Amani Africa
The AU Commission requires leadership that is strategic, bold, collaborative, and results driven - Anil K Gayan, Candidate for AU Commission Chairperson
8 November 2024
Interview with Anil K Gayan of Mauritius, Candidate for the position of AU Commission Chairperson by Amani Africa
VISION FOR AFRICA AND LEADERSHIP PLANS
Q. Why are you running for chairship of the AU Commission and why should AU member states vote for you?
I am running for Chairperson of the AU Commission because Africa stands at a critical juncture, where bold, transformative leadership is needed to drive sustainable development, regional integration, and lasting peace. With a wealth of experience in governance, diplomacy, and international relations, I am deeply committed to advancing our continent’s unity, security, and prosperity.
My candidacy is centered on delivering tangible outcomes that address Africa’s shared challenges, including deepening economic integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), promoting good governance, addressing climate change, and unlocking the blue economy. I believe in African-led solutions that empower all nations, leaving no one behind as we build a prosperous and secure future. AU member states should vote for me because I am dedicated to ensuring that Africa takes full ownership of its destiny, transforming our collective potential into real, sustainable progress.
Q. In your opinion what kind of leadership does the AU Commission require in general and at this material point in time in particular?
At this pivotal moment, the AU Commission requires leadership that is strategic, bold, collaborative, and results driven. To address complex challenges such as economic instability and climate change, we need a leader who can unite member states and adopt an ISO-like certification standard that ensures efficiency, transparency, and accountability across all operations. Streamlining decision-making and making the AU Commission more responsive and agile will be crucial for achieving common goals like peace, security, and economic integration. This leadership must focus on practical solutions and long-term outcomes, ensuring that the needs of Africans are met with bold, inclusive, and accountable action.
Q. What is your vision for the African Union under your leadership as AU Commission Chair?
My vision for the African Union is to create a more integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa that is financially independent, operationally efficient, and driven by good governance. Under my leadership, the AU will be a symbol of African strength, unity, and progress, where every country has an equal voice. We will strengthen our institutions, enhance intra-African trade, and promote economic integration, while addressing critical issues like peace, security, and climate resilience. By embedding transparent processes and performance benchmarks, the AU will deliver tangible benefits to all Africans. I am committed to advancing key goals such as infrastructure development, sustainable growth, and the full realization of Agenda 2063, ensuring that the African Union becomes a beacon of hope and progress for our continent.
Q. How would your leadership be different from the past eight years?
My leadership will focus on achieving greater financial independence for the African Union by reducing reliance on external funding and diversifying the AU’s resource base through innovative mechanisms like diaspora bonds, partnerships with the private sector, and increased member-state contributions. While building on the past leadership’s foundation, I will emphasize accelerated action and measurable outcomes, prioritizing the swift implementation of key initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). I will streamline bureaucratic processes, enhance transparency, and ensure more direct communication with African citizens to build trust and engagement. Additionally, I will strengthen the AU’s Peace and Security Council, improving conflict-prevention mechanisms and early warning systems, while aligning our operations with ISO certification standards to boost efficiency, accountability, and credibility.
Q. What key outcomes or achievements do you hope to be remembered for at the end of your term as Chairman of the AU?
At the end of my term as Chairman of the AU, I hope to be remembered for transforming the African Union into a more financially self-sufficient and effective institution, capable of acting decisively in matters of peace and security. I aim to strengthen the AU’s capacity to reduce conflicts and fortify the Peace and Security Council, while making significant progress in the implementation and expansion of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost intra-African trade. I also hope to leave behind measurable achievements in infrastructure, governance, and democratic development, bridging the gap between the AU’s vision and its delivery.
AU INSTITUTIONAL ISSUES
Q. What is your assessment of the state of the African Union, in terms of challenges that the African continent is facing and the role and place of the Union in mobilizing effective responses as well as in terms of whether and how it has advanced the development and integration agenda?
The African Union has made commendable progress, but significant challenges remain. A key issue is the gap between the AU’s ambitious vision and its ability to implement that vision, due to resource constraints and a slow pace of reforms. Regional instability, economic disparities, and insufficient infrastructure continue to hinder progress across the continent. To effectively address these challenges, the AU must strengthen its role in conflict resolution and economic integration, ensuring more rapid and decisive action. Improving coordination, resource mobilization, and collaboration with member states and regional bodies is crucial. Additionally, adopting operational standards similar to ISO certification can streamline processes, increase transparency, and enhance accountability, helping the AU deliver on its development and integration agenda more effectively.
