african peer review mechanism (aprm) annual report 2011

1 2011 APRM Annual Report 1 2011 APRM Annual Report

Annual ReportAfRicAn PeeR Review MechAnisM

Africa’s self-Assessment for improved Governance

2011 APRM Annual Report

2011 APRM Annual Report 2011 APRM Annual Report

Frequently-asked questions 2

Abbreviations and acronyms 3

Foreword by Professor Amos Sawyer, 4 Chairperson of APRM Panel

Introduction by the Chief Executive Officer 5 of the APRM Secretariat

i. Activities undeRtAken in 2011 7

A. forum of heads of state and Government 7

1. 14th Summit of the APRM Forum 7

1.1 Peer Review of Ethiopia

1.2 Progress Report on Implementation of the Nigeria NPoA

1.3 Progress Report on Implementation of the Lesotho NPoA

2. 15th Summit of the APRM Forum 9

2.1 Progress Report on Implementation of the Benin NPoA

2.2 Progress Report on Implementation of the Burkina Faso NPoA

B. Overview of Assessments: 12 update on country Review Processes

1. Central Africa 12

1.1 Cameroon

1.2 Republic of Congo

1.3 Gabon

1.4 São Tome and Principe

2. East Africa 13

2.1 Djibouti

2.2 Ethiopia

2.3 Kenya

2.4 Rwanda

2.5 Tanzania

2.6 Uganda

3. North Africa 15

3.1 Algeria

3.2 Egypt

3.3 Mauritania

3.4 Sudan

4. Southern Africa 16

4.1 Angola

4.2 Lesotho

4.3 Malawi

4.4 Mauritius

4.5 Mozambique

4.6 South Africa

4.7 Zambia

5. West Africa 17

5.1 Benin

5.2 Burkina Faso

5.3 Ghana

5.4 Liberia

5.5 Mali

5.6 Nigeria

5.7 Senegal

5.8 Sierra Leone

5.9 Togo

c. Partnership development 20 and participation in meetings

1. APRM Strategic Partners’ collaborative activities

2. Conferences, Workshops and Other Meetings

ii. finAnciAl RePORt 24

1. Member Countries’ Contributions

2. Contributions from Partners

iii. MAnAGeMent Of the APRM 28

1. The APR Forum

2. The APR Panel

3. The APRM Secretariat

4. The National APRM Focal Points

iv. cOnclusiOns And 32 2012 PeRsPectives

CONTENTS

2 2011 APRM Annual Report

WhAT iS GOOd GOvERNANCE?

Good Governance involves making decisions and

implementing them in a manner that is participatory,

consensus-oriented, accountable, transparent,

effective and efficient, equitable, inclusive and guided

by the rule of law.

Good Governance ensures that corruption is

eradicated, the views of minorities and the most

vulnerable social groups are taken into account in

decision-making and policies are implemented in a

manner that promotes sustainable development.

WhAT ARE ThE ObjECTivES OF ThE APRM?

The objectives of the APRM are primarily to foster the

adoption of policies, standards and practices that lead

to political stability, high economic growth, sustainable

development and accelerated sub-regional and

continental economic integration through experience

sharing and reinforcement of successful and best

practices, including identification of deficiencies and

assessment of needs for capacity building.

hOW dO COuNTRiES bECOME MEMbERS OF ThE

APRM PROCESS?

Membership of the APRM is open to all the 54 Member

Countries of the African Union. However, membership

of the APRM is acquired on a voluntary basis. At

present, thirty (30) of the 54 member countries of the

African Union are members of the APRM.

The process of accession usually starts with a country

expressing its desire to become member of the APRM.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is then

signed between the country and the APR Forum, a

body comprising Heads of State and Government, at

any of the bi-annual AU/APRM Summits.

hOW iS AN APRM REviEW CONduCTEd?

An APRM Review Mission is only one part of the

overall Peer Review Process, as illustrated in Box

1. A typical Review Mission may last for two and a

half or three weeks, excluding the preparatory team

meetings and writing of the Country Review Report.

The Country Review Team meets with all national

stakeholders, comprising Government Departments,

Civil Society Organizations, such as Religious

Organizations, Academia, Minorities and Trade Unions,

as well as Members of the Judiciary, Parliament and

Political Parties, Local Government Representatives,

Women’s Organizations, Youth Groups, the Private

Sector, including Informal Sector Federations and/

or Operators, Chambers of Commerce, Commercial

Banks, Insurance Companies, SME Federations and

Professional Bodies such as Chartered Accountants,

the Legal Profession, etc.

The first week of a Review Mission is usually spent in

the capital city while the second week and possibly

part of the third week are spent in the regions or

provinces. Since individual country reviews present

differences as a result of country specificities, review

programmes are subject to variance.

iS ThE APRM AN ASSESSMENT OF ThE ExECuTivE

bRANCh OF GOvERNMENT?

The APRM is used by member countries to self-

monitor all aspects of their governance and socio-

economic development. The exercise is not limited to

the Executive. It includes the legislative and judicial

branches of government as well as an assessment

of the Private Sector, Civil Society and the Media

in the areas of governance and socio-economic

development. The overall review process provides a

national space for dialogue on governance and socio-

economic indicators in the Member State and the

opportunity to build national consensus on the way

forward. The National Programme of Action (NPoA)

prepared at the end of the review process actualizes

the road map agreed upon by all the stakeholders.

hOW ARE Civil SOCiETy ORGANizATiONS

(CSOS) iNvOlvEd?

Civil Society Organizations are involved in all stages

of the process which may include participation in one

or more of the following structures or activities:

FREquENTly-ASkEd quESTiONS


• The Advance/Support Mission meetings that

which provide the space to learn about the

process and interact with the APRM delegation;

• The National Commissions/Governing Councils

that provide strategic policy direction to the

process at country level;

• The Technical Review Teams that coordinate

the technical production of a Country Self-

Assessment Report (CSAR) and the National

Programme of Action (NPoA) document;

• The Country Review Team comprising

independent African experts engaged in the four

thematic areas;

• Workshops for evaluating and strengthening the

APRM; and

• Country Review Missions that provide the

opportunity for meetings between Civil Society

Organizations and the APRM Country Review Team.

WhAT hAPPENS AFTER ThE PEER REviEW?

The National Programme of Action (NPoA) is

implemented after the peer review of a Member

State at a Summit of the APRM Heads of State and

Government (APR Forum).The NPoA addresses short-

term, medium-term and long-term goals that are

monitored systematically. The monitoring body can

be the National Commission/Governing Council, or a

smaller representative body including state and non-

state actors. This body monitors the implementation

of the NPoA and prepares a six-monthly progress

report for the APR Panel of Eminent Persons (APR

Panel) and an annual progress report for the APR

Forum. After two to four years, the reviewed Member

State is eligible for a subsequent review.

AFdb African Development Bank

AGF African Governance Forum

Ald Activities of Limited Duration

APR African Peer Review

APRM African Peer Review Mechanism

Au African Union

CFR Commander of the Order of the

Federal Republic

CRM Country Review Mission

CSM Country Support Mission

CRT Country Review Team

CSAR Country Self Assessment Report

CSOS Civil Society Organizations

dbSA Development Bank of

Southern Africa

EFCC Economic and Financial

Crime Commission

iCPC Independent Corrupt Practices

and Other Related Offences

Commission

MNi Member of National Institute

MOu Memorandum of Understanding

NC/NGC National Commission /

National Governing Council

NGC National Governing Council

NEPAd New Partnership for Africa’s

Development

NGO Non-Governmental Organizations

NPOA National Programme of Action

POA Programme of Action

PR Proportional Representation

PRC Permanent Representatives

Committee

REC Regional Economic Community

SME Small and Medium Enterprises

uNdP United Nations

Development Programme

uNECA United Nations Economic

Commission for Africa

ACRONyMS ANd AbbREviATiONS


FOREWORd by PROFESSOR AMOS SAWyER, ChAiRPERSON

OF ThE APR PANEl

the year 2011 was yet another eventful reference point in the annals of the APRM. It was an eventful year during which the APRM process

was further invigorated. Its outstanding landmarks included the Peer Review of Ethiopia, Implementation of National Programmes of Action (NPoA) by Member Countries, Preparation of Operating Procedures for the APRM, Country Review Missions, Support and Follow-up Missions to Member Countries and various initiatives taken to streamline and fast-track the APRM Process.

Led by the Chairperson of the APRM Panel, Prof. Mohamed Séghir Babès, four (4) members of the Reconstituted Panel (following the resignation of Vice-Chairperson Domitilla Mukantaganzwa) collaborated with the Heads of State and Government Participating in the APRM, the APRM Secretariat and Focal Points of the Mechanism to carry out the year’s Work Plan according to schedule.

