Draft Lesson

Course Content
INTRODUCTION
Excerpt from the Online Course: Understanding the African Union Agenda 2063 Framework Welcome to the Course Welcome to "Understanding the African Union Agenda 2063 Framework"! This course is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of Africa’s strategic framework for socio-economic transformation over the next few decades. Whether you are a student, policymaker, development professional, or simply interested in Africa’s future, this course will equip you with the knowledge and tools to engage with and contribute to the Agenda 2063 vision. Module 1: Introduction to Agenda 2063 Learning Objectives: Understand the vision and aspirations of Agenda 2063. Familiarize with the background and inception of the Agenda. Identify the key themes and goals of the framework. Overview: Agenda 2063 is Africa’s blueprint for transforming the continent into a global powerhouse of the future. It aims to achieve inclusive and sustainable development, build on the foundations laid by previous initiatives, and respond to emerging challenges and opportunities. Video Lecture: In this module, we will explore the origins and objectives of Agenda 2063. Watch the introductory video where Dr. Amina Ahmed, a leading expert in African development, discusses the genesis and vision of this ambitious framework. Reading Material: Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want Supplementary Article: "Historical Context and Need for Agenda 2063" Interactive Activity: Reflect on the key goals of Agenda 2063 and discuss in the forum how these goals align with the development priorities of your country or region. Module 2: The Seven Aspirations of Agenda 2063 Learning Objectives: Learn about the seven key aspirations driving the Agenda. Understand the significance of each aspiration. Overview: The seven aspirations of Agenda 2063 represent the collective vision and commitment of African nations to achieve a prosperous, integrated, and peaceful continent. These aspirations guide the goals and strategies outlined in the framework. Video Lecture: Join us in a deep dive into each of the seven aspirations. In this video, Professor John Kofi, an esteemed African historian, elucidates how these aspirations reflect the continent’s priorities and values. Infographic: Download the "Seven Aspirations of Agenda 2063" infographic to get a visual summary of the key points. Discussion Prompt: How do you see the aspiration of "A prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development" playing out in your community? Share examples or initiatives that align with this aspiration. Module 3: Flagship Projects of Agenda 2063 Learning Objectives: Gain insight into the flagship projects designed to drive Agenda 2063. Learn about the impact and progress of key projects. Overview: Agenda 2063 includes several flagship projects intended to accelerate development and ensure tangible benefits for African citizens. These projects address infrastructure, education, energy, and technology, among other areas. Case Study Video: Watch the case study video on the "Integrated High Speed Train Network" project. This project aims to enhance connectivity and trade across African countries, facilitating economic growth and regional integration. Assignment: Analyze the potential impact of the Single African Air-Transport Market (SAATM) on regional trade and tourism. Submit a 500-word essay detailing your findings. By the end of this course, you will have a robust understanding of the African Union Agenda 2063 Framework, its aspirations, goals, flagship projects, and the strategies for its implementation. Engage with the materials, participate in discussions, and apply your learning to contribute to the continent’s development journey. We are excited to embark on this educational journey with you and look forward to your active participation.
0/1
Introductory Note
00:00
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Agenda 2063 is the fruit of an immense collaborative effort to reflect on the “Africa We Want by 2063”. Ideas and inputs have therefore been received from Africans of all walks of life, and through a variety of forums and mechanisms, including from the general African citizenry and the Diaspora. Consequently, it is difficult, if not impossible, to acknowledge all the diverse inputs and contributions. The African Union Commission from the onset therefore expresses its gratitude and sincere thanks to all those who contributed to the preparation of Agenda 2063. However, there are organizations and individuals whose role deserves recognition and special mention. The Commission expresses its deep gratitude to the Assembly of the Union, the Executive Council, the Bahir Dar Ministerial Committee on Agenda 2063, as well the Permanent Representatives Committee (PRC) of the AU, for their outstanding leadership in steering the development and final adoption of Agenda 2063. The Commission further gratefully acknowledges the pivotal role of AU Member States, who through written submissions, as well as through participation of their experts in diverse forums, have contributed significantly to the preparation and adoption of Agenda 2063. The Government of the Federal Republic of Ethiopia hosted the first Ministerial Retreat of the Executive Council, 24-26 January 2014 at Bahir Dar, which laid the basis of, and contributed greatly to the development of Agenda 2063. The Commission notes with particular pleasure and gratitude the enthusiasm with which the Forum of Former African Heads of State and Government embraced Agenda 2063 and the richness of their inputs into the process, and wishes to take this opportunity to thank them and the Secretariat of the Forum. Leading African policy makers, including Ministers and national experts also took part in various Ministerial conferences that discussed Agenda 2063. Similarly, many senior African experts participated in continent-wide stakeholder consultations, including from the private sector, academics/think tanks, civil society, planners, women, youth, media, the Diaspora, faith-based groups and others. Their inputs were critical and helped lay the foundations of the Agenda 2063 Framework document. The Executives of the NEPAD Planning and Coordination Agency (NPCA), UNECA and AfDB - Dr. Ibrahim Mayaki, Dr. Carlos Lopez and Dr. Donald Kaberuka - played an outstanding role, sharpened the debate and contributed immensely to shaping Agenda 2063. The Commission sincerely thanks them for their dedication and commitment to this and other continental causes. The Regional Economic Communities are at the forefront of the implementation of Agenda 2063. Fittingly, they also played a key role in its formulation. The Commission takes this opportunity to express its sincere thanks to the Chief Executives of the RECs and their staff for their contributions, and for hosting the Commission’s teams during visits to their respective institutions. In any endeavor, it is important to have a locomotive to drive the process and lead it to a successful conclusion. The Commission gratefully acknowledges the key role played by all the AU Commissioners in this regard. At the political level, the Commissioner for Economic Affairs Dr. Anthony Maruping, on behalf of the Chairperson of the Commission, led the process. At the technical level, our late brother Mr. Mandla Mandonsela, who as Director of Strategic Planning, Policy, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Resource Mobilization (SPPMERM) ably led the Agenda 2063 team; setting the overall strategic direction, overseeing the technical work and managing the necessary partnerships. The Commission takes this opportunity to pay a special tribute to the late Mr. Madonsela for his outstanding leadership, dedication and commitment to the African cause. Ambassadors Febe Potgieter-Gqubule, Basso Sangqu and Lazarous Kapambwe, respectively Deputy Chief of Staff, Chief Advisor and Advisor in the Bureau of the Chairperson similarly made many valuable contributions, which the Commission gratefully acknowledges. The Commission takes this opportunity to express special thanks to the Agenda 2063 Technical team comprised of Dr. Amadou Tijan Jallow, Mr. Yaw Adu-Boahene, Mr. Mersie Ejigu, Mr. Oumar Seck, Mr. Retselisitsoe Mabote and Mr. Kassim M. Khamis for their outstanding contributions. This core team spent many months synthesizing the inputs received from all stakeholders, undertaking the background research and drafting/finalizing the Agenda 2063 documents, namely: Agenda 2063 Framework Document, the Popular Version and the First Ten Year Implementation Plan. Their dedication and commitment has been exemplary. Ms. Christiane Matondo as part of the team also played a key role in the communication and outreach activities on Agenda 2063. Sincere thanks also go to all staff of the Strategic Planning Directorate, in particular, Mr. Christopher Kachiza, Mr. Abdelkreem Ezaldin and Mr. Charles Wangadya, as well as the departmental planners and support staff of SPPMERM for facilitating the stakeholder consultations and contributing in many other ways. Sincere thanks also to all AUC Heads of Departments/Directorates and other Commission staff who in various contributed to Agenda 2063. Sincere thanks also go to staff of the three core AUC partner institutions; members of the Agenda 2063 Technical Committee – the NEPAD Planning and Coordination Agency (Mr. Gengezi Mgidlana); UN Economic Commission for Africa (Adeyemi Dipeolu, Emebet Mesfin, Francis Ikome, Hopestone Chavula and Mama Keita); African Development Bank (Steve Kayizzi-Mugerwa, Chioma Onukogu and other staff); as well as the Joint Secretariat (AUC/AfDB/UNECA). The Commission acknowledges with gratitude, the following additional contributions from these institutions: African Development Bank for the financial and technical resources provided and UNECA for the short-term consultants put at the disposal of the Commission. Finally, the Commission would like to express its appreciation to AU partners in general, especially those involved in the Joint Programme Arrangement (JPA) for Institutional Capacity Building. The Commission takes the opportunity to also sincerely thank the Government of Denmark in particular, as well as the Government of Sweden for their generous support to the work on the preparation of Agenda 2063.
