Venson-Moitoi campaign runs on AU reform agenda

Dr Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi, the Botswana Minister of Foreign Affairs, this week spelled out the key points how she will tackle the job of chairman of the African Union, if she gets elected at next week’s African Union Heads of State meeting in Addis Ababa. She is the candidate nominated by the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

The 28th Ordinary Assembly of the African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government is set for 30 to 31 January in Addis Ababa.

Dr Venson-Moitoi highlighted five major reforms she would introduce if elected, saying “the African Union is uniquely positioned to lay the foundations for Africa’s bright future and to achieve the Vision 2063 goals. This will require stewardship and drive; energy and perseverance, pan-African activism, action-orientation and diplomacy as well as the ability to reach consensus.”

Listing her envisaged reforms, she said the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) is the ideal partner to become the AU’s development arm in a more prominent and well-defined role. For this, consultation with the member states must be improved through the Permanent Representatives Committee.

Dr Venson-Moitoi further proposes stronger integration between the AU Commission and regional bodies to ensure regular information sharing and to drive activities in a more efficient and cost effective manner.

For her third key reform, she will re-introduce activity reports at annual summits to keep members informed about the Commission’s work and progress.

Another key element is the reciprocal relationship between the Commission and member states. Attendance of regional summits is important, as are regular visits by the Commission to member states.

Last, she pledges to follow up on implementation of the Kigali summit on funding to speed up process, and assess other mechanisms to generate income for the Union including discussions with the private sector.

Dr Venson-Moitoi is passionate to drive sustainable development across the African continent, moving the people of Africa forward through collaboration with the leading minds and captains of Africa’s industries.

“As Chairperson of the AU Commission, I will commit to practices to enhance Africa’s quest for democratic development. I will galvanise the support of all member states to ensure that, together, we champion democratic governance” she concluded.