As elaborated hereafter, three Country Review Missions were accomplished and the Mechanism successfully conducted Support and Follow-up Missions in the Member Countries. Panel Meetings were held on schedule and initiatives taken by the APR Panel culminated in the Revision of the APRM Master Questionnaire, the principal guide to the Country Review Processes designed to streamline and fast-track the APRM process. An APRM Retreat organized with Representatives from the African Union (AU) and the Strategic Partners of the APRM (UNECA, UNDP and AfDB) came up with practical recommendations for enhanced partnerships aimed at carrying the Mechanism to new heights.

The Outreach, Experience Sharing and Advocacy Programmes were reinforced through the APRM’s participation in continental meetings where thematic issues of prime concern to the Mechanism were discussed. Cooperation with partner organizations and AU institutions was boosted and the Mechanism’s

Communication Strategy was revamped to enhance the visibility of the APRM on the African continent and beyond.

It is noteworthy that these achievements were the result of efforts deployed by a reduced APR Panel and dedicated staff members of a skeleton Secretariat.

In the financial sphere, the Mechanism acknowledges the substantial efforts made by Member Countries and Partner Institutions to sustain the Mechanism with their financial contributions. The Mechanism is grateful to all the Member Countries and institutions for their financial support. It also appeals to the Member Countries that have not paid up their Contribution Arrears to do so to enable the Mechanism to acquire the resources needed for the implementation of the outstanding activities.

It is anticipated that the APRM Panel and Focal Points will come up with consensual Operating Procedures for the APRM and that the Revised Questionnaire and Monitoring, Reporting and Evaluation (MR&E) Framework Documents will be finalized and validated by the stakeholders in early 2012 so as to pave the way for their presentation to the APR Forum of Heads of State and Government. As observed previously, these initiatives will mark a new phase in the APRM, where the truly unique process involving all Africans will reflect the impact of the reviews on the governance-related challenges of tomorrow.

We fervently hope that the coming year will usher in a new Host Country Agreement to improve staff working conditions at the APR Secretariat, as well as more Members to strengthen the Panel and facilitate its work. The APRM has prospects and we remain optimistic that the various structures, partners and stakeholders will intensify their efforts to strengthen the continental Mechanism by providing it with increased support at all levels.

Professor Amos sawyerChairperson of the APR Panel (january 2012 - present)


it is my pleasure to welcome readers and APRM Stakeholders to the 2011 Annual Report. The year 2011 was indeed another memorable reference

point as the APRM recorded a number of sterling

achievements in its mission of promoting good

governance and socio-economic development in

Africa. In the year 2011:

• Review Missions were accomplished in Zambia

and Sierra Leone, and the first ever second

review mission was conducted in Kenya;

• Liberia acceded to the APRM, thereby bringing the

membership of the Mechanism to 30 countries;

• A Draft Revised APRM Questionnaire was

elaborated at a Validation Workshop on “The

Revised Questionnaire and Development of a

Monitoring and Reporting Framework for the

APRM”. The Workshop, which was held from 16th to

17th March 2011 in Johannesburg, brought together

more than one hundred high-level stakeholders,

including APR Panel Members, Member Countries’

Focal Points, the Chief Executive Officer of NEPAD

and Representatives of the Strategic Partners and

Civil Society Organizations;

• The APRM advocacy and outreach programmes

recorded steady progress and the Mechanism

achieved greater visibility through the publication

of the APRM Newsletter and The Voice of APRM/

La Voix du MAEP, the In-house Information

Bulletin. The Voice of APRM, a radio programme,

was also developed to broadcast news in brief

from the APRM.

• The APRM Website was revamped and it is now

available at the following addresses:

(http://aprm-au.org and http://maep-ua.org);

• The Mozambique Country Review Report was

launched (March 2011);

• An APRM Report on Best Practices emanating

from the Review exercise undertaken in 13

Countries was published and circulated in June

2011, during the 15th APRM Forum Summit held in

Malabo, Equatorial Guinea.

• An APRM Exhibition was organized on the

margins of the 15th Summit of the APR Forum in

Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. Promotional materials,

media preparations, Newsletters, and Press

Releases were made available at the APRM Stand.

Interviews with prominent APRM stakeholders

were also organized at the Exhibition; and

• The 1st Panel Retreat with APRM Strategic Partners

and Stakeholders took place in October 2011. The

deliberations focused on the challenges facing

the APRM, as well as the transition of the APRM

as an Autonomous Organ within the AU System.

The recommendations from the Retreat are being

implemented to strengthen the Mechanism and

pave the way for its smooth functioning.

These are just some of the events that took place during

this eventful year. The APRM has profited immensely

from these achievements, and the Mechanism looks

forward to an even more promising year 2012, in which

more countries are expected to accede to the APRM and

enjoy the fruits of good governance.

Mr Assefa shifaChief Executive Officer of the APRM Secretariat

iNTROduCTiON by ThE ChiEF ExECuTivE OFFiCER

OF ThE APRM SECRETARiAT


i. ACTiviTiES uNdERTAkEN iN 2011

A. fORuM Of heAds Of stAte And GOveRnMent

The APR Forum is the Committee of Participating Heads of State and Government of the Member States of the African Union that have voluntarily acceded to the African Peer Review Mechanism. The APR Forum has the ultimate responsibility for oversight of the organization and processes of the APRM, for mutual learning and capacity building, and for exercising the constructive peer dialogue and peer pressure required to make the APRM effective, credible and technically sound. In this perspective, one of the most important missions of the APR Forum is to hold Summits to consider, adopt and take ownership of Country Review Reports submitted by the APRM Panel.

Two Summits of the APR Forum were held in 2011: the first one in January in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and the second, in June in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea.

1. 14th summit of the APR forum: Peer Review of ethiopia and Progress Report on implementation of nPOAs

The 14th Summit of the APR Forum was held on 29 January 2011 at the African Union Commission Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The Summit was chaired by H. E. Meles Zenawi, Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Ethiopia.

In his welcome address, H.E. Meles Zenawi, Chairperson of the APR Forum, expressed his pleasure in hosting the distinguished gathering in Ethiopia. He indicated that the Meeting would proceed with the peer review of Ethiopia and consider the Progress Reports of Nigeria, Lesotho, South Africa and the Draft Operating Procedures for the APRM prepared by the Committee of Focal Points.

1.1. the Peer Review of ethiopia

His Excellency Armando E. Guebuza, President of the Republic of Mozambique, chaired the Session on the peer review of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. The Session focussed on the Country Review Report of Ethiopia covering Democracy and Political Governance, Economic Governance and Management, Corporate Governance and Socio-economic Development, as presented by Barrister Akere Muna, Lead Panel Member for the Ethiopia Review Process. Barrister Muna highlighted the key strengths of Ethiopia, including the fact that it was a Symbol of African Resistance to Colonialism, as well as its recent high economic growth rate.

The APRM Report highlighted a number of commendable practices including Ethiopia’s

hosting of the Headquarters of the African Union, the overhauling and development of road networks through the ten-year Road Sector Development Programme, assertiveness on self-reliant planning, the pro-poor expenditure pattern which ensures that, on average, 90% of the Government Capital Budget is allocated to enhance pro-poor growth and social development sectors such as Agriculture, Food Security, Roads, Irrigation, Education, Water and Sanitation. The Session also noted, as commendable, the establishment of the Ethiopian Commodity Exchange and its approach to microfinance, access to markets and the strong governmental macro-economic policy, which have yielded broad-based economic growth. The peer review highlighted some challenges, to which the Ethiopian Government responded, in an appendix to the Country Review Report. It was observed that the task ahead consisted in implementing the National Programme of Action (NPOA).

FORuM’S ObSERvATiONSThe APR Forum congratulated H. E. Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, the Government and the People of Ethiopia on the peer review. The Heads of State and Government further advised that every country be reviewed on the basis of the strategic options it has adopted as well as the political and economic situation of that particular country.



1.2. Progress Report on implementation of the nigeria nPoA

Initially, the APRM Progress Reports on the National Programme of Action (NPoA) of the reviewed countries were to be submitted to the Secretariat six months after the Heads of State and Government of the participating member countries have peer-reviewed the Country Review Reports. However, this period was later amended to one year and Member Countries have since been reporting on their progress annually.