0/1
Collaborative efforts
00:00
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Fifty years after the first thirty-three (33) independent African states gathered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to form the Organization of African Union, now the African Union, the continent is looking ahead towards the next fifty years. On the occasion of the Golden Jubilee of the OAU in May 2013, Africa’s political leadership acknowledged past achievements and challenges and rededicated itself to the Pan African vision of “an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the international arena.” The AU Summit tasked the African Union Commission (AUC), supported by the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) Planning and Coordinating Agency (NPCA), the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), to prepare a 50-year continental agenda through a people-driven process. Agenda 2063 was developed through an extensive consultative process involving various African stakeholders, including the youth, women, Civil Society Organizations, the Diaspora, African Think Tanks and Research Institutions, Government planners, Private Sector, the African media, inter-faith leaders, the Forum for Former African Heads of State and Government, African Islands States and others. In addition, ideas captured from continent wide sector ministerial meetings and meetings with the Regional Economic Communities are included. Outcomes of these consultations form the basis for the Aspirations of the African People, the driver of Agenda 2063. Preparation of Agenda 2063 also included an extensive review of African development experiences, analysis of challenges and opportunities of today, as well as a review of national plans, regional and continental frameworks and technical studies, including drawing upon publications and research materials from many institutions and organizations. The plans and the frameworks reviewed contributed insights for the development of the priorities that form a plank for Agenda 2063, in particular the First 10 Year Implementation Plan. Furthermore, a resource mobilization strategy for Agenda 2063 has been developed looking at strategies for Africa to finance her own development. Lastly, an Agenda 2063 communication strategy has been designed and it is now being implemented with the goal of engaging Africans from all works of life, and the Diaspora to galvanize action in support of Agenda 2063. Agenda 2063, Africa’s endogenous plan for structural transformation and a shared strategic framework for inclusive growth and sustainable development, consists of three dimensions as follows: 1. The Vision for 2063: based on the African Union Vision and the seven aspirations emanating from the voices of the stakeholders consulted, it paints a vivid picture of where Africans would like to see their continent 50 years from now, when Africa would be celebrating the centenary of the founding of the OAU. The vision incorporates milestones, which represent transitions in the journey towards the “Africa we Want” by 2063. 2. The Transformation Framework: presents the foundations on which Agenda 2063 is built, as well as the detailed milestones in the journey in the form of goals, priority areas, targets and indicative strategies. The framework is presented in two comprehensive results matrices; at national and at regional and continental levels. This will facilitate measurement of progress and strengthen accountability for results at all levels. The transformation framework represents the “what must be done” to attain the vision for 2063. 3. Making it Happen: outlines the “how to get there” of Agenda 2063, and treats aspects related to: implementation, monitoring and evaluation principles and responsibilities; financing; partnerships; capacities for implementation; and communication and outreach. The three dimensions described above are presented in the six chapters of the Agenda 2063 Framework document, whose contents are summarized below
0/1
Executive Summary
00:00
CHAPTER 1-4
CHAPTER1: Introduction Chapter 1 outlines the genesis of Agenda 2063 anchoring it on the AU Vision, and the eight ideals of the Solemn Declaration of the Golden Jubilee of the founding of the OAU. It situates Agenda 2063 in the historical context of Pan Africanism, as well as the various transitions marking the responses of African countries to the exegeses of the times. The chapter shows that Agenda 2063 builds upon past and present continental initiatives such as the Monrovia Declaration, the Lagos Plan of Action, the Abuja Treaty and NEPAD, as well as on Africa’s recent positive performance in the economic, social and political fields to put the continent on a new positive trajectory of growth, peace and prosperity. The Agenda draws upon the continent’s rich history, natural resources, people, culture, as well as its institutions at all levels, and capitalizes on the opportunities of changing African and global trends and dynamics. CHAPTER 2: The Vision and African Aspirations for 2063 This chapter presents the Vision for 2063. Africans of diverse social formations1 and in the Diaspora affirmed the AU Vision of “an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the international arena” as the overarching guide for the future of the African continent. Further, they reaffirmed the relevance and validity of the OAU/AU 50th Anniversary Solemn Declaration. The converging voices of Africans of different backgrounds, including those in the Diaspora have painted a clear picture of what they desire for themselves and the continent in the future. From these converging voices, a common and a shared set of aspirations has emerged: 1. A prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development; 2. An integrated continent, politically united, based on the ideals of Pan Africanism and the vision of Africa’s Renaissance; 3. An Africa of good governance, respect for human rights, justice and the rule of law; 4. A peaceful and secure Africa; 5. An Africa with a strong cultural identity, common heritage, values and ethics; 6. An Africa whose development is people-driven, relying on the potential of African people, especially its women and youth, and caring for children; and 7. Africa as a strong, united, resilient and influential global player and partner. These seven aspirations show strong convergence with the AU Vision, and are in line with the eight priorities of the OAU/AU 50th Anniversary Solemn Declaration. Collectively these shared aspirations demonstrate strong continuity of thinking between the OAU founders and the present generation of Africans, albeit in a new dynamic global context. The chapter details what achieving each of the seven aspirations would mean for Africa and her citizenry. For example, the attainment of Aspiration 1 (A prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development) would mean that: • African people will have a high standard of living and quality of life and well-being; • Well educated citizens and skills revolution underpinned by science, technology and innovation for a knowledge society will be broad-based, and no child misses school due to poverty or any form of discrimination; • Citizens are healthy, well-nourished and have long life spans; • Cities, peri-urban and rural communities are equipped with modern communication, sanitation, education and health facilities and are vibrant, dynamic market economies, people have access to affordable and decent housing including, housing finance together with all the basic necessities of life, and social capital is valued and preserved; 1 Different consultations were made with the following stakeholders: Academicians and Think Tanks, Civil Society, Planning Experts from Ministries of Planning, Women, Youth, Media, Private sector, RECs representatives, Forum for Former African Heads of State and Government and others. • Economies are structurally transformed through industrialization, manufacturing and value addition to create shared growth through private sector development, entrepreneurship and decent jobs for all; • Modern agriculture for scaled-up production, improved productivity and value addition through commodity transformation and services, contribute to farmer and national prosperity and food and nutrition security; and • The continent embeds principally adaptation processes to maintain healthy ecosystems, preserve the African natural environment – as the largest remaining reserve of pristine waters, old growth forests and land in the world. The chapter concludes by indicating that at current rates of performance (i.e. a “business as usual” scenario), the continent would neither catch up nor be able to meet the rising expectations of her citizens, especially the youth and women as: • Only a tiny number of countries, which had consistently high growth for the last two decades, will converge with the rest of the world, while the majority of the other countries do not converge, and the fragile countries stay fragile. • Per capita incomes continue to rise at 1.9 per cent annually but given growth in the rest of the world, however, Africa’s per capita incomes would actually diverge further from those of the rest of the world. • The middle-class would increase but after decades would still be only a third of the population. Nearly one in five Africans