Implementation Remains the Achilles Heel of the African Union: A Study of the African Peer-Review Mechanism (APRM)

Imani Jaoko

doi:10.52907/slr.v1i1.81

Abstract

The potential power of Africa is undisputed. The continent is home to a large, young population and is a potential economic powerhouse in the world. In order to realise its full potential, the African Union (AU) must guide the continent. The AU, has however, repeatedly faltered in this regard. The implementation mechanisms of the AU seem to be its Achilles’ heel. The AU suffers no shortage of well-formulated policies; instead it suffers from a chronic inability to follow up on these policies. This paper maps the formation of the AU, the promise it held and the factors that limit the ability of the AU to implement its programs and policies. The paper then briefly examines the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) looking at the problems of implementation it has faced and how these may be remedied.

Highlights

The potential power of Africa is undisputed
The implementation mechanisms of the African Union (AU) seem to be its Achilles’ heel.The AU suffers no shortage of well-formulated policies; instead it suffers from a chronic inability to follow up on these policies.This paper maps the formation of the AU, the promise it held and the factors that limit the ability of the AU to implement its programs and policies
A well-functioning and effective AU is crucial if Africa hopes to achieve her political, social and economic goals

Summary

The Promise of the African Union

In 2002, when the African Union (AU) was formed it was hailed as a new dawn for the African continent. Implementation Remains the Achilles Heel of the African Union ‘In order to cope with those challenges and to effectively address the new social, political and economic realities in Africa and in the world, we are determined to fulfil our peoples’ aspirations for greater unity in conformity with the objectives of the OAU Charter and the Treaty establishing the African Economic Community. More important for this paper, the Act provides that the AU will aim to promote democratic principles and institutions, popular participation and good governance.[19]

The African Union Thirteen Years On

The Tale of the Achilles Heel

Factors Affecting the Ability of the AU to Implement

Conclusion

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