At the 14th Summit of the APR Forum that was chaired by H. E. Meles Zenawi, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, H. E. Goodluck Jonathan, presented the first Progress Report of Nigeria. H.E. Goodluck Jonathan gave the following highlights over the period under consideration:

• Nigeria set up a 14-member Inter-Ministerial Committee on the Domestication of APRM Standards and Codes on 18 June 2009, to ensure that the country’s National Programme of Action (NPoA) was speedily implemented;

• Nigeria contained the minor and major conflicts ranging from ethno-religious conflicts, communal clashes between residents of some communities in different parts of the country, conflicts over new administrative boundaries and political elections, and militants’ activities in the oil-rich Niger Delta Region, as well as post-election violence in Jos Plateau.

• Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Mechanisms such as Mediation, Arbitration and Early Neutral Evaluation were established to reduce the workload of Nigeria’s Conventional Courts, decongest the Court dockets and limit the excessive costs and undue delay incurred in obtaining access to justice;

• The Child Rights Act, which was passed into law in 2003, has been adopted by 23 States, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT);

• In response to the global economic crisis, the Central Bank adjusted the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) downward from 9.75% to 8% and 6% in April and July 2009 respectively within the period under review. The economic growth in 2009 also improved to 6.9% against 5.99% recorded in 2008. The Nigerian Economy reform process mandated the Bureau of

Public Enterprises (BPE) to effectuate the privatization and commercialization of public enterprises. Educational institutions were also allocated more funds.

• The Nigerian Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) strengthened anti-money laundering policies throughout year 2009 by investigating and prosecuting suspects. The EFCC also remains committed to fighting corruption in Nigeria.

• With regard to regional integration, especially within the West Africa Sub-region, Nigeria has dismantled all the road blocks along the border towns to facilitate movement of eligible goods and services. With the introduction of harmonized ECOWAS Passports, citizens of ECOWAS Member States can now move around without hindrance.

• H.E. Goodluck Jonathan informed the Forum that the Federal Ministry in charge of the Niger Delta Affairs was created by the Federal Government in September 2008 in order to demonstrate the Government’s commitment to the development of the region.

FORuM’S ObSERvATiONSThe Forum commended the Nigerian Government for building a strong national economy and encouraged the Government to intensify the socio-economic development programmes underway for the benefit of the entire population of Nigeria.

1.3. Progress Report on Implementation of the Lesotho NPoA

At the 14th Summit of the APR Forum, the Right Honourable Pakalitha Bethuel Mosisili, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Lesotho, presented his country’s first Progress Report on the National Programme of Action to the Forum. The highlights of the Progress Report were as follows:

• Despitetheshortageofresourcesrequiredforimplementation of the NPoA, the Government of the Kingdom of Lesotho strengthened the anti-corruption agency and implemented public financial management reforms through the introduction of the new Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS); the

9 2011 APRM Annual Report8 2011 APRM Annual Report

relevant legislation for the protection of the rights of women and the youth was drafted and a Service Delivery Office was established to spearhead the enhancement of service delivery across the public service;

• Capacityforimplementationwasenhancedwith support from the public as it became necessary to improve financial management systems that would also enhance transparency and accountability; the capacity for macroeconomic planning and for building robust monitoring and evaluation systems was significantly enhanced;

• FollowingtheGovernment’sinstructiontorevamp the National Development Plan (NDP), a unit was established within the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) to lead the process, and government ministries were sensitized about the process. The Government continued to implement the Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and the country’s Growth Strategy.

• PrimeMinisterPakalithaBethuelMosisilialsoinformed the Forum that Lesotho established the Commercial Court and the completion of the draft bill for the New Companies Act, which resulted in the speedy resolution of commercial disputes, thus improving the climate for doing business in the country. In addition, Lesotho established the Lesotho Business Council, a forum where the Government and the Private Sector plan together and discuss all relevant business issues.

• TheEducationBill,whichprovidedforcompulsoryeducation, was enacted and this brought about some improvement in the already existing policies regarding free Primary Education For All; significant achievements were also made, particularly in terms of mainstreaming gender and HIV/AIDS in the country’s programmes and legislative frameworks.

FORUM’S OBSERVATIONS The Forum congratulated the Right

HonourablePakalitha Bethuel Mosisili, the Government and People of Lesotho, on their first Progress Report. The Forum also commended the achievements made within the period under consideration and looked forward to Lesotho’s Second Progress Report.

2. 15th summit of the APR forum: Progress Reports on implementation of the nPoA of Benin and Burkina faso.

The 15th Summit of the Committee of Heads of State and Government Participating in the African Peer Review Mechanism (APR Forum) was held on 29 June 2011 at Sipopo Conference Centre in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. The Forum considered Progress Reports on the implementation of the National Programmes of Actions presented by Benin and Burkina Faso at a session chaired by H.E. Meles Zenawi, Prime Minister of Ethiopia and Chairperson of the APR Forum.

On the margins of the 15th Summit, the APRM Secretariat participated in an exhibition where APRM reports and reviews were highlighted through books, video and other media. APRM staff answered APRM-related questions from members of the public.

2.1. Progress Report on implementation of the Benin nPoA

Benin’s Country Review Report was considered by the Heads of State and Government of the participating Member Countries in January 2008. Benin presented its First NPoA Progress Report in January 2009. The country presented its Second Progress Report in June 2011 at the 15th Summit of the APR Forum in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. The highlights of the Report presented by His Excellency President Thomas Boni Yayi were as follows:

• Benin continued to promote democracy and the rule of law through political dialogue and the enactment of laws regulating political life in Benin. These included the decree on the implementation of a statute on the Opposition, the decree on the financing of political parties, and particularly the creation and installation of the National Standing Committee for Consultation and a Government/Trade Union collective bargaining.

• The Government of Benin has created a political class comprising community leaders and elders, former Presidents of the Republic who are still alive, royalty and dignitaries from various religious communities, with responsibility to resolve conflicts and reach a political consensus on issues of prime concern in building a democratic State. Civil Society Organisations, the High Commissioner for Collaborative Governance and the Board of the Ombudsman of the Republic, equally contribute, through their advocacy, mediation or conciliation, to the preservation of peace and democracy in Benin.


• Despite the adverse effects of the global financial crisis, Benin has continued to implement its fiscal consolidation and the SME promotion policy in particular by organising a forum on the private sector and taking measures to streamline procedures on taxation in certain development areas, to promote a more effective taxation in the service of economic growth and the well-being of the people.

• At the social level, in 2009, apart from various measures taken to facilitate people’s access to school and health care (especially for children under the age of five and pregnant women), the year 2009 was marked by the construction and equipment of socio-medical centres.

• The Government of Benin introduced a social dialogue policy through a permanent dialogue process organized at national level with all socio-occupational groups on the major issues of national interest.

• However,PresidentBoniYayipointedoutthatcorruption, poverty and the global economic crisis were impacting heavily on the socio-economic development of the country.ATIONS

FORUM’S OBSERVATIONS The Forum congratulated the Government of

Benin on the quality of the country’s Second Progress Report. It particularly commended the Benin Government for the ongoing democratic process and consensus building, Benin’s peaceful coexistence with neighbouring countries and the provision for the welfare of the citizenry.

2.2.Progress Report on implementation of the Burkina faso nPoA

President Blaise Compaoré presented the Second Progress Report on the implementation of Burkina Faso’s NPoA at the 15th Summit of the APR Forum that was held in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, in June 2011. He highlighted the following aspects among the significant achievements recorded in the process:

• Burkina Faso addressed the issue of politicization of Civil Service administration by publishing operating manuals for civil servants to ensure transparency in recruitment and public service delivery.

• The Government of Burkina Faso adopted on 26 May 2010, a Plan of Action to operationalise the National Policy on Justice, and was in the final stages of formulating a National Policy on Human Rights, with an accompanying Plan of Action.

• With regard to the assumption of Decision-Making Functions, Burkina Faso was improving the social and legal status of women and public sensitisation activities were envisaged with a view to addressing the socio-cultural aspects of gender discrimination.

• The Government of Burkina Faso established a National Youth Council and 13 Regional Youth Councils to ensure proper consultation between the Government and the Youth. The Government was also addressing the youth unemployment problem by providing more funds to the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMES) to support the Youth.

• To enhance economic competitiveness, the Government of Burkina Faso took measures to promote private investment in the country’s telecommunications sector. It also extended assistance to 4256 entrepreneurs and chief executives in 2010 as part of the private sector support programme.

• The Government intensified awareness campaigns in the framework of the fight against HIV/AIDS and the prevalence rate dropped to 1. 2 per cent in 2010.

• In the area of decentralization, the Government succeeded in decentralizing to the communes (districts) responsibility for public service delivery in the following areas: health; pre-primary and primary education; literacy, culture, youth, sports and recreation programs, potable water supply and sanitation.