would, correspondingly, still be mired in poverty. • Finally, given growth elsewhere in the world, Africa’s share of global GDP would stagnate at a low level. Such a scenario, or at worst one of stagnation does not correspond with the aspirations of Africans for their future and is certainly unacceptable. CHAPTER 3: Africa the last Fifty Years and the Present: Progress, Challenges and Implications for Agenda 2063 This chapter takes each aspiration as a point of departure, and presents a comprehensive analysis of progress made and identifies some of the key issues and challenges to be addressed if the vision outlined in chapter 2 is to be attained. While recognizing the tremendous progress the continent has made in all areas, the following summarizes some of the main priorities for action (see annex 1 for a more elaborate summary): • Aspiration 1 (A prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development): ending poverty, inequalities of income and opportunity; job creation; addressing the challenges of rapid urbanization, improvement of habitats and access to basic necessities of life; providing social security and protection; developing Africa’s human and social capital (through an education and skills revolution emphasizing science and technology and expanding access to quality health care services, particularly for women and girls); transforming Africa’s economies through beneficiation from Africa’s natural resources, manufacturing, industrialization and value addition, as well as raising productivity and competitiveness; radically transforming African agriculture to enable the continent to feed itself and be a major player as a net food exporter; exploiting the vast potential of Africa’s blue/ocean economy; and finally putting in place measures to sustainably manage the continent’s rich biodiversity, forests, land and waters and using mainly adaptive measures to address Climate change risks. • Aspiration 2 (An integrated continent, politically united, based on the ideals of Pan Africanism and the vision of Africa’s Renaissance): accelerating progress towards continental unity and integration for sustained growth, trade, exchanges of goods, services, free movement of people and capital through: (i) establishing a United Africa; (ii) fast tracking of the CFTA; (iii) improving connectivity through newer and bolder initiatives to link the continent by rail, road, sea and air; and (iv) developing regional and continental power pools, as well as ICT. • Aspiration 3 (An Africa of good governance, respect for human rights, justice and the rule of law): consolidating democratic gains and improving the quality of governance, respect for human rights and the rule of law; building strong institutions for a development state; and facilitating the emergence of development-oriented and visionary leadership in all spheres and at all levels. • Aspiration 4 (A peaceful and secure Africa): strengthening governance, accountability and transparency as a foundation for a peaceful Africa; strengthening mechanisms for securing peace and reconciliation at all levels, as well as addressing emerging threats to Africa’s peace and security; and putting in place strategies for the continent to finance her security needs. • Aspiration 5 (An Africa with a strong cultural identity, common heritage, values and ethics): inculcating the spirit of Pan Africanism; tapping Africa’s rich heritage and culture to ensure that the creative arts are major contributors to Africa’s growth and transformation; and restoring and preserving Africa’s cultural heritage. • Aspiration 6 (An Africa whose development is people-driven, relying on the potential of African people, especially its women and youth, and caring for children): strengthening the role of Africa’s women through ensuring gender equality and parity in all spheres of life (political, economic and social); eliminating all forms of discrimination and violence against women and girls; creating opportunities for Africa’s youth for self-realization, access to health, education and jobs; and ensuring safety and security for Africa’s children, and providing for early childhood development. • Aspiration 7 (Africa as a strong, united, resilient and influential global player and partner): improving Africa’s place in the global governance system (UNSC, financial institutions, global commons such as outer space); improving Africa’s partnerships and refocusing them more strategically to respond to African priorities for growth and transformation; and ensuring that the continent has the right strategies to finance its own development and reducing aid dependency. CHAPTER 4: Agenda 2063: Goals, Priority Areas, Targets and Indicative Strategies Chapter 4 presents the transformation framework, including the foundation of Agenda 2063, the conceptual approach, and importantly the goals, priority areas, targets and indicative strategies. These are presented in detail in Annexes 3 and 4. Below is a schematic presentation of the foundation of Agenda 2063, the aspirations, as well as the goals. The Table below presents the Aspirations and the related goals and priority areas at national level. Aspirations Goals Priority Areas A prosperous Africa, based on inclusive growth and sustainable development A high standard of living, quality of life and wellbeing for all citizens • Incomes, jobs and decent work • Poverty, inequality and hunger • Social security and protection, including persons with disabilities • Modern, affordable and liveable habitats and quality basic services Well educated citizens and skills revolution underpinned by science, technology and innovation • Education and science, technology and innovation (STI) driven skills revolution Healthy and well-nourished citizens • Health and nutrition Transformed economies • Sustainable and inclusive economic growth • STI driven manufacturing, industrialization and value addition • Economic diversification and resilience • Tourism/Hospitality Modern agriculture for increased productivity and production • Agricultural productivity and production Blue/ocean economy for accelerated economic growth • Marine resources and energy • Port operations and marine transport Environmentally sustainable and climate resilient economies and communities • Sustainable natural resource management • Biodiversity conservation, genetic resources and ecosystems • Sustainable consumption and production patterns • Water security • Climate resilience and natural disasters preparedness and prevention • Renewable energy An integrated continent, politically united, based on the ideals of Pan Africanism and the vision of Africa’s Renaissance A United Africa (Federal or Confederate) • Frameworks and institutions for a United Africa Continental financial and monetary institutions established and functional • Financial and monetary institutions World class infrastructure criss - crosses Africa • Communications and infrastructure connectivity. Aspirations Goals Priority Areas An Africa of good governance, democracy, respect for human rights, justice and the rule of law Democratic values, practices, universal principles of human rights, justice and the rule of law entrenched • Democracy and good governance • Human rights, justice and the rule of law Capable institutions and transformative leadership in place • Institutions and leadership • Participatory development and local governance A peaceful and secure Africa Peace, security and stability is preserved • Maintenance and preservation of peace and security A stable and peaceful Africa • Institutional structure for AU instruments on peace and security • Defence, security and peace A fully functional and operational APSA • Fully operational and functional APSA pillars Africa with a strong cultural identity, common heritage, values and ethics African cultural renaissance is pre- eminent • Values and ideals of Pan Africanism • Cultural values and African Renaissance • Cultural heritage, creative arts and businesses An Africa whose development is people-driven, relying on the potential offered by African people, especially its women and youth, and caring for children Full gender equality in all spheres of life • Women and girls empowerment • Violence and discrimination against women and girls Engaged and empowered youth and children • Youth empowerment and children’s rights An Africa as a strong, united and influential global player and partner Africa as a major partner in global affairs and peaceful co-existence • Africa’s place in global affairs • Partnerships Africa takes full responsibility for financing her development • African capital markets • Fiscal systems and public sector revenue • Development assistance The transformation framework recognizes the diversity of the continent. Each country while being inspired by the same set of goals and targets will develop policies and strategies adapted to its circumstances. Agenda 2063 also emphasizes the need to build on existing frameworks and of integrating the Flagship programs in the First 10-Year Implementation Plan, namely: i) The Integrated High speed Train Network; ii) African Virtual and e-university; iii) African Commodity Strategy; iv) Annual African Forum; v) Continental Free Trade Area; vi) A Single African Airspace; vii) African Passport and Free Movement of People; viii) Continental Financial Institutions; ix) The Grand Inga Dam Project; x) The Pan African e-Network; xi) Silencing the Guns; xii) Outer Space.
0/1
CHAPTER 1-4
00:00
CHAPTER 5-ACRONYMS