Q. What is your assessment of the state of the AU Commission? What needs to be consolidated, and what needs to change?
The AU Commission has a solid foundation, but significant improvements are needed in efficiency, financial management, and internal accountability. To achieve this, I propose adopting an operational model inspired by ISO certification standards to enhance transparency, streamline processes, and ensure accountability in every department. Better coordination between the Commission and member states is essential for delivering tangible results. Additionally, achieving financial independence is crucial; we must reduce reliance on external donors by increasing member-state contributions and exploring alternative funding mechanisms. Furthermore, the Commission must prioritize the empowerment of youth and ensure gender parity, becoming a more dynamic and adaptive institution that can meet the evolving needs of the continent.
Q. How will you prioritize the AU’s Agenda 2063, and what key milestones will you seek to achieve during your tenure towards achieving Agenda 2063?
Agenda 2063 is the blueprint for Africa’s future, and I will prioritize fast-tracking its implementation by focusing on key milestones such as expanding the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), improving infrastructure, and advancing good governance, peace, and security across the continent. A major focus of my tenure will be achieving financial sustainability for the AU by reducing reliance on external partners and ensuring that every initiative is executed with efficiency by aligning AU operations with its ISO standards. Additionally, I will prioritize investment in green energy and innovation to support sustainable development, ensuring that the AU meets critical milestones in industrialization and economic integration outlined in Agenda 2063.
Q. What needs to be done to bridge the gap between the ambition of the African Union and the actual delivery of the Union on its ambition?
To bridge the gap between the African Union’s ambitious goals and actual delivery, the AU must enhance operational efficiency and accountability by adopting international certification standards. This will streamline processes, ensuring they are clear, transparent, and results-oriented.
Achieving financial sustainability is crucial; we must diversify our funding mechanisms by increasing contributions from member states, harnessing Africa’s own resources, and exploring innovative financing options such as public-private partnerships and diaspora bonds. By moving away from over-reliance on external donors, we can build financial independence and enhance our sovereignty.
Furthermore, fostering greater collaboration and improving communication among member states will help close the gap between ambition and tangible outcomes, enabling the AU to translate its aspirations into impactful results more effectively. Reducing bureaucracy and speeding up decision-making processes will also be essential in realizing the AU’s vision for the continent.
Q. How do you think the majority of Africans view the AU? Do you think African citizens have a positive view of the AU? Why do you think that is the case?
Many Africans view the AU as a symbol of unity but often feel disconnected from its processes and outcomes, perceiving it as a distant entity that does not fully engage with their daily lives. While there is recognition of the AU’s role in peacekeeping and governance, many citizens believe it should do more to address pressing socio-economic issues. To shift this perception, it is crucial for the AU to deliver on key programs that have a tangible impact on everyday lives, enhancing its accessibility, transparency, and accountability. By ensuring financial independence and demonstrating the direct benefits of its initiatives, the AU can foster a more positive view among African citizens, ultimately reinforcing its relevance and connection to their realities.
FUNDING OF THE UNION
Q. Despite the growing need for more from the AU and its engagement in various policy areas of continental scale, the funding for the Union has not been growing. It has indeed decreased particularly in the years since the COVID-19 pandemic. This has created a major gap between what the AU is expected to do and the dwindling means at its disposal.
What needs to be done to enhance the resource base of the AU and reverse the trend of dwindling capacity and resources?
To enhance the resource base of the African Union and reverse the trend of dwindling capacity, we must significantly reduce our reliance on external funding. This can be achieved by diversifying our funding sources and encouraging member states to honour their financial commitments, implementing accountability measures that link payments to decision-making rights within the Union. I propose introducing innovative financial mechanisms such as African diaspora bonds and a tax on multinational corporations operating in Africa, which can create new revenue streams. Additionally, expanding public-private partnerships and effectively leveraging the continent’s natural and human resources will help fund key programs. By focusing on these strategies, we can strengthen the AU’s financial sustainability and capacity to meet its ambitious goals.
Q. AU members committed to providing 100 per cent of their operational budget, 75 per cent of their program budget, and 25 per cent of their budget for peace support operations.
Seventy per cent of the operational costs of the AU are covered by its member states; however, most programmatic operations are still not financially supported by these states. As a result, the AU relies heavily on external donors to fund its programs, leading to financial dependency. What measures will you implement to enhance the AU’s financial self-sufficiency?
To enhance the AU’s financial self-sufficiency and reduce dependency on external donors, I propose implementing a comprehensive funding strategy that focuses on innovative financial mechanisms and strengthening member state contributions. This strategy will include the introduction of diaspora bonds, which will allow African citizens living abroad to invest in their home continent, thereby generating substantial funding for key initiatives. Additionally, I will work to increase financial commitments from member states by establishing clear accountability measures that ensure their contributions directly support operational and programmatic budgets.