FORUM’S OBSERVATIONS The Forum congratulated the Government of Burkina Faso on the quality of its Report and commended Burkina Faso for recording a low HIV/AIDS prevalence rate. The Forum took note of the impact of climate change in the Sahelian region and advised the Government of Burkina Faso to take appropriate measures to combat the scourge in the country.


B. OveRview Of AssessMents: uPdAte On cOuntRY Review PROcesses

The 2011-2013 Work Plan is the third three-year schedule completed by the APRM, following the 2008-2010 Plan developed in 2007and the 2009-2011 Plan developed in 2009. Throughout 2011, the APR Panel and the APRM Secretariat fielded various Missions to promote APRM activities in the Member States. These included:

• A Follow-up Mission to Sierra Leone (12-14 April 2011);

• A Support Mission to Djibouti (21-24 February 2011); and

• A Follow-up Mission to Gabon (21-22 October 2011) for the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

As at December 2011, fourteen (14) APRM Member Countries had been peer-reviewed. Ethiopia was peer-reviewed at the 14th Summit of the APR Forum Summit held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in January 2011. Sierra Leone and Zambia hosted APRM Country Review Missions in 2011, and were due for peer review at the 16th Summit of the APR Forum Summit scheduled for January 2012 in Ethiopia while Kenya was to undergo its second peer review at the same Summit Meeting.

This section reports on APRM progress in each member country and sub-region. The thirty member countries represent all five sub-regions, and over 75 per cent of Africa’s population.

There are four (4) APRM Member States from Central Africa: Cameroon, Republic of Congo, Gabon and São Tome and Principe.

1. centRAl AfRicA

1.1. cAMeROOn

Cameroon acceded to the APRM on 3 April 2003. Despite the fact that Cameroon is one of the pioneer countries that joined the APRM, its review process has been very slow. The country has to establish its national APRM structures that will supervise the preparation of the Country Self-Assessment Report (CSAR). An Advance Mission to Cameroon is planned for 2012.

1.2 RePuBlic Of cOnGO

The Republic of Congo acceded to the APRM in 2003. Efforts are being made to reinvigorate the APRM process in the country. The APRM National Commission has been constituted and it is awaiting the date of its launch. An Advance Mission to the Republic of Congo is planned for 2012.


There are six (6) APRM Member States from East Africa: Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda.

2. eAst AfRicA

2.1. djiBOuti

Djibouti acceded to the APRM in June 2007. In 2011, Djibouti embarked on the APRM Self-assessment exercise, which is expected to be completed in 2012. A Support Mission to Djibouti took place in February 2011. It was led by Barrister Julienne Ondziel-Gnelenga, Lead Panel Member in charge of the Djibouti Review Process. Djibouti is committed to completing its Country Self-Assessment Report and submitting it by June 2012, to pave the way for a review mission in August 2012 and the peer review in January 2013.

2.2. ethiOPiA

Ethiopia was peer-reviewed at the 14th APR Forum of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa on 29 January 2011. At the peer review, the highlights of the Review Report on Ethiopia were presented by Barrister Akere Muna, Lead Panel Member in charge of the Ethiopia Review Process. The Country Review Report is being finalized for publication, and the Report is expected to be launched in 2012.

1.3. GABOn

A Follow-up Mission for the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Technical Assessments and Country Review Visits by the Lead Panel Member and the President of Gabon was conducted from 20 to 21 October 2011. The MoU was signed on 21 October 2011. Professor Mohamed Séghir Babès, the Lead Panel Member in charge of the Gabon Review Process, was represented during the Mission by Barrister Akere Tabeng Muna. A Road map was discussed during the Mission and Gabon is expected to host an APRM Review Mission in 2012.

1.4. sAO tOMe & PRinciPe

São Tome & Principe acceded to the APRM in 2007. Efforts are being made to invigorate the APRM process in the country.


2.3. kenYA

Kenya is the first Member State to have received a second APRM Country Review Mission, which took place from 16 to 31 July 2011. The Second Review of Kenya was led by Professor Amos Sawyer, Lead Panel Member in charge of the Kenya Review Process, accompanied by a team of African experts.

The Country Review Mission (CRM) was officially launched on 18 July 2011 by President Kibaki and the Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Raila Odinga. The CRM also held meetings with other government officials, including the Vice-President, the Speaker of Parliament, several Cabinet Ministers and other senior government officials to discuss progress in the implementation of Agenda 4 of the Kenya National Dialogue and Reconciliation (KNDR) framework. The Country Review Team (CRT) also consulted with a diverse range of stakeholders, including the National Governing Council, which oversees the implementation of the APRM in the country, and several Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), including Maendeleo Ya Wanawake Organization (MYWO, the National Women’s Organisation), the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), Youth Groups, Uraia (Kenya’s National Civic Education Programme), the Kenya Land Alliance (KLA), Disabled Groups and the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), among others.

The CRT visited several counties and cities. It held consultative forums with stakeholders in Nairobi, Narok, Nakuru, Eldoret, Kakamega, Kisumu, Kitui, Garissa, Kitale, Mombasa, Isiolo, Meru and Nyeri.

The Country Review Report is ready for tabling at a Summit of the APR Forum in 2012.

2.4. RwAndA

Rwanda was peer-reviewed at the 5th Summit of the APR Forum that was held in Banjul, The Gambia, in June 2006. The Country presented its Second Annual Progress Report on the Implementation of the NPoA in January 2009. A Second Review Mission to Rwanda is planned for 2013.

2.5. tAnzAniA

Tanzania acceded to the APRM in 2004. It submitted a revised Country Self-Assessment Report (CSAR) in September 2011. A Country Review Mission is scheduled for the first quarter of 2012

2.6. uGAndA

Uganda was the seventh country peer-reviewed at the Summit of the APR Forum held in June 2008 in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt. President Yoweri Museveni presented the 1st Progress Report on the Implementation of the NPoA in January 2010. The Second Consolidated Report covering 2010-2011 is scheduled to be presented at a Summit of the APR Forum in 2012.


3. nORth AfRicA

3.1. AlGeRiA

Algeria was peer-reviewed at the 7th Summit of the APR Forum held in Accra, Ghana, in July 2007. Algeria presented its First Annual Progress Report on the Implementation of the National Programme of Action (NPoA) at the 10th Forum held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in January 2009. The country’s Second Progress Report is expected to be presented at a Summit of the APR Forum in 2012.

3.2. eGYPt

Egypt acceded to the APRM in 2003. Efforts are being made to reinvigorate the APRM process in the country. An Advance Mission to Egypt is planned for 2012.

3.3. MAuRitAniA

Mauritania acceded to the APRM in 2008. Efforts are being made to invigorate the APRM process in the country.

3.4. sudAn

Sudan acceded to the APRM in 2003 and received an Advance Mission in October 2009. A Country Support Mission to the country is planned for 2012.

There are four (4) APRM Member States from North Africa: Algeria, Egypt, Mauritania and Sudan.


4. sOutheRn AfRicA

4.1.AnGOlA

Angola hosted a NEPAD/APRM Conference in 2007. Efforts are being made to invigorate the APRM process in the country. An Advance Mission to Angola is planned for 2012.

4.2. lesOthO

Lesotho was peer-reviewed at the 11th Summit of the APR Forum held in Sirte, Libya, in June 2009. The country’s First Annual Progress Report on the Implementation of the NPoA was presented at the 14th Summit of the APR Forum held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in January 2011. The country has now embarked on a nationwide APRM popularization programme and it is finalising its Second Annual Progress Report for 2011-2012.

4.3. MAlAwi

Although Malawi acceded to the APRM in July 2004, it has not yet established the functional APRM structures to steer the preparation of the APRM Country Self-Assessment Report (CSAR). The process got stalled partly because of the 2009 elections. There is a need to reinvigorate the APRM process in the country. An Advance Mission to Malawi is planned for 2012.

4.4. MAuRitius

Mauritius was peer-reviewed at the 13th Summit of APR Forum of Heads of State and Government in Kampala, Uganda, on 24 July 2010. The Country Review Report is to be launched in 2012. The country is currently implementing its National Programme of Action (NPoA).

.

Seven (7) APRM Member States of the APRM are from Southern Africa: Angola, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, South Africa and Zambia.

4.5. MOzAMBique

Mozambique is the 11th country peer-reviewed at the 11th Summit of the APR Forum held in Sirte, Libya, in June 2009. The Country Review Report was launched in Maputo on 26 May 2011. The country is currently working on its Progress Report


5. west AfRicA

Nine Member States of the APRM are from West Africa: Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Liberia, Mali, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone and Togo.