CHAPTER 5: Critical Factors for Success, Potential Risks, Threats and Mitigation Strategies Chapter 5 identifies the critical factors for success, as well as the risks, threats and mitigation strategies for attaining the vision for 2063. • Critical success factors identified include: mobilizing African resources to finance and accelerate its transformation and integration; putting in place transformational leadership at all levels and in all fields; ensuring capable developmental states with the appropriate institutions, policies, human resources, systems and processes; changing attitudes and mind-sets to strengthen Pan African values of self-reliance, solidarity, hard work and collective prosperity and building on African successes, experiences and best practices; taking charge of Africa’s narrative and brand, to ensure that it reflects continental realities, aspirations and priorities and Africa’s position in the world; integrating Agenda 2063 into all national and regional development plans; strengthening and transforming national, regional and continental institutions and the manner of doing business, so as to effectively lead and drive the agenda for transformation and integration; and learning from the diverse, unique and shared experiences of various countries and regions as a basis of forging an African approach to transformation. • Risk factors identified include: conflict, instability and insecurity; social and economic inequalities; organized crime, drugs trade and illicit financial flows; poor management of diversities; religious extremism; failure to harness the demographic dividend; escalation of Africa’s disease burden; climate risks and natural disasters; and external shocks. • Mitigation strategies include: drawing on the resilience found in African societies and communities; economic diversification, climate resilience and disaster preparedness and prevention; and the priority that Agenda 2063 accords to well-educated citizens underpinned by skills revolution, science, technology and innovation. The Chapter also analyses mega and global trends likely to impact Africa’s growth and transformation such as: democratization, the rise and empowerment of the individual; climate change and the low carbon economy; natural resource depletion and demand shifts; demographics and urbanization; new technologies and innovation; changes in the global financial architecture; and global political and economic power shifts. CHAPTER 6: “Making It Happen” – Implementation, Monitoring, Evaluation, Financing, Capacities for Implimentation and Communication This chapter makes proposals on implementation; monitoring and evaluation; financing; partnerships; capacities for implementation; and communication and outreach: • Implementation arrangements and M&E is based on the need for the identification of all key stakeholders in the results chain from continental, regional and national levels. It also spells out the various roles and responsibilities in implementation and monitoring and evaluation. The First 10-Year Implementation Plan provides greater detail on these aspects. • Financing and domestic resource mobilization and intermediation strategy: detailed strategies for the financing of Agenda 2063 are presented and related to the attaining of each of the seven aspirations of Agenda 2063. In contrast to mobilizing external resources (through FDI, aid, trade, and debt relief), domestic resource mobilization (DRM) offers the advantages of greater domestic policy ownership and greater coherence with domestic needs, and higher development impact. For these reasons, Agenda 2063 requires Member States to place greater emphasis on domestic resources in the financing of Agenda 2063. It is anticipated that DRM has the potential to contribute, up to 70per cent to 80per cent, of the financing needs of the Agenda 2063. Agenda 2063 financing strategy is articulated around three dimensions: (i) domestic resource mobilization; (ii) intermediation of resource into investment and (ii) access to finance facilitation, including through project development fund, viability gap funding, capitalization fund, and bankability and investment- readiness support for projects, firms/SMEs, entrepreneurs and other parties. Agenda 2063 financing and DRM strategy involves different areas of policy and reform including: (a) public/fiscal revenue maximization; (b) enhanced savings mobilization; (c) curbing of illicit financial flows and fighting corruption; (d) regional bond market, regional stock exchange and African-owned private equity funds promotion; (e) Diaspora financial resources leveraging; (f) leveraging institutional financial resources of pension fund, sovereign wealth fund, insurance funds, governments’ foreign reserves and wealthy African citizen; and (g) promoting intra-African investment. A number of intermediation instruments and intervention areas are proposed: policy, knowledge and capacity building (enabling environment front); fund mobilization and intermediation (supply-side front); and access to finance facilitation (demand-side front). A more detailed elaboration can be found in “Agenda 2063 Financing and Domestic Resource Mobilization Strategy”. • Partnerships: the need to re-orient Africa’s partnerships in line with the continent’s ambitious agenda for economic, political, social transformation has been articulated based on the assessment of partnerships in place. • Capacities for implementation: building upon the NEPAD Capacity Development Strategic Framework (CDSF), this section looks at capacity needs at individual, organizational levels, and those related to the policy and enabling environment in line with Africa’s transformation agenda. • Communication and outreach: outlines the strategies and activities to galvanize and mobilize the continent’s population on a sustained basis to achieve Agenda 2063. LIST OF ACRONYMS 3ADI Africa Agro-Industry and Agro-Business Initiative AIDA Accelerated Industrial Development for Africa AfDB African Development Bank ACCNNR African Convention on Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources ACGF Africa Credit Guarantee Fund ACHR African Charter on Human Rights AGI African Governance Initiative AIB African Investment Bank AIDF Africa Infrastructure Development Facility AIF African Investment Fund AIMS Africa’s Integrated Maritime Strategy AMU Arab Maghreb Union AMV Africa Mining Vision APCI Africa Productive Capacity Initiative APRM Africa Peer Review Mechanism APSA African Peace and Security Architecture AQIM AL Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb ASACOF Africa-South America Cooperation Forum ASCI African Scientific and Innovation Council AU African Union AUC African Union Commission BDEAC Banque de Développement des Etats de l’Afrique Centrale BIAT Boosting Intra African Trade BRICS Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa CAADP Comprehensive African Agricultural Development Program CADF China-Africa Development Fund CAPST Consolidated Action Plan for Science and Technology CENSAD Community of Sahel Saharan States CFTA Continental Free Trade Area CDSF Capacity Development Strategic Framework (NEPAD) COMESA Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa CoSSE Committee of SADC Stock Exchanges CSI Corporate Social Investment CSO Civil Society Organization CSR Corporate Social Responsibility DAC Development Assistance Committee (of the OECD) DFI Development finance institution DREA Department of Rural Economy and Agriculture DRM Domestic Resource Mobilization DRC Democratic Republic of Congo EAC East African Community EBID ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development ECCAS Economic Community of Central African States ECOWAS Economic Community of West African States EIB: European Development Bank ERA Economic Report of Africa EU European Union FAO Food and Agriculture Organization FDI Foreign Direct Investment FfD: Financing for Development FOCAC Forum on China-Africa Cooperation GCC Gulf Cooperation Council GHA Greater Horn of Africa GDP Gross Domestic Product GNI Gross National Income GNP Gross National Product HDI: Human Development Index HIPC Highly Indebted Poor Country HLPASF High Level Panel on Alternative Sources of Funding HPS Health Plan and Strategy HSGOC NEPAD Heads of State and Government Orientation Committee IAIGC Inter Arab Investment Guarantee Corporation ICIEC Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit ICT Information Communication Technology IFF Illicit Financial Flows IGAD Intergovernmental Authority on Development IPPF NEPAD Infrastructure Project Preparation Facility IPSAS International Public Sector Accounting Standards ITF Infrastructure Trust Fund ITN Insecticide Treated Nets IEA International Energy Agency IFC International Finance Corporation IGAD Intergovernmental Authority on Development IMF International Monetary Fund IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change JAES Joint Africa-EU Strategy LAC Latin American Countries LPA Lagos Plan of Action LRA Lord’s Resistance Army M&E Monitoring and Evaluation MCC Millennium Challenge Corporation MDGs Millennium Development Goals MFI Microfinance Institution MIGA World Bank Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency MIN Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria, Turkey MIP Minimum Integration Program MN Multinational Corporation MoU Memorandum of Understanding MSME Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise NEPAD New Partnership for Africa’s Development NGOS Non-Governmental Organizations NPCA NEPAD Coordinating Agency OAU Organization of African Unity ODA Official Development Assistance OECD Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development PAF Pan African Fisheries Development PDF Project Development Fund PIDA Programme for Infrastructural Development in Africa PIPO Pan African Intellectual Property Organization PPP Public-Private Partnership PRC Permanent Representative Committee PSO Private Sector Organization PTA Bank Preferential Trade Area Bank RADS Resource-based African Development Strategy RECS Regional Economic Communities SACCO Savings and Credit Cooperative SACU Southern African Customs Union SADC Southern African Development Community SAP Structural Adjustment Program SMEs Small and Medium Scale Enterprises SPF Social Policy Framework SPS Sanitary and Phytosanitary System ST&I Science Technology and Innovation STAP Short Term Action Plan on Infrastructure STISA Science Technology and innovation Strategy for Africa TICAD Tokyo International Cooperation on Africa’s Development TVET Technical Vocational Education and Training UMA Union of Maghreb Arab UN United Nations UNCTAD United Nations Conference on Trade and Development UNDESA United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs UNCBD United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity UNCCD United Nations Convention on Combatting Desertification UNCED United Nations Conference on Environment and Development UNECA United Nations Economic Commission for Africa UNEP United Nations Environmental Program UNFCCC United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change UNFPA United Nations Fund for Population Activities UNIDO United Nations Industrial Development Organization US United States USD United States Dollars VGF Viability Gap Funding WHO World Health Organization WB World Bank WBG World Bank Group
