The Architecture and Capacity of the African Union: By Prof. Maria Nzomo Institute of Diplomacy & International Studies University of Nairobi

Abstract

This statement presented by Prof. Maria Nzomo, Institute of Diplomacy and International studies University of Nairobi at the Architecture and Capacity of the African Union. Prof. Nzomo, on her remarks highlighted that, The perennial problem of many African initiatives such as the AU and NEPAD is good statements and resolutions of intent are rarely matched by genuine collective commitments and capacities for sacrifice and monitoring or implementing these resolutions. This is one area where the AU has an opportunity to ensure the engagement of African people to feel a sense of ownership of this body and to be encouraged to support it as another talk shop of state functions. Africa needs to strengthen its indigenous resource base and reduce its overdependence on external bilateral and multilateral funding sources. There is thus urgent need to diversify its production base and lobby as a united body, for better international terms of trade, better prices for 1ts export commodities and cheaper prices for imported goods.