The secretary General address to the African Union summit

Abstract

This statement addressed by the secretary-General to the African Union Summit. The Secretary-General on his remarks highlighted that, the vision of the Union, the principles that should guide it, and the strategies it should follow are clear and compelling. The architecture of the Union is taking shape. The African Union's efforts to monitor the ceasefire, and thereby assist in the protection of civilians, are vitally important. The Peer Review mechanism is a uniquely African approach to the challenges of African governance. Its promise will only be realized with the political will to make the mechanism work, as a tool to strengthen democratic governance throughout Africa. Democracy is not perfect, and democratization is not easy. However, the more accountable governments are, the more likely they are to be responsive to the needs of their people - whether that need is to prevent famine, fight poverty, or halt the spread of HIV/AIDS. we can fight HIV/AIDS - in Africa, as in every other continent. If that fight is to be won, each and everyone of us must lead from the front. There is no higher duty of governance.