0/1
CHAPTER 5-ACRONYMS
00:00
CHAPTER 1 (PROPER)
1.1 Background Fifty years after the first thirty-three (33) independent African states gathered in Addis Ababa to form the Organization of African Union, now the African Union, the continent is looking ahead towards the next fifty years. Thus, on the occasion of the Golden Jubilee of the OAU, Africa’s political leadership acknowledged past achievements and challenges and rededicated itself to the Pan African vision of “an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the international arena.” The Summit tasked the African Union Commission (AUC), supported by the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) Planning and Coordinating Agency (NPCA), the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), to prepare a continental 50-year agenda through a people-driven process – hence Agenda 2063. The 50th Anniversary Solemn Declaration incorporates a pledge to make progress in eight priority areas (see text box). These priorities define the continental agenda, which will be integrated into regional and national development plans. Agenda 2063, the continent’s shared strategic framework for inclusive growth and sustainable development, takes account of past achievements, challenges and opportunities at the national, continental and global levels to provide the basis and context in which the continent’s transformation is being designed and implemented, including: • The durability of the Pan African vision and project, which guided struggles of African people and their descendants against slavery, and the disruptiveness of colonialism, apartheid and racial discrimination; and the commitment of the founders of the OAU to self- determination, integration, solidarity and unity. This today forms the backdrop for Africa’s renaissance, transformation and integration. • Lessons from global developmental experiences, such as: the significant advances by major countries of the Global South to lift huge segments of their populations out of poverty, improve incomes and catalyse economic and social transformation, and the global drive through the United Nations to find multi-lateral approaches to humanity’s most pressing concerns including human security and peace; the eradication of poverty, hunger and disease; and reduction in vulnerability to climate change risks. • An African turning point, with the end of the Cold War and the destruction of apartheid in Namibia and South Africa, reigniting Africa’s determination to end wars and conflicts, to build shared prosperity, to integrate, to build responsive and pluralist democratic governance and to end the continent’s marginalization and return to Africa’s priorities through the adoption of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development and the transformation of the OAU into the African Union. Thus over the last decade Africa has experienced sustained levels of growth, much greater peace and stability and positive movements on several human development indicators. Africa must sustain and consolidate this positive turnaround, using it as a springboard to ensure its transformation and renaissance. • The continuities and changes in the African development paradigm and dynamics, reflected in post-independence state - and nation-building, industrialization and modernization efforts, the fight against disease, and poverty; the focus on deepening Africa’s appreciation of its many, diverse assets and the push for integration, as captured in the OAU Charter, the Monrovia Declaration, the Lagos Plan of Action and NEPAD; the sectoral policy frameworks, strategies and architectures including agriculture, peace and security, infrastructure, science and technology, governance, industrialization, education, social policy, culture, sports and health and in normative frameworks around human and people’s, children’s and women’s rights. • The need for people-centred development and gender equality, which places the African People at the centre of all continental efforts, to ensure broad-based participation in the transformation of the continent, and the building of caring and inclusive societies and communities. It recognizes that empowering and removing all obstacles to women’s full participation in all areas and levels of human endeavour, is pivotal for any society reaching its full potential. Further, an enabling environment for its children and young people to flourish and reach their full potential is a pre-requisite to sustained innovation. • The ebbs and flows of the global context, and in our times the modern information technology revolution of real time communication across vast distances, globalization and changes in production, changes and advances in technology, production, trade expansion, development of new knowledge and labour markets; the opportunities presented by global demographic trends and the increasing global middle and working classes in emerging and developing countries and regions; the move towards multi-polarity with strong elements of uni-polarism remaining, global security alliances and the undisputable evidence of the impact of climate change. Humanity today has the capacities, technology and know-how to ensure human security and a decent standard of living for all inhabitants of our earth, yet children continue to die of preventable diseases, while hunger and malnutrition remain part of the human experience, and inequality between regions and countries and within countries persist. Over the last fifty years, African states have developed a number of responses to the exigencies of the times. Two major transitions stand out in this regard: The first transition came in the 1960s and 1970s - a decade after the majority of African countries gained independence. To continue advancing the agenda for economic emancipation and drawing lessons from the global energy crisis of the 1970s, Africa took the strategic decision to pursue continental integration as a strategy for economic development. The various liberation and economic development strategies of the seventies and eighties including the Lagos Plan of Action have their genesis in that transition. This period was also marked by the Bretton Woods agenda on Structural Adjustments, which saw the contraction of African economies with far reaching consequences on critical social sectors. The second transition occurred in the decade of the 1990s after the end of cold war and the adoption by the OAU of the Declaration of the Fundamental Changes in the World and Africa’s Response. The Declaration encapsulated Africa’s determination to tackle the peace and security challenges of the continent, including those within nations, to foster democracy and good governance as well as economic development through deepening integration of the continent. After two dead decades of development (80’s and 90’s) in Africa and the potential for increased marginalization, the continent turned the corner, with a better organized African Union and Regional Economic Communities (RECs). Since then the continent has witnessed impressive and sustained growth, the consolidation of democracy and good governance such as the introduction of the African Peer Review Mechanism, and improved gender equality, and through the promotion of human rights and the rule of law. As Africa celebrates half-century of independence, it is opportune to embark on a critical process of stock taking and mapping out a new long-term vision for the continent. “Agenda 2063: The Future We Want for Africa” is, therefore, an endogenous, shared strategic framework for inclusive growth and sustainable development for Africa’s transformation, and a continuation of the Pan African drive, for self-determination, freedom, progress and collective prosperity, in order to: • Galvanize and unite in action all Africans and the Diaspora around the common vision of a peaceful, integrated and prosperous Africa, driven by its citizens and taking its rightful place in the world; • Harness Africa’s continental endowments embodied in its people, history, cultures and natural resources, and geo-political position to effect equitable and people-centred growth and development; eradicate poverty; develop Africa’s human capital; build social assets, infrastructure and public goods; consolidate enduring peace and security; put in place effective and strong developmental states, participatory and accountable institutions; and empower women and youth to bring about the African renaissance; • Build on and accelerate the implementation of continental frameworks including, most notably, the Lagos Plan of Action, Abuja Treaty, NEPAD, the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme–CAADP, the 