Furthermore, fostering public-private partnerships will be crucial in diversifying revenue streams and leveraging Africa’s private sector to finance AU programs. By strengthening collaboration with the private sector and utilizing the continent’s natural and human resources, we can create a sustainable funding model that empowers the AU to operate independently. Improving financial management and ensuring transparency in resource allocation will build trust among member states and partners, encouraging them to invest in the AU with confidence. This holistic approach will pave the way for the AU’s financial independence, ensuring it can effectively fulfill its mission and enhance its sovereignty.
Q. How will you ensure member states that have indicated their commitments for the implementation of the Kigali decision follow through on their commitments?
To ensure that member states follow through on their commitments for the implementation of the Kigali decision, I will adopt a comprehensive strategy that emphasizes accountability and shared responsibility. This will involve increasing contributions from member states through a fair and transparent system, while also diversifying our funding sources by tapping into Africa’s natural resources and leveraging diaspora remittances. I will introduce sustainable public-private partnerships to finance key AU initiatives and apply ISO-like standards to our financial management, ensuring greater efficiency and transparency in fund usage. Regular reviews of financial commitments and transparent reporting on fund allocation will be crucial in fostering a culture of accountability. Additionally, I will strengthen communication with member states to highlight the long-term benefits of financial self-reliance, providing incentives for those that meet their obligations and encouraging all members to actively support the AU’s mission.
Q. What is your take on the institutional reform of the AU? What needs to change and how?
The institutional reform of the African Union (AU) is essential for enhancing its efficiency and credibility, yet the current process has fallen short of its original ambition and has not fully realized its potential. While there have been strides made, such as streamlining operations, the implementation has been slower than expected and at times controversial, leading to concerns about the marginalization of key areas within the AU’s mandate. To address these issues, we need to revisit the reform objectives to ensure they align with the continent’s needs today, avoiding redundancies while enhancing accountability and measurable outcomes. By adopting international standards and establishing performance benchmarks, we can create a more efficient operational framework that allows the AU to deliver on its mandates swiftly and effectively. Additionally, engaging member states in this reform process is crucial to ensure alignment with their expectations and strengthen their commitment to the AU’s collective goals, particularly in reforming the Peace and Security Council for improved conflict resolution and coordination with Regional Economic Communities (RECs). Overall, completing these reforms is vital for the AU to operate like a well-oiled machine, focused on advancing its critical mission for the continent.
SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INTEGRATION
Q. What is your assessment of the state of socio-economic development and integration in Africa? Do you think the AU is doing enough and mobilizing action in this area at a pace and at the level matching the situation on the ground and the expectations of African people?
While progress has been made, socio-economic development is still uneven across the continent. The AfCFTA represents a major step towards integration, but more needs to be done to address infrastructure gaps, youth unemployment, and access to basic services like healthcare and education. We must ensure that the benefits of growth are distributed equitably, and that integration efforts are inclusive of all African countries.
To enhance intra-African trade and economic integration, I will prioritize the full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by reducing both tariff and non-tariff barriers that hinder trade. Key measures will include investing in critical infrastructure such as transportation, energy, and information and communication technology (ICT) to facilitate seamless cross-border trade. Additionally, I will focus on strengthening the African Union’s capacity to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as they play a vital role in driving economic growth and innovation across the continent. By creating an enabling environment for SMEs to participate in cross-border trade, we can significantly boost economic integration and foster sustainable development throughout Africa.
Q. How do you plan to accelerate the full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)? Infrastructure gaps remain a barrier to economic growth. How will you prioritize infrastructure development, especially in terms of transportation, energy, and ICT?
Accelerating the AfCFTA will require strong political will from member states and the rapid construction of critical infrastructure. I will prioritize resolving logistical bottlenecks, harmonizing trade regulations, and simplifying customs procedures. Additionally, I will advocate for the expansion of transportation networks and digital infrastructure to connect markets more efficiently. The AfCFTA will be central to driving Africa’s socio-economic integration, and I will ensure its objectives are met swiftly.
PEACE AND SECURITY AND DEMOCRATIC AND CONSTITUTIONAL GOVERNANCE
Q. While the AU promised not to bequeath conflicts and war to the next generation and committed to silencing the guns by 2020 which was extended to 2030, instead of silencing the guns are blazing and roaring more ferociously and widely.
What is your take on this state of peace and security in Africa, which according to the constitutive act is the pre-requisite for realizing the development and regional integration agenda of the Union?
The state of peace and security in Africa is indeed concerning, as ongoing conflicts continue to destabilize various regions, undermining our collective efforts for development and regional integration. The AU’s Peace and Security Council must be empowered to take a more proactive stance in conflict prevention, moving beyond mere conflict resolution. This requires strengthening early warning systems and ensuring that peacekeeping missions are adequately funded and equipped to intervene effectively before conflicts escalate. Moreover, collaboration with Regional Economic Communities (RECs) is essential to foster a unified response to security threats. We must also address the root causes of conflict, including inequality and governance failures, to create a more stable and peaceful environment across the continent. The failure to achieve the “Silencing the Guns” target by 2020 emphasizes the urgent need for a renewed approach to peace and security in Africa.
