The report by H.E. Paul Kagame, dated January 29, 2017, addresses the urgent need to reform the African Union (AU) to enhance its effectiveness, relevance, and sustainability. It highlights that the AU currently faces significant challenges, including fragmented structures, poor implementation of decisions, overdependence on donor funding, lack of accountability, and limited engagement with African citizens. The report emphasizes that Africa cannot afford another decade of missed opportunities and must strengthen its unity through focused priorities, realigned institutions, efficient management, and sustainable financing.
Kagame outlines four pillars for reform: focusing the AU on continental priorities such as peace, security, economic integration, and global representation; realigning institutions, including integrating NEPAD fully, clarifying the roles of judicial and legislative organs, and reviewing the Peace and Security Council; improving management by reforming Summit working methods and enhancing leadership accountability; and achieving financial autonomy by implementing the Kigali Financing Decision and adopting equitable burden-sharing among member states.
The report calls for legally binding mechanisms and stronger enforcement to ensure member states honor their commitments. It stresses that reform is a leadership responsibility and that only through collective political will can the AU become a credible, effective institution that delivers tangible benefits to African people. Ultimately, the report urges African leaders to choose change and renew their commitment to unity, dignity, and prosperity for the continent. This report serves as a foundational document for the African Union’s institutional reform agenda, aiming to strengthen unity, effectiveness, and relevance for Africa’s future.