2014 Malabo Declaration on Accelerated Agricultural Growth and Transformation for Shared Prosperity and Improved Livelihoods (3AGTs), the Plan of Action for Accelerated Industrial Development in Africa (AIDA), the Minimum Integration Programme, the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA), the AU/NEPAD Science and Technology Consolidated Plan of Action, and Africa’s Agro-industry and Agribusiness Development Initiative (3ADI) ; • Provide internal coherence, alignment and coordination to continental, regional and national frameworks and plans adopted by the AU, RECs and Members states; • Offer policy space/platform for individual, sectoral and collective actions to realize the continental vision; • Develop an implementation mechanism that is underpinned by a strong knowledge management system which enhances the quality of delivery through cutting edge research, innovation and codification of ground breaking experiences, promote sharing of experiences and learning from each other, and establish communities of practices; and • Delineate the respective roles and responsibilities of each stakeholder such as RECs, Member States, Civil Society and private sector in the formulation and implementation of Agenda 2063. This new effort to envision Africa’s long-term development trajectory is timely for several reasons. Globalization and the information technology revolution have provided unprecedented opportunities for countries and regions, including Africa, with the right policies to make significant advances and lift huge sections of populations out of poverty improve incomes and catalyse economic and social transformations. Africa is also now in a better position to build on the past and present successes such as the NEPAD experience. National, regional and continental efforts made to implement NEPAD, unseen during the LPA and the Abuja Treaty, have enabled AU to build institutions (e.g., APRM, etc.), demonstrate strong commitment to implement agreed agenda, generate valuable lessons that present a strong foundation for Agenda 2063, and which can be considered a logical continuation of NEPAD and other initiatives. The continent is more united, a global power to reckon with, capable of rallying support around a common agenda and speaking with one voice with capacity to negotiate and withstand the influence of forces that would like to see it divided. Furthermore, Africa’s regional institutions have been rationalized and the eight officially AU recognized Regional Economic Communities (CEN- SAD, COMESA, EAC, ECCAS, ECOWAS, IGAD, SADC and UMA) are today stronger development and political institutions that citizens’ can count on and Agenda 2063 can stand on. Finally, a confluence of factors presents a great opportunity for consolidation and rapid progress of the continent. These include: significant positive and sustained growth trajectory of many African countries; notable reduction in violent conflict, increased peace and stability, coupled with advances in democratic governance; prospects for a rising middle class, coupled with the youth bulge, which can act as catalyst for further growth, particularly in the consumer sectors and services; and the change in the international finance architecture, with the rise of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and improved flows of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). The above-mentioned factors constitute a unique opportunity for Africa to capitalize upon. However, success depends upon acting in unity, transparency, willingness and capability to assess performance and correct mistakes and build on successes, placing citizens’ first, and sound governance and values. Long - term planning as per Agenda 2063 is not new. A number of African countries have developed long term plans and national visions (e.g., Uganda (2040), South Africa and Egypt (2050), Sierra Leone, Senegal and Cameroon (2035); while Malawi, Nigeria, Rwanda, Lesotho, Cote D’Ivoire are preparing to replace their respective visions that end in 2020, which would take them to beyond 2050. Agenda 2063 fits within this tradition and seeks to build upon and consolidate these efforts. 1.2 Agenda 2063 Preparatory Process Agenda 2063 was developed through an extensive consultative process of various African stakeholders, including Youth, Women, Civil Society Organizations’, the Diaspora, African Think Tanks and Research Institutions, Government Planners, Private Sector, the Media, inter-faith leaders, the Forum for Former African Heads of State and Government, African Island States and others2. In addition, ideas captured from continent wide sector ministerial meetings and meetings with the Regional Economic Communities are included. Outcomes of these consultations form the basis for Aspirations of the African People, the driver of Agenda 2063. Preparation of agenda 2063 also included an extensive review of the African development experience, analysis of challenges and opportunities of today as well as a review of national plans, regional and continental frameworks and technical studies. The plans and frameworks provided insights for the development priorities that form a plank for Agenda 2063, in particular in the First 10 Year Implementation Plan. Furthermore, a Resource Mobilization Strategy for Agenda 2063 has been developed looking at strategies for Africa to finance her own development. Lastly, a specific Agenda 2063 Communication Strategy has been designed and it is being implemented with the goal of engaging Africans from all works of life, and the Diaspora to galvanize action in support of Agenda 2063. 2 Written contributions/Inputs were also received from diverse stakeholders such as African governance forum, Association of Public Administration, African Trade Unions, RUFORUM, Wildlife Foundation, Cultural Heritage Foundation, African Airlines Association and many others Agenda 2063 is presented in three key documents listed below: • Agenda 2063 Framework Document that contains the vision for 2063, a comprehensive situational analysis of key issues, the goals, priorities, targets and indicative strategies, as well as proposals on “Making it happen” dealing with implementation, monitoring and evaluation; • Agenda 2063 Popular Version presenting the Agenda in simple terms to facilitate ownership by the African citizenry; and • First 10-year Implementation Plan (2013-2023) which lays out the immediate priorities and is designed to kick-start the journey towards 2063. 1.3 Overview of Agenda 2063 Framework Document The Framework document is organized in three parts and presented in six chapters as follows: (i) The Vision (context, challenges and opportunities for achieving it) - Chapters 1-3; (ii) The Transformation Framework outlining the goals, priority areas, targets and indicative strategies (Chapter 4) as well as the critical success factors - Chapter 5; and (iii) “Making it Happen”: implementation, monitoring, evaluation and associated accompanying measures – Chapter 6. The Vision for 2063 Chapter 1: Introduction Situates Agenda 2063 in the historical context of Pan Africanism, African Renaissance and the struggle for self- determination and economic independence; outlines the preparatory process; and presents the Agenda 2063 document. Chapter 2: The Vision and African Aspirations for 2063 Paints a detailed picture of where Africa would be in 2063 when the continent will be celebrating the centenary of the founding of the OAU. Chapter 3: Comprehensive Situational Analysis Examines the trends, challenges and opportunities in the political, economic, social, cultural fields and highlights key issues to address. The Transformation Framework Chapter 4: Agenda 2063 Goals, Priority Areas, Targets and Indicative Strategies Outlines Agenda 2063 goals, priority areas, targets and indicative strategies. Chapter 5: Critical Success Factors Risks and Mitigation measures Presents critical success factors, risks and mitigating strategies, as well as global megatrends likely to impact Africa’s future. Making it Happen Chapter 6: Making it Happen Presents implementation, monitoring and evaluation arrangements, financing, communication strategy and capacity for implementation. Annexes Annexes Annex 1; Highlights African initiatives for economic growth and transformation in the 1980s and 1990s Annex 2 Synthesizes the main areas of concern Agenda 2063 should address based on the comprehensive situational analysis in Chapter 3. Annexes 3 and 4 present the national and regional/continental results matrices, respectively
0/1
CHAPTER ONE (PROPER)
00:00
THE VISIONS AND AFRICA ASPIRATION
0/1
Draft Lesson
00:00
CHAPTER 3: AFRICA THE LAST FIFTY YEARS AND THE PRESENT: PROGRESS, CHALLENGES AND IMPLICATIONS FOR AGENDA 2063
0/1
CHAPTER 3: AFRICA THE LAST FIFTY YEARS AND THE PRESENT: PROGRESS, CHALLENGES AND IMPLICATIONS FOR AGENDA 2063
00:00
CHAPTER 4: AGENDA 2063: GOALS, PRIORITY AREAS, TARGETS AND INDICATIVE STRATEGIES
0/1
CHAPTER 4: AGENDA 2063: GOALS, PRIORITY AREAS, TARGETS AND INDICATIVE STRATEGIES
00:00
CHAPTER 5: CRITICAL FACTORS FOR SUCCESS, POTENTIAL RISKS AND MITIGATION STRATEGIES
0/1
CHAPTER 5: CRITICAL FACTORS FOR SUCCESS, POTENTIAL RISKS AND MITIGATION STRATEGIES
00:00
CHAPTER 6: “MAKING IT HAPPEN” – IMPLEMENTATION, MONITORING, EVALUATION, FINANCING, COMMUNICATION & CAPACITIES FOR IMPLEMENTATION
0/1
CHAPTER 6: “MAKING IT HAPPEN” – IMPLEMENTATION, MONITORING, EVALUATION, FINANCING, COMMUNICATION & CAPACITIES FOR IMPLEMENTATION
00:00
Aspiration 7: An Africa as a strong and influential global player and partner
0/1
Aspiration 7: An Africa as a strong and influential global player and partner
00:00
QUIZ
This quiz is meant to test your aptitude to ascertain your proficiency in the workings of Agenda 2063
0/1
AFRICAN UNION AGENDA 2063 PROFICIENCY QUESTIONS
AGENDA 2063 FRAME WORK
About Lesson