To effectively address the backsliding in peace and security across the continent, I plan to tackle the root causes of conflicts, such as inequality, poor governance, and resource competition. Strengthening the AU’s Peace and Security Council is essential; this includes providing it with increased resources and authority to intervene early and ensuring that peacekeeping missions are well-funded, well-coordinated, and fully equipped. Enhancing early warning systems will allow us to prevent conflicts before they escalate, while collaboration with Regional Economic Communities (RECs) will facilitate a unified approach to conflict resolution. Additionally, promoting good governance and creating economic opportunities will help alleviate some of the underlying instabilities. Engaging with arms-exporting countries to curb the illicit flow of weapons into Africa will also be crucial in reducing the factors contributing to ongoing conflicts. Through these comprehensive measures, I aim to foster long-term stability and peace across the continent.
Q. What do you believe to be the biggest challenges and opportunities for good governance and democracy on the continent at this historical moment?
The current global landscape, characterized by crises, great power tensions, and the rise of middle powers, presents significant challenges to good governance and democracy in Africa, often exacerbating existing security issues and turning parts of the continent into arenas for geopolitical rivalry. Key challenges include external interference, corruption, and weak institutions, which can undermine democratic processes. However, this situation also presents opportunities for the AU to play a pivotal role in conflict resolution by acting as a mediator and facilitator of dialogue among conflicting parties while promoting regional cooperation and stability. Strengthening the AU’s Peace and Security Council and enhancing collaboration with Regional Economic Communities (RECs) can create a unified response to these challenges. By prioritizing accountability, transparency, and public participation, the AU can empower citizens and reinforce democratic governance. Leveraging Africa’s rich diversity, youth population, and emerging technologies can further foster innovative solutions to governance challenges, positioning the AU as a leader in addressing both immediate security threats and promoting sustainable democracy across the continent.
To promote democracy, good governance, and respect for human rights across the continent, I will prioritize strengthening the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) to ensure that all member states adhere to established standards of democracy, rule of law, and human rights. This will involve regular reviews and consistent engagement with national governments to uphold these principles while holding them accountable for their commitments. Additionally, I will focus on empowering civil society and youth organizations, ensuring they have a significant voice in governance and play an active role in holding governments accountable. By fostering an environment of increased transparency and accountability, and by reinforcing rule of law institutions, we can combat corruption and fight impunity, ultimately ensuring that all African citizens benefit from fair governance and democratic practices.
PARTNERSHIP:
Q. How do you plan to enhance collaboration between the AU & the RECs?
To enhance collaboration between the African Union (AU) and Regional Economic Communities (RECs), I will prioritize the establishment of clear frameworks for communication and coordination, ensuring that both entities align their strategies and objectives. This involves regular consultations and joint meetings to foster a shared understanding of regional challenges and opportunities. I will advocate for integrating REC initiatives into the AU’s broader agenda, promoting a more cohesive approach to development and security across the continent. Additionally, by leveraging the unique strengths of each REC, we can enhance resource mobilization and facilitate cross-border projects that address common priorities. This collaborative effort will ensure that the AU and RECs work synergistically to drive regional integration and achieve sustainable development goals.
Q. With the AU now being a member of the G20, vying for representation at the UNSC, how will you advocate for Africa’s representation in the global arena and enhance the AU’s relationships with global powers and multilateral institutions?
Africa’s voice needs to be stronger in global decision-making platforms like the G20 and the UN. I will advocate for Africa’s representation in the UN Security Council and work to strengthen partnerships with global powers and multilateral institutions. By positioning Africa as a united, strategic partner, we can ensure that our priorities are reflected in global policies.
To strengthen the African Union’s (AU) role on the global stage and enhance African unity, I will prioritize a multi-faceted approach centered on strategic diplomacy, collective action, and economic integration. Firstly, I will advocate for a unified African voice in international forums, ensuring that the continent’s interests and perspectives are prominently represented. This includes enhancing collaboration with global partners to address critical issues such as climate change, health security, and trade. Secondly, I will promote initiatives that deepen regional integration, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which will not only boost intra-African trade but also enhance our bargaining power internationally. Furthermore, I will facilitate platforms for dialogue among member states, fostering collaboration and solidarity on common challenges, thereby reinforcing a sense of African identity and purpose. By strengthening our collective capacity and promoting shared values, we can position the AU as a formidable player in global governance and advance the cause of African unity.
This interview was conducted by Amani Africa based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and first published on www.amaniafrica-et.org