4.6. sOuth AfRicA

South Africa was the fourth APRM Member State peer-reviewed at the 7th Summit of the APR Forum held in Accra, Ghana, on 1st July 2007. At the 15th Summit held in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, in June 2011, South Africa presented its Consolidated Second Progress Report covering the period from January 2009 to September 2010.

4.7. zAMBiA

The Country Review Mission (CRM) to Zambia took place from 7 to 25 February 2011. It was led by Professor Amos Sawyer, Lead Panel Member in charge of the Zambia Review Process. The CRM was launched through an audience with His Excellency President Rupiah Banda. CRM consultations commenced in the capital city and the CRT visited the North-western (Kolwezi), Copperbelt (Ndola), Western (Mongu), Southern (Livingstone), Laupula (Kasama), Northern (Mansa) Central (Kabwe) and Eastern (Chipata) regions. Zambia is ready for its peer review in 2012.

5.1. Benin

Benin was peer-reviewed at the 8th APR Forum held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in January 2008. Benin presented its Second Progress Report on the Implementation of the NPoA at the 15th APRM Summit held in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, in June 2011. The country has embarked on a training campaign for APRM Focal Points at the district level in order to promote a broad-based participatory approach and follow-up to the implementation of its National Programme of Action (NPOA).

5.2. BuRkinA fAsO

The peer review of Burkina Faso took place at the First Extraordinary Session of the APR Forum held on 29 October 2008 in Cotonou, Benin. In June 2011, Burkina Faso presented its Second Progress Report on the Implementation of the National Programme of Action (NPoA) at the 15th APRM Summit in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. The country has commenced the second phase of implementation of its NPoA recommendations and reforms, and it is expected to present its Third Progress Report in July 2012.


5.3. GhAnA

Ghana was the first country to complete its peer review in June 2005. The country has regularly submitted Annual Progress Reports on the Implementation of its National Programme of Action (NPoA). A Second Review Mission to Ghana is scheduled for 2013.

5.4. liBeRiA

Liberia acceded to the APRM in January 2011 at the 14th Summit of the APR Forum held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. An Advance Mission to the country is planned for 2012.

5.5. MAli

Mali was the 10th country peer-reviewed by the APR Forum at the Summit held in Sirte, Libya, in June 2009. The Country Review Report was officially launched in September 2010 and the implementation of the NPoA started thereafter. Mali is yet to present its First Progress Report on the Implementation of the NPoA.

5.6. niGeRiA

Nigeria hosted its Country Review Mission in 2008. The Peer Review of Nigeria began at the Ninth Summit of the APR Forum held in Sharm-El Sheikh, Egypt, on 29 June 2008 and was concluded at the First Extraordinary Session of the APR Forum held on 29 October 2008 in Cotonou, Benin. Nigeria implemented its National Programme of Action (NPoA) and presented its First Annual Progress Report at the 14th Summit of the APR Forum in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in January 2011. The country submitted its Second Progress Report to the Panel in December 2011. The Report is expected to be presented at the 16th Summit of the APR Forum in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in January 2012.

5.7. seneGAl

Senegal acceded to the APRM in 2004. Efforts are being made to invigorate the APRM process in the country.


5.8. sieRRA leOne

The Follow-up Mission to Sierra Leone took place from 12 to 14 April 2011. Barrister Akere Muna, Lead Panel Member for the Sierra Leone Review Process, led the Mission whose goals included:

• Introducing the new Lead Panel Member for Sierra Leone to H.E. Ernest Bai Koroma, President of Sierra Leone, and to other leaders and stakeholders;

• Deliberating with the Minister of Political & Public Affairs, the Focal Point, as well as the National Governing Council (NGC), on a date for the Review Mission; and

• Reaching an Agreement on the Draft Programme of the Review Mission.

The Mission Team met with the President of Sierra Leone, as well as APRM stakeholders, including the Media and Civil Society. During the Mission, it was agreed that the requisite conditions had been fully met to allow for the fielding of the APRM Country Review Mission to Sierra Leone the following month.

The Sierra Leone Country Review Mission (CRM) took place from 21 May to 6 June 2011. The CRM was led by Barrister Akere Muna, The CRM comprised African experts, selected by virtue of their competence and experience in Governance and Socio-economic Development in the various fields covered by the APRM.

The CRM held three meetings with President Ernest Bai Koroma. The meetings respectively took place at the start of the Mission, at the Official Launch of the Review Mission and at a Pre-Cabinet Session with the President and Ministers at the end of the Review Mission. Meetings were also held with people from all levels of government, including Ministers, the Secretary to the Cabinet, Permanent Secretaries, Departmental/Divisional Heads, Resident Ministers or their Deputies representing the Administration in the Eastern, Southern and Northern regions, as well as the Mayor and the Deputy Mayor of Freetown.

In the course of the Mission, the CRM held fruitful discussions with representatives of state institutions including the Anti-Corruption Commission, Statistics-Sierra Leone, the Human Rights Commission, the National Commission for Democracy, the Ombudsman, the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA), the Auditor-General, the Political

Parties Registration Commission and the National Electoral Commission.

The CRM also interacted with Civil Society and Private Sector representatives, including the Sierra Leone Labour Congress, the Inter-Religious Council, Women’s Groups, Youth Organizations, the Sierra Leone Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, the Sierra Leone Indigenous Business Association and other members of the Private Sector.

The Country Review Report is to be tabled and discussed at the peer review session of the 16th Summit of the APR Forum in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in January 2012.

5.9. tOGO

Togo acceded to the APRM in June 2008 at the APRM Forum held in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt. A Focal Point has been appointed and members of the APRM National Commission have been identified. A sensitization campaign is underway across the country for the purposes of greater awareness and broad-based participation in the APRM. An Advance Mission to the country is scheduled for 2012.


1. APRM/ strategic Partners’ collaborative activities

The APR Panel held a meeting with the three Strategic Partners of the APRM (UNDP, ECA and AfDB) in Addis Ababa on 28 January 2011. At the meeting, the APR Panel reiterated their desire to see relations with Strategic Partners reinvigorated. The Strategic Partners reaffirmed their commitment to continue supporting the APRM as mandated by the Forum. They also agreed to promote synergy between APRM and other African Institutions implementing governance–related programmes such as the Coalition for Dialogue on Africa (CODA), African Governance Forum (AGF) and African Governance Report (AGR). The Strategic Partners also welcomed the proposal to develop a good working arrangement with the APRM Focal Points and contribute to the capacity building process within the APRM Secretariat.

UNDP, AfDB and ECA took active part in the Zambia Review Mission from 7 to 25 February 2011 and made pertinent inputs to the review of the country. They also participated in the Country Support Mission to Djibouti that was led by Barrister Julienne Gnelenga from 21 to 24 February 2011.

The Strategic Partners participated in the Sierra Leone Review Mission from 16 May to 7 June 2011 and made important contributions to the Country Review Report. Sierra Leone was peer-reviewed in January 2012. Led by Professor Amos Sawyer, the Strategic Partners joined other Consultants to participate in the Second Review Mission to Kenya from 16 to 31 July 2011.

In 2011, the APRM Secretariat finalised the revision of the APRM Questionnaire and developed a Draft Monitoring, Reporting and Evaluation (MR&E) Framework through the Project on Streamlining and Fast-tracking the APRM Process. One of the first outputs of the Project was a Validation Workshop that was held on 16 and 17 March 2011 in Johannesburg, South Africa. The APR Panel, Focal Points and representatives from about 20 APRM Member States, Strategic Partners, Experts in the four thematic areas and Civil Society members carefully examined and made suggestions for the improvement of the draft documents. Experts exchanged experiences and shared best practices and information about ongoing and planned activities geared towards improving the quality of documents presented to them. Participants in the Validation Workshop made recommendations aimed at simplifying and administering the Questionnaire and working out the ideal methodology for conducting the APRM self-assessment process.

The Revised Questionnaire was tabled at the 15th Summit of the APR Forum held in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. The Summit concluded its deliberations by requesting the Focal Points to review the Revised Questionnaire and submit their recommendations thereon for consideration at the next Summit in January 2012.

2. conferences, workshops and Meetings

In 2011, the continental Mechanism remarkably participated in a number of conferences, meetings and workshops to implement its advocacy programme, disseminate information, share experience and promote partnership with other institutions.

c. PARtneRshiP develOPMent And PARticiPAtiOn in MeetinGs

At its 6th Summit held in Abuja on 9 March 2003, the Heads of State and Government decided that the APRM should have Strategic Partners to conduct technical assessments on countries to be reviewed. The APRM has identified the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA),the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the United Nations Development Programme Regional Bureau for Africa (UNDP RBA) to conduct technical assessments on Democracy and Political Governance, Economic Governance and Management, Corporate Governance and Socio-economic development.