2.1         AFRICAN ASPIRATIONS FOR 2063

 

Africans of diverse social formations3 and in the Diaspora affirmed the AU Vision of “an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the international arena” as the overarching guide for the future of the African continent. Further, they reaffirmed the relevance and validity of the OAU/AU 50th Anniversary Solemn Declaration.

 

The converging voices of Africans of different backgrounds, including those in the Diaspora have painted a clear picture of what they desire for themselves and the continent in the future. From these converging voices, a common and a shared set of aspirations has emerged:

 

  1. A prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development;

 

  1. An integrated continent, politically united, based on the ideals of Pan Africanism and the vision of Africa’s Renaissance;

 

  1. An Africa of good governance, respect for human rights, justice and the rule of law;

 

  1. A peaceful and secure Africa;

 

  1. An Africa with a strong cultural identity, common heritage, values and ethics;

 

  1. An Africa whose development is people-driven, relying on the potential of African people, especially its women and youth, and caring for children; and

 

  1. Africa as a strong, united, resilient and influential global player and

 

These seven aspirations show strong convergence with the AU Vision, and are in line with the eight priorities of the OAU/AU 50th Anniversary Solemn Declaration. Collectively these shared aspirations demonstrate strong continuity of thinking between the OAU founders and the present generation of Africans, albeit in a new dynamic context.

 

The aspirations reflect the desire of Africans for prosperity and well-being, for unity and integration, for a continent of free citizens and expanded horizons, with freedom from conflict and improved human security. They also project an Africa of strong identity, culture and values, as well as a strong and influential partner on the global stage making equal, respected contribution to human progress and welfare – in short a different, better and dynamic Africa than in 2013.

 

There are transitions to the aspirations and each milestone is a step towards attainment of Africa by 2063. These transition points, exciting milestones in themselves, appear in the Agenda 2063 Results Framework (Annex 3 and 4).

 

 

 

 

 
   

 

3 Different consultations were made with the following stakeholders: Academicians and Think Tanks, Civil Society, Planning Experts from Ministries of Planning, Women, Youth, Media, Private sector, inter-faith groups, Forum of Former Heads of States and Government, African Island States, RECs representatives, Sector Ministries and others

 

The aspirations embed a strong desire to see a continent where women and the youth have guarantees of fundamental freedoms to contribute and benefit from a different, better and dynamic Africa by 2063, and where women and youth assume leading roles in growth and transformation of African societies. They are based on the conviction that Africa has the potential and capability to converge and surpass other regions of the world and take her rightful place in the world community.

