Opening remarks by Mr. Carlos Lopes at the APRM FORUM of Heads of States

Abstract

Opening Remarks by Mr. Carlos Lopes at the APRM Forum of Heads of States. Mr. Lopes, on his remarks highlighted that, this panel discussion focuses on various topics and issues emanating from the APRM reviews but also on topical and pertinent developmental challenges facing the African continent in general. The APRM provided an important means towards realizing NEPAD’s goals. The mechanism is also a central component of NEPAD’s transformative agenda that has swept this continent over the last decade – promoting ownership, leadership and transformation in terms of how we undertake development in Africa. The governance framework of the APRM process at the continental level has not been as smooth, cohesive and collective as expected accountability among the Forum, the APR Panel/Secretariat and the national Focal Points need strengthening. The APRM momentum could be rekindled at the continental level if the APRM structures were to find champions at the Forum, Panel, Focal Points and APRM Secretariat levels. The APRM Strategic Partners should also do their part to rekindle the lost momentum and make this a truly African success story.