The Strategic Partners have also been actively participating in APRM Country Support Missions and Country Review Missions. They have been instrumental in supporting the implementation of National Programmes of Action (NPoA) in the reviewed countries as well. As the APRM process moves on to Second Review Missions and Monitoring of the NPoA, more support will be required from these institutions and other stakeholders.


2.1. Africa/ european union Partnership

From 11 to 14 February 20111, the Secretariat participated in a high-level meeting on Partnership between the European Union Commission and Africa.

The Meeting discussed the rationale of the Governance Incentive Tranche (GIT) and its usefulness to Africa to the extent that it is Africa-owned, and recommended that:

• The key principle of ownership of the partnership put the APRM at the centre of governance in Africa and EU support to Africa should be built around it;

• The AUC Department of Political Affairs should be involved in the study process;

• Other processes to be supported through the GIT should be aligned to the instruments and processes (support for the ratification of the Charter should be accelerated through the APRM Country Review Missions).

As a follow-up to the above meeting, the Secretariat took part in a meeting on Strengthening Africa-EU partnership, which was organised from 21 to 23 April 2011 by the African Governance Institute (AGI).

The meeting reached a consensus that the APRM should be considered as the main reference instrument for EU support to governance in Africa. The African party insisted that the partnership should be based on the African countries’ development ownership rather than focusing on financial incentives.

In addition, it was recommended that other processes to be supported through the GIT should be aligned with the instruments and processes (Support for the ratification of the Charter should be accelerated through the APRM Country Review Missions).

It was stressed at the meeting that CSOs interested in or working on the APRM should endeavour to establish formal working relations between the APRM and the organisation concerned with a view to certifying any information published on the Mechanism.

2.2. forum on Public-Private Partnership to improve Governance

From 23 to 24 March 2011, the Secretariat participated in a meeting organised by the Commonwealth Business Foundation on “Improving Governance Through Public-Private Partnership”.

The Meeting decided that the African initiatives aimed at fighting corruption should be emulated from the APRM assessments. The theme “Defining African benchmarks for tackling corruption” was

considered too ambitious as the APRM has not

established benchmarks for measuring national

progress in tackling corruption. Further meetings will be organized to discuss African benchmarks to be used by the APRM and AfDB in measuring national progress in fighting corruption in Africa.

2.3. chief executive Officer of APRM secretariat before Pan-African Parliamentarians

One of the striking events of the Fourth Ordinary Session of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) was the presentation given on 19 May 2011 by Mr. Assefa Shifa, Chief Executive Officer of the Secretariat of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM). In a comprehensive presentation, he gave the continental parliamentarians an assessment and a full overview of activities of the Mechanism. He placed the APRM in its socio-historical context before informing the audience about the progress achieved since its creation in 2003.

The CEO encouraged countries that have not yet acceded to the APRM to do so. He stressed the fact that the APRM is not a punitive measure; it is an instrument for advancing good governance and people-centred Socio-Economic Development”. Mr. Assefa Shifa disclosed that the APR Panel Members have embarked on advocacy campaigns to better explain these issues to the various stakeholders and promote accession by new members. He specifically stated that the Pan-African Parliament could play a decisive role at this level, particularly through sensitization activities. The Chief Executive Officer of the APRM Secretariat further suggested that special PAP Sessions be devoted to the discussion of Review Reports adopted by the Forum of Heads of State and Government, as stipulated by the APRM Base Documents.

The Honourable Dr. Moussa Idriss Ndélé, President of PAP, expressed the hope that relations between PAP and APRM would be developed further in a spirit of collaboration and experience sharing.

2.4. sensitization workshop for APRM francophone countries and experience sharing with the Pioneers

From 25 to 27 May 2011, the Secretariat participated in a Sensitization and Experience Sharing Workshop organised by UNDP and ECA – the Strategic Partners of the APRM. The Meeting decided that such workshops should be organised frequently to deepen the countries’ understanding

of the APRM process. The Focal Points present

decided to use the momentum to start their

national processes.


Meanwhile, countries participating in the

workshop presented their draft road map on

the implementation of the national process that

could be used by the APRM Panel/Secretariat to encourage countries to launch the process as soon as possible.

Furthermore, the Strategic Partners agreed to continue organizing such workshops as they stimulate countries and allow for experience sharing between new countries and the pioneers.

Stakeholders from the civil society attended the workshop. However, the appropriate strategy to be adopted to convince the leadership to start the process is yet to be determined.

As it did in West Africa, the Secretariat took part in the workshop organised by ECA to sensitise stakeholders in the Central Africa Region on the APRM.

The main recommendations of the workshop were that such workshops should be organised frequently to deepen the countries’ understanding of the APRM process. In addition, invited countries that are not members of the APRM (Guinea, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire and Equatorial Guinea) were urged to use the momentum to convince their respective Governments to accede to the APRM process.

2.5. Au Meeting on the launching of the African Governance Architecture Platform

From 27 to 28 May 2011, the Secretariat took part in a meeting organised by the African Union Commission to launch the African Governance Platform.

The Meeting decided that the Platform should be built on the existing initiatives, especially around the APRM, as it is more comprehensive and is increasingly gaining credibility.

2.6. AMcOd Meeting on decentralisation and local Governance

From 24 to 26 May 2011, the APRM attended the All Africa Ministerial Conference on Decentralization and Local Development (AMCOD) held in Maputo, Mozambique. The GIZ/AMMCOD resolved to work with APRM on governance issues in Africa.

As a follow-up to the AMCOD in May 2011, the Secretariat participated in the Second Annual Conference on Decentralisation and Local Governance organised by AMCOD from 8 to 10 August 2011.

The Meeting recommended the establishment of partnership with other organisations such as the APRM, CAMPS and UNDP. It also decided to institutionalise Africa Decentralisation Day on August 10. For institutional strengthening, it was recommended that AMCOD embark on the preparation of a Charter with Standards to be ratified by Member States.

2.7. nePAd decade week in new York

An APRM Delegation led by Professor Amos Sawyer participated in the NEPAD 10th Year Anniversary events held from 7 to 10 October 2011 at the UN Headquarters in New York.

The APRM’s participation in the NEPAD Decade Programme was highly desirable not only for the continental Mechanism but also for Africa as a whole, considering that good governance is currently high on the continent’s agenda.

The lessons learnt from the events marking the NEPAD Decade can also reflect on the 10th Anniversary of the APRM, which we are currently working on from the perspective of “APRM :The Journey So Far”.

During the event, APRM was given high visibility through presentations on “Innovation in transforming the Continent’s Governance: The APRM Experience” and “Improving Governance in Africa through APRM: Progress and Challenges”, which were made before an array of African Ambassadors and Permanent Representatives to the UN.

Professor Sawyer made interventions as a High-level Panellist on NEPAD and the MDGs. He featured prominently at a Commemorative Public Lecture at Columbia University and gave media briefings on the APRM.

It is gratifying to note the international community’s keen interest in and endorsement of the APRM, as attested by the recommendation that “APRM must continue to function as envisaged, as it has tremendous


potential to advance good governance and socio-economic development in Africa, and the international community actively encourages the continuation of the peer review process over the coming years”.

Indeed, our participation in the NEPAD event has enhanced the visibility of the APRM. The Secretariat also held official meetings with the Under-Secretary General of the United Nations and Special Adviser on Africa (UNOSAA) and discussed modalities for collaboration between the two offices in enhancing APRM’s outreach and visibility, including ways of ensuring coordinated support from the UN Agencies.

2.8. workshop of the Panel of the wise on strengthening Political Governance for Peace, security and stability in Africa

From 5 to 6 December 2011, the Secretariat attended a Workshop on Strengthening Political Governance, Security and Stability in Africa. The participants commended the work of the APRM especially in highlighting Standards and Codes used in reviewing African governance and writing credible country review reports, which are publicised, despite the challenges.

Participants pointed out that APRM Standards and Codes were enough to guide governance in Africa, but lack of implementation was the main problem. The Meeting added that APRM reports had enough information about governance but African institutions were not utilising them.

It was recommended that APRM reports be made available to all African stakeholders to enable them to utilize information therein. It was also decided that AU, African RECs and Institutions work hand in hand with the APRM to make use of its reports. The participants further agreed to consult the APRM Secretariat, especially during their assessment of country reports. It was also proposed that a think-tank be set up to discuss issues identified in reviewed countries’ reports and bring them up for further discussion at higher levels.

