Africa, with a huge global appeal, diaspora audience, and youthful fans. The main event events of AFRIMA are usually broadcast live to over 84 countries around the world after a continental and global road show, with thousands of music artists, actors, celebrities, members of the diplomatic corps, professionals in the creative space, tourists, media and fans from all over the world converging on the host country.”

    A letter received by the Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa,  on behalf of the Nigerian government, a copy of which was seen by our correspondent, reads, “Nigeria, as a beacon in African music with huge young population, should it accept to host AFRIMA, stands a promising chance in elevating the country’s positive global presence, bolstering artistic, tourism and economic growth, fostering cultural exchange and job creation, and reinforcing a positive perception of our continent’s rich cultural heritage on a global scale.”        

    The Acting Director for Social Development, Culture, and Sports Division, African Union Commission, Ms. Angela Martins confirmed the invitation and request to bid for the hosting rights extended to the two countries.

    She said that AFRIMA provides a unique opportunity for the host country to showcase its rich cultural heritage, develop her music sector, promote tourism, and stimulate economic growth.

     “This call to action comes as part of the AU’s commitment to promoting cultural exchange, unity, and economic development across the African continent. We urge the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to seize this opportunity to strengthen intra-African collaboration (in line with AFCTA) within the music industry and enhance their international visibility positively.

    “AFRIMA serves as a premier platform for African artists in Africa and diaspora to showcase their talent, gain international exposure, and connect with audiences worldwide,” she said.

    She added that as the bidding process is itching towards its deadline, the African Union remains committed to providing support and guidance to ensure a successful hosting of AFRIMA.

    She also reiterated the AUC’s readiness to work closely with the selected host country to maximize the impact of the event on the African music industry, tourism, general economy growth, and socio-cultural landscape.

  • The African Union in multipolar world

    The African Union in multipolar world

    By Ayobami Akinola Steven

    SIR: In a world marked by constant change and evolving global dynamics, the African Union (AU) stands at a pivotal juncture as it navigates the complexities of a multipolar global landscape. The era of a few superpowers dominating international affairs is giving way to a more interconnected and diverse international system. As the collective voice of Africa on the world stage, the AU faces the challenge of adapting to these shifting global realities while leveraging them for the continent’s benefit.

    The emergence of a multipolar world marks a departure from the bipolar order that defined the Cold War era. In this new paradigm, power is dispersed among multiple centers, including rising nations and regional blocs, each exerting influence on the global stage. Alongside traditional global powers like the United States and Russia, countries such as China, India, Brazil, and regional entities like the European Union have risen as significant forces.

    Africa, with its burgeoning population exceeding one billion and abundant resources, has garnered increased global attention. Its economic growth, youthful demographic, and strategic significance have drawn the interest of both established and emerging powers. In this context, the AU, representing 55 member states, holds a unique position to manage Africa’s growing relevance in the multipolar world.

    A fundamental mission of the AU is to promote unity and cooperation among African nations. In a multipolar world, this unity takes on heightened importance as African states seek to amplify their influence collectively on the global stage. The AU serves as a platform for consensus-building and conflict resolution, facilitating a common African voice.

    Africa’s pursuit of economic integration, exemplified by initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), aligns with the multipolar world’s emphasis on regional and global trade. By encouraging intra-African trade and reducing trade barriers, the AU aims to position the continent as a formidable player in the global economy.

    In the fluid landscape of a multipolar world, alliances and partnerships are essential. The AU actively engages with an array of global actors, including the United States, the European Union, China, and Russia. These partnerships can bring investments, infrastructure development, and diplomatic support, but they require careful negotiation to safeguard Africa’s interests.

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    While the multipolar world offers opportunities, it also presents challenges for the AU. Striking a balance between competing global powers while protecting African interests requires finesse. The AU must avoid overreliance on any one partner, maintaining its autonomy in decision-making.

