Deputy Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission Selma Malika Haddadi emphasized the urgent need to address the AU’s budgetary constraints and reduce reliance on external funding.
Speaking at the 50th Ordinary Session of the Permanent Representatives’ Committee (PRC) on Monday Haddadi said that only 17 Member States have so far implemented the 0.2 percent import levy to contribute to the AU’s annual budget in line with the decision reached Kigali, Rwanda.
Haddadi called for collective action to meet the Johannesburg targets and reduce reliance on external funding.
Reports indicate that until 2021, repeated efforts at reducing dependency on foreign funding and increasing the yearly contributions from the member states of the AU had largely failed.
“Our collective resolve must translate into tangible progress—on financing, integration, and justice. Africa’s future depends on it,” Haddadi stated.
The AUC Deputy Chairperson noted that the PRC will discuss key issues, among which are: the Report of the sub-committee on budget that includes the 2026 budget of the Union; Partnerships and the need to develop a strategy for all partnerships; and the Mid-term evaluation of the theme of the year 2025.
She further called for accelerated efforts to deepen the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), stimulate industrialization, and drive innovation-led growth.
According to her, critical areas have been identified that require action and joint, collaborative efforts, as well as enhanced dialogue and communication.
To this effect, she called upon all member states of the African Union to accelerate their efforts to implement the AfCFTA, stimulate industrialization, and drive innovation-led growth.
“We must accelerate efforts to deepen the AfCFTA, stimulate industrialization, and drive innovation-led growth,” the deputy chairperson underscored.
She also stressed the need for strengthening relations between the Commission and Regional Economic Communities and Regional Mechanisms (RECs/RMs), a key priority for the new leadership.
MG/abj/APA