2.9. Africa forum for civil society and Governance Assessment

From 10 to 12 November 2011, the Africa Forum gathered over 100 participants – Civil Society, Research Institutes and UNDP Representatives from more than 30 countries across Africa.

The Africa Forum aimed to connect key actors who wish to advance the civil society’s role in Africa in demanding that governments live up to

their obligations and that people have a say in how they are governed. The Forum demonstrated, with specific tools and country experiences, how a more effective involvement of the Civil Society in governance assessments, both as producers and users of governance data, can promote democratic governance through increased accountability and more inclusive participation.

The Forum also critically reflected on African experiences in conducting civil society assessments, and formulated recommendations on how to make them more relevant and valid locally. Finally, a selection of social accountability tools that make use of new technologies and social media were introduced to participants, with a ‘reality check’ from field practitioners on how best to use them.

On the APRM, the Forum critically reviewed the experience of pioneer countries with regard to the institutionalization of the APRM and learned from positive initiatives which have sought to establish national monitoring systems in the post-review phase, including the voices of the Civil Society, and with effective feedback loops into policy-making.

ii. FiNANCiAl REPORT

The APRM Base Document states that funding for the Mechanism comes from assessed contributions from participating Member States. The document adds that it is essential that the APRM “does not rely on external partners for funding, although such partnerships could be welcome if they were managed in a way that clearly respects African ownership of the APRM and all of its processes”. In addition, “Support from external partners should be sought mainly for the implementation of the National Programme of Action and capacity building to improve performance”.

This chapter provides details on the general status of financial contributions to the APRM in 2011.

The Financial Statement includes Member States’ contributions from the inception in 2003 up to 31 December 2011.

1. Member States’ Contributions

Table 1: Contribution to APRM through dbSA and uNdP as of 31 december 2011

Country date of Accession

Contribution - Previous years(2003 to 2010)

Contribution - Current year (2011)

Overall contributions

Through dbSA Through TRuST FuNd held by

uNdP

Through dbSA

Through TRuST FuNd held by

uNdP

dbSA+uNdP

APRM COuNTRy CONTRibuTiONS *

1 Algeria 09-Mar-03 1,500,000 1,000,000 - - 2,500,000

2 Angola 08-jul-04 400,000 - - - 400,000

3 benin 31-Mar-04 640,000 - - - 640,000

4 burkina Faso 09-Mar-03 700,000 - 100,000 - 800,000

5 Cameroon 03-Apr-03 620,000 - 4,250 - 624,250

6 Congo 09-Mar-03 - - - - -

7 djibouti 01-jul-07 - - 200,000 - 200,000

8 Egypt 09-Mar-04 1,300,000 - - - 1,300,000

9 Ethiopia 09-Mar-03 300,000 - 100,000 - 400,000

10 Gabon 14-Apr-03 200,000 - 625,000 - 825,000

11 Ghana 09-Mar-03 700,000 - - - 700,000

12 kenya 09-Mar-03 600,000 - 200,000 - 800,000

13 lesotho 08-jul-04 500,000 100,000 100,000 - 700,000

14 liberia 29/01/2011 - - - - -

15 Malawi 08-jul-04 200,000 100,000 - - 300,000

16 Mali 28-May-03 800,000 - - - 800,000

1. Member States’ Contributions

Table 1: Contribution to APRM through dbSA and uNdP as of 31 december 2011

Country date of Accession

Contribution - Previous years(2003 to 2010)



Through dbSA Through TRuST FuNd held by

uNdP

Through dbSA

Through TRuST FuNd held by

uNdP

dbSA+uNdP

APRM COuNTRy CONTRibuTiONS * (CONTiNuEd)

17 Mauritania 30-jan-08 - - - - -

18 Mauritius 09-Mar-03 - 100,000 - - 100,000

19 Mozambique 09-Mar-04 700,000 - 100,000 - 800,000

20 Nigeria 09-Mar-03 3,350,000 - 1,000,000 - 4,350,000

21 Rwanda 09-Mar-03 400,000 - - - 400,000

22 São Tome & Principe

28-jan-07 - - - - -

23 Senegal 09-Mar-04 100,000 100,000 - - 200,000

24 Sierra leone 08-jul-04 100,000 - - - 100,000

25 South Africa 09-Mar-03 6,626,914 - 1,460,000 - 8,086,914

26 Sudan 22-jan-06 - - 100,000 - 100,000

27 Tanzania 08-jul-04 100,000 - - - 100,000

28 Togo 29-jun-08 202,000 - - - 202,000

29 uganda 09-Mar-03 300,000 - - - 300,000

30 zambia 22-jan-06 500,000 - 100,000 - 600,000

Sub-Total 20,838,914 1,400,000 4,089,250 - 26,328,164

African Non- APRM Member State

31 libya N/A 100,000 - - - 100,000

Sub-Total 100,000 - - - 100,000

Overall Total 20,938,914 1,400,000 4,089,250 26,428,164

*Country Contributions

Funds totalling $4,089,250 were received from Member States through the APRM Bank Account managed by the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA).


2. Partners’ contributions

Table 2: Partners’ contributions

Partners date of Accession

Contribution - Previous years (2003 to 2010)



Through dbSA Through TRuST FuNd held by uNdP

Through dbSA

Through TRuST FuNd held by uNdP

dbSA+uNdP

bilATERAl PARTNERS

1 Canada N/A - 5,692,169 - - 5,692,169

2 dFid (uk Gov.) N/A - 2,000,000 - - 2,000,000

3 European union N/A - 2,141,901 - - 2,141,901

4 Germany (GTz) N/A 441,387 - - - 441,387

5 italy N/A 300,000 - - - 300,000

6 Spain N/A - 390,419 - - 390,419

7 Switzerland N/A - 896,241 - - 896,241

Sub-Total 741,387 11,120,730 - - 11,862,117

MulTilATERAl PARTNERS

8 Afdb N/A 200,000 - - - 200,000

9 uNdP N/A - 2,750,000 - - 2,750,000

Sub-Total 200,000 2,750,000 - - 2,950,000

PRivATE PARTNER

10 W kellogg Foundation

N/A 315,426 - - - 315,426

Sub-Total 315,426 - - - 315,426

Overall Total 1,256,813 13,870,730 - 15,127,543


iii. MANAGEMENT OF ThE APRM

The APRM Base Document approved by the Heads of State and Government and Implementation Committee and endorsed by the African Union Summit in Durban (South Africa) in July 2002 envisaged the APRM Forum, the APR Panel of Eminent Persons and the APRM Secretariat as the main organisational components of the APRM management process. The role of National Focal Points is also important for the achievement of missions assigned to the APRM.

1. the APRM forum

The APRM Forum is a Committee of Participating Heads of States and Government of the Member States of the African Union that have voluntarily acceded to the APRM. This authority is the highest decision-making body in the APRM. Therefore, the APRM Forum has ultimate responsibility for oversight of the APRM organization and processes, for mutual learning and capacity building, and for exercising the constructive peer dialogue and persuasion required to make the APRM effective, credible and acceptable.

MANDATE OF THE APRM FORUM

- Appoint the APR Panel and its Chairperson;

- Consider, adopt and take ownership of Country Review Reports submitted by the APR Panel;

- Communicate the recommendations of the APR Forum to the Head of State or Government of the reviewed country immediately after the review meeting;

- Exercise constructive peer dialogue and persuasion (through offering assistance or applying appropriate measures) to effect changes in country practices where recommended;

- Persuade development partners to support recommendations approved by the APR Forum by providing technical and financial assistance;

- Transmit APRM Reports to the appropriate African Union (AU) structures in a timely manner;

- Make public, through the APR Secretariat, Country Review Reports and Press Releases pertaining thereto;

- Establish and approve rules of procedure for the APR Forum and approve those for the APR Panel;

- Approve a Code of Conduct for all components of the APRM organisation;

- Ensure that the APR process is fully funded by the participating countries (including non-governmental partners).

The Forum was chaired by H.E. Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, from 2003 to 2007. Since 2007, H.E. Meles Zenawi, of The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, has been serving as its Chairperson.


2. the APR PAnel

The APR Panel exercises oversight of the APRM process with a view to ensuring the independence, professionalism and credibility of the process. It also oversees the selection of the APR Teams and appoints them to conduct country reviews. Other missions of the Panel are as outlined below.

MAndAte Of the APR PAnel

- Recommend appropriate African institutions or individuals to conduct technical assessments;

- Meet when required to review and make objective assessments of the recommendations on the Country Review Reports submitted to it by the APR Secretariat;

- Consider recommendations contained in the Country Review Reports and make recommendations to the APR Forum;

- Submit to the APR Forum all Country Review Reports with recommendations on measures that could be taken to assist the country to improve its governance and socio-economic development performance.