    It is imperative to ensure that the benefits of multipolarity are distributed equitably across the African continent. The AU must work diligently to prevent the exacerbation of existing inequalities and disparities among African nations. With diverse interests at play, the AU faces the ongoing challenge of mediating conflicts within and beyond the continent. Its peacekeeping efforts must remain adaptable in response to the shifting dynamics of a multipolar world.

    The African Union’s role in a multipolar world is of paramount importance for the continent’s future. By nurturing unity, promoting economic integration, and strategically engaging with global partners, the AU can harness the opportunities presented by the evolving international system. Nevertheless, it must remain vigilant in safeguarding African interests and address the multifaceted challenges associated with navigating a complex, multipolar world.

    In doing so, the AU can contribute to a more prosperous and stable future for Africa while actively participating in the global dialogue on multipolarity and multilateralism. Recent developments, such as the AU’s permanent membership in the G20, signify the changing tides of international relations and create opportunities for Africa to assert itself more assertively on the global stage.

    • Ayobami Akinola Steven, akinolaa61@gmail.com

  • ‘Tax reform, digitalisation key to financing development’

    Nigeria and other African countries must digitalise their economies, broaden their tax base, prevent further deterioration of fiscal and debt positions, and aim for double-digit growth to achieve the United Nation (UN) 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union (AU) Agenda 2063.

    These were the key highlights of the “2019 Economic Report on Africa,” released at the Conference of Ministers in Marrakech, Morocco.

    This year’s report, a flagship publication of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), focuses on fiscal policy. The report, which said the government revenue, which account for 21.4 per cent, was insufficient to meet countries’development financing needs, identified several quick wins in Africa’s pursuit of additional fiscal space to finance its accelerated development.

    ECA’s Executive Secretary Vera Songwe stated this at the launch of the document.

    She said: ‘’The report also focused on the  role of fiscal policy in crowding-in investment and creating adequate fiscal space for social policy, including supporting women and youth-led small and medium enterprises.”

    She added that a decade away from the SDG. “African countries continue to search for policy mixes to help accelerate the achievement of the SDGs. However, for many countries, financing remains the biggest bottleneck with implementing capacity a close second.”

    Analysing and highlighting both challenges and opportunities, the Report also recommends comprehensive macro-economic reforms aimed at building financial resilience, placing emphasis on the need for Africa to accelerate growth to double digits by 2030 and to boost investment from its current 25 per cent of GDP.

    While economic growth in Africa remained moderate at 3.2 per cent in 2018 – due to solid global growth, a moderate increase in commodity prices and favourable domestic conditions, the report emphasised that Africa needs to do more and work towards achieving a fine balance between raising revenue and incentivising investments, in order to boost growth.

    In some of Africa’s largest economies—South Africa, Angola and Nigeria – the report revealed, growth trended upwards but remained vulnerable to shifts in commodity prices. East Africa remained the fastest growing, at 6.1 per cent in 2017 and 6.2 per cent in 2018, while in West Africa, the economy expanded by 3.2 per cent in 2018, up from 2.4 per cent in 2017.

    Central, North and Southern Africa’s economies grew at a slower pace last year compared to 2017. On the issue of Africa’s debt burden, the report revealed that debt levels remained high as African countries increased their borrowing, to ease fiscal pressures most of which have been precipitated by the narrowing of revenue streams that has gone on since the commodity price shocks of 2014.

    It argued that African countries can increase government revenue by 12–20 per cent of GDP by adopting a policy framework that strengthen revenue mobilisation, including through digitalising African economies, stating that digitisation could enhance revenue mobilisation by up to six per cent.

    It said: ”Digital identification can broaden the tax base by making it easier to identify and track taxpayers and helping taxpayers meet their tax obligations.

    “By improving tax assessments and administration, it enhances the government’s capacity to mobilise additional resources.’’

    Digital ID systems yield gains in efficiency and convenience that could result in savings to taxpayers and government of up to $50 billion a year by 2020,” the report said.