Mahama Criticizes AU’s Dependency on External Funding, Calls for Financial Independence

President John Dramani Mahama has raised concerns about the African Union’s (AU) over-reliance on external funding, arguing that it undermines the organization’s ability to set its own agenda.

Speaking at the opening session of the retreat on implementing institutional reforms of the African Union in Nairobi, Kenya, Mahama emphasized the need for the AU to achieve financial independence.

He called for the immediate implementation of the Kigali Decision on Financing the Union, a resolution adopted by AU leaders at the 2016 Summit in Rwanda, aimed at securing a reliable and predictable source of funding for the organization and reducing its dependency on foreign donors.

Mahama outlined the importance of the AU ensuring accountability, transparency, and value for money, which would ensure that resources are maximized for the benefit of the African people.

He stressed that the over-dependence on external funding compromises the AU’s ability to set its own agenda and maintain independence.

“One of the key pillars of reforms is the AU’s financial autonomy,” he stated. “The reliance on external partners for funding compromises the organization’s independence and its ability to set its own agenda. The implementation of the Kigali decision must be expedited.”

Additionally, President Mahama encouraged African Union member states to increase the representation of women and youth in leadership roles at all levels of governance.

He cited his own decision to appoint Ghana’s first female Vice President as a significant step in empowering women.

“Over 60% of Africa’s population is under the age of 25, yet their voices are often absent from policy-making,” Mahama said. “We must create a framework that empowers both young people and women to take on leadership roles across the continent.”