- Develop its own rules of procedures, submit them to the APR Forum for approval and approve those for the APRM Secretariat and the APR Teams.

The Members of the Panel meet approximately four times a year, including ahead of each of the two annual Summits of the APR Forum. This goal was significantly exceeded in 2011, since the Panel met seven times, as summarised in the table below.

Panel Meeting no. date venue

46 15-17 january 2011 johannesburg, South Africa

47 26-27 january 2011 (on the margins of the 14th APR Forum Meetings)

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

48 15 March 2011 johannesburg, South Africa

49 15-16 May 2011 johannesburg, South Africa

50 26-27 june 2011 (on the margins of the 15th APR Forum Meetings)

Malabo, Equatorial Guinea

51 27 October 2011 johannesburg, South Africa

52 8 december 2011 johannesburg, South Africa


iii. MANAGEMENT OF ThE APRM

According to the Base Document, the APRM is directed and managed by a Panel of between 5 and 7 Eminent Persons. The following Members served in 2011:

Prof. Mohamed séghir Babès served as Chairperson of the APR Panel (July 2010 - January 2012). He hails from Algeria. He led the APRM reviews of Burkina Faso and Mauritius in 2008. In 2005, Professor Babès was appointed as Chairman of the National Economic and Social Council of Algeria. Prior to that, he served as Minister of Health and Population, Work and Social Affairs and Veteran Affairs in the Algerian Government.

Barrister julienne Ondziel Gnelenga is a national of the Republic of Congo. She is a Commissioner at the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights. From 1998 to2001, she also served as Special Rapporteur on Women’s Rights in Africa (SRRWA). A lawyer by training, Barrister Gnelenga serves as the Central Africa representative at the ECOSOCC General Assembly. She is also a Member of the Board of the Association for the Prevention of Torture.

Barrister Akere tabeng Muna is founder and former President of Transparency International Cameroon. He is also Vice-Chair on the Transparency International Board. Barrister Muna is a lawyer by training and President of the Pan-African Lawyers Union. He was the former President of the Cameroon Bar Association. In September 2008, Barrister Muna was unanimously elected President of the First Permanent General Assembly of ECOSOCC.

Professor Amos sawyer was the President of the Interim Government of National Unity in Liberia from November 1990 to March 1994. He has served as Associate Director and Research Scholar at the Workshop on Political Theory and Policy Analysis in the Department of Political Science at Indiana University in the United States of America. He is currently Chairman of the Governance Commission of Liberia. In 2005, he wrote the book entitled “Beyond Plunder: Toward Democratic Governance in Liberia.”

The Eminent Persons are “Africans who have distinguished themselves in careers that are relevant to the work of APRM”. The Constitution of the APRM also stipulates that Members of the Panel must be persons of high moral stature and demonstrate commitment to the ideals of Pan-Africanism.


3. the APRM secretariat

In 2011, the APRM Secretariat completed its regular missions with remarkable determination and commitment. The Secretariat achieved its key objectives through its staff and consultants comprising fifteen experienced persons from different African countries and the Diaspora. The Secretariat provided technical, coordinating and administrative support services to the APRM. Its activities were also focused on the preparation and organisation of the Panel Meetings as well as Summits of the APRM Forum. In this regard, it planned and organised Country Review Visits, shared experience and best practices and addressed constraints in the implementation of the National Programmes of Action, etc. In the latter case, the APRM Secretariat focused on improving the APRM Questionnaire and developing a Monitoring, Reporting and Evaluation (MR&E) Framework through the Project on Streamlining and Fast-tracking the APRM Process. The major part of the funding for the Project was provided through a grant from the African Development Bank (AfDB).

To strengthen the strategic positioning of the APRM on the continental and international scene, the Secretariat, led by its Communication Expert, held the first Press Conference in the history of the APRM Panel on 29 January 2011 and actively took part in the AU Exhibition in Addis Ababa on the margins of the 16th African Union Summit, from 30 to 31 January 2011.

the Missions of the APRM secretariat include:

- Maintain extensive database and information on the four APRM areas of focus as well as political and economic developments in all participating countries;

- Prepare background documents for the APR Teams;

- Facilitate technical assistance to participating countries;

- Propose performance indicators and track the performance of each participating country;

- Liaise with participating countries and partner institutions to follow the progress of technical assessments;

- Plan and organise Country Review Missions (CRM);

- Recommend the composition of CRM Teams to the APR Panel and recruit the experts required for research and analysis;

- Liaise with interested external partners and assist participating countries to mobilise resources for capacity building;

- Organise regional workshops in the various APRM areas of focus and convene workshops to share experiences and best practices and address constraints experienced in the implementation of National Programmes of Action;

- Liaise with the institutions issuing the Standards and Codes listed in the Declaration on Democracy, Political, Economic and Corporate Governance (AHG/235(XXXVIII) Annex 2; and

- Ensure full documentation of the APRM processes at country, sub-regional and continental levels to facilitate learning.

4. the national APRM focal Points

The National APRM Focal Points are Ministers or high-level government officials reporting directly to their respective Heads of State or Government. The APRM Focal Point is established soon after a country accedes to the Mechanism and is subsequently responsible for managing the process until the APRM is launched through a Country Mission. Thereafter, a National Commission or Governing Council takes over the management. The Focal Point, however, remains responsible for updating the Head of State or Government on the national progress, facilitating the self-assessment process and liaising with the APRM Panel throughout the exercise. It has been a practice for Focal Points and Panel Members to meet before Summits of the APR Forum to discuss the key issues to be tabled at the Forum as well as to share country experiences in implementing the Mechanism. In addition to this traditional encounter on the margins of Summits of the APR Forum Summit, the APR Panel and the Focal Points met on


several occasions in 2011 to reflect on the Draft Operating Procedures for the APRM.

iv. conclusion And 2012 Perspectives

The outputs achieved by the APRM in 2011 include:

• three Review Missions

• two Follow-up Missions

• one Support Mission

• one Workshop on Streamlining and Fast-tracking the APRM Process

• one Panel Retreat with Strategic Partners and the African Union Commission; and

• seven APR Panel Meetings.

These achievements made by a reduced number of members of the APR Panel and a lean Secretariat are remarkable.

The interim Host Country Agreement signed with the Government of South Africa expired in 2011 and the APR Panel undertook a series of consultations with the Government of South Africa and the AU Commission in April 2011 on the future of the APRM. The consultations culminated in a Special Retreat with the APR Panel that was held on 28 October 2011 in South Africa. The AU Legal Counsel, the Office of the Deputy Chairperson of the AU Commission and the Strategic Partners of the APRM were represented at the Retreat. The participants came up with recommendations on the interim arrangements pertaining to the organizational architecture of the continental Secretariat as well as the modalities for the integration of an autonomous APRM into the structures, systems and processes of the AU in 2012.

Building on the experiences and knowledge amassed so far, the Secretariat will aggressively embark on an experience sharing and advocacy workshops drive in 2012 as part of the learning process, considering the novelty of the Mechanism. The Secretariat will be making a significant investment over the coming years in raising its profile and influence at a continental level. Indeed, the APRM 10th Anniversary will be an opportunity to raise public awareness and develop a deeper understanding of the Mechanism as an African instrument for promoting good governance.

The main initiative will take several forms: Advocacy to countries that have not yet acceded to the APRM to engage them on the Mechanism. The Secretariat will take full advantage of regularly scheduled meetings of the AU and Regional Economic Communities [SADC, COMESA, ECOWAS, etc.] to engage countries, partners and the society at large on the APRM process through workshops and periodic APRM publications.

In addition, the APRM will continue to strengthen its relations with the Pan-African Parliament, the African Commission on Human Peoples’ Rights, the Peace and Security Council and the Economic, Social and Cultural Council of the African Union (ECOSOC-AU) where, normally, the Final Country Review Report should be tabled formally and publicly.

The Secretariat will facilitate peer learning amongst countries that are implementing their National Programmes of Action and those progressing thereto [by compiling best practices on how to draw up and implement a National Programme of Action in the context of other National Plans of Action]. It also plans to organise and attend workshops where issues of common concern or best practices for African countries can be discussed.

African Peer Mechanism secretariat

P.O. Box 1234, Halfway House, Midrand 1685, South Africa

International Bus. Gateway, Cnr Challenger & Columbia Ave; Gateway Park B; Second Floor

Midridge Park; Midrand; Halfway House

Tel: +27 (0) 11 256 3401 Fax: +27 (0)11 256 3456

www.aprm-international.org

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