Aspiration # 1: A prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development

Africa will by 2063 be a continent of shared prosperity, which finances and manages its own growth and transformation – meaning that:

  • African people will have a high standard of living and quality of life and well-being;

 

  • Well educated citizens and skills revolution underpinned by science, technology and innovation for a knowledge society will be broad-based, and where no child misses school due to poverty or any form of discrimination;
  • Citizens are healthy, well-nourished and have long life spans;

 

  • Cities, peri-urban and rural communities are equipped with modern communication, sanitation, education and health facilities and are vibrant, dynamic market economies, people have access to affordable and decent housing including, housing finance together with all the basic necessities of life, and social capital is valued and preserved;
  • Economies are structurally transformed to create shared growth through entrepreneurship and decent jobs for all;
  • Modern agriculture for scaled-up production, improved productivity and value addition through commodity transformation and services, contribute to farmer and national prosperity and food and nutrition security; and
  • The continent embeds principally adaptation processes to maintain healthy ecosystems, preserve the African natural environment – as the largest remaining reserve of pristine waters, old growth forests and land in the

By 2063, African countries will be amongst the best performers in quality of life indicators. Africa’s collective GDP will be proportionate to its share of the world’s population and natural resource endowments, with economies that are transformed through science, technology, innovation, entrepreneurship and competitiveness.

High standard of living, quality of life and well-being

A high standard of living for all Africans will be reflected in increased per capita income to a level that is at least 10 times the value of the 2013 level (USD 18784) to USD 18,878 – 20,000. There will be a marked reduction in the number of people holding vulnerable jobs, and increased employment opportunities for all, especially the young. The growth in decent jobs for all working age adults will be the key driver of broad-based increases in incomes and improved livelihoods, social stability and cohesion. Ending all forms of poverty will be the highest priority of African governments in the next decades.

 

 

 

 
   

 

4 AfDB, AU and UNECA, African Statistical Year Book 2013

 

The African continent will graduate from being characterized by predominantly low income market-based, country economies to higher-end middle income to high-income dynamic, market- based groups of countries. Improved incomes and jobs creation, especially through formal private sector growth will translate into the elimination of poverty. This will be coupled with reduction in income disparities between rural and urban areas, men and women, leading to more inclusive and cohesive societies.

The Africa of 2063 will be a continent without any form of food or nutrition insecurity and hunger by 2025. Measures will be adopted that lead to food sovereignty by supporting women’s capacity to produce safe, nutritious and culturally acceptable foods, promoting research in local seeds systems and farming methods, protection of indigenous seeds and knowledge technologies, establishment of local seed banks and ensuring access to natural resources by women farmers, fishers and pastoralists.

By 2025, stunting will be reduced to 10per cent of the youth population and underweight prevalence shall not exceed 5per cent among children. Neither stunting nor underweight children will exist by 2063. The vision of a prosperous, food and nutrition secure and, therefore poverty-free Africa will be fully realized.

To guarantee the high standard of living as a right, Africa of 2063 will be characterized by all its citizens being entitled to affordable social security by law and where social protection is extended to physically and mentally disabled citizens, elderly and children. Africans will be free from fear and want, and all public facilities and services will be accessible to all persons, including those with physical disabilities. The Africa of 2063 will be a compassionate and caring society.

Well-educated citizens and skills revolution underpinned by science, technology and innovation

Africa by 2063 will be the world’s most populous continent with the largest population segment being the youth, of which 70per cent or more will be highly skilled. The continent will have the largest concentration of middle class citizens as a percentage of the population with a significant spending power.

A key driver of Africa’s prosperity will be its world class human capital developed through quality education focused on achieving 100 per cent literacy and numeracy, and clear emphasis on science, technology and engineering. Universal access to quality, accredited education at all levels will be enshrined in law. To ensure a vibrant citizenry, Africa will invest to make health services readily accessible to the rapidly increasing population and cater for needs of both the young and its growing elderly population. Anticipated decline in fertility rates and dependency ratios in Africa, along with the expected emergence of a middle-class, will translate to a demographic transition, allowing for higher per capita investments in human capital development and continued increases in incomes.

From early childhood education to primary, secondary, technical, vocational and higher education, Africa will witness a true renaissance, through investments made by governments and the private sector in education and through growth and expansion of industries in the fields of technology, science, research and innovation. In the Africa of 2063, at least 70per cent of all high school graduates will go on to have tertiary education at technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions, and Universities with 70per cent of them graduating in the sciences, technology and innovation programmes, to lay the foundation for competitive economies built upon human capital to complement the African continent’s rich endowments in natural resources.

Africa of 2063 will have harmonized education and professional qualifications systems, with the Pan African University and several centres of excellence across the continent, a Pan African Virtual university that uses technology to provide mass post-secondary school education and indeed

 

the university sector and intelligentsia playing an instrumental role. Millions of Africans will have been trained, educated and skilled with special emphasis on science, technology, research and innovation, as well as vocational training in every sector. Unlike in the past this human capital would choose to remain on the continent, rather than migrating, thus contributing to the continent’s socio-economic development. By 2063, the mass out-migration of talented, educated, innovative Africans that characterized the brain-drain of earlier years will change to a situation where Africa is the centre of convergence of the world’s best and brightest; akin to the role and status, in ancient times, of the famed city of Timbuktu in the empire of Mali.

Healthy and well-nourished citizens

By 2063, every citizen will have full access to affordable and quality health care services, universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights information, and these services will be available to all women, including young women, adolescents, women with disability, those living with AIDS and all vulnerable groups.

Africa will be rid of all the neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), and all communicable and infectious diseases, such as Ebola, will be fully brought under control. Robust, integrated systems will be in place to significantly reduce non-communicable and lifestyle changes related diseases, including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and deaths from HIV/AIDS, Malaria and Tuberculosis will be reduced to zero. Integrated and comprehensive health services and infrastructure will be in place, where services are available, accessible, affordable, acceptable and of quality.

The African population of 2063 will be healthy, well nourished, and enjoying a life expectancy of above 75 years.

Modern, affordable and liveable habitats

African cities by 2063 will be well planned with modern mass transit systems, while rural communities will be connected to the rest of the economy through road, energy, mobile communication networks, water, sanitation and hygiene systems. Over 60 per cent of the African population would be living in cities/urban areas, which in turn will generate the lion’s share of the continent’s GDP and its economic activities.

The Africa of 2063 while being characterized predominantly by urban communities, will have healthy, vibrant, prosperous and liveable rural communities that will come from broad-based breakthroughs in agricultural productivity, investments in education, building of local institutions, infrastructure which allow rural populations to be key drivers of agri-based and resource-based value-chains that generate high income levels. Rural dwellers will enjoy similar social services and infrastructure as in urban areas.

The Africa of 2063 will be one where every citizen has affordable and sustainable access to quality basic services such as decent affordable housing, access to adequate and clean water and sanitation, transport and other services. Access to high-speed broadband Internet connectivity will no longer be a luxury a few can afford but will be a right for all citizens.

Transformed economies

Africa of 2063 will be an integrated continent of consistent wealth creation, inclusivity and a pole of tolerance and leading to a pole of global growth and transformation.

In order to become a global growth pole, the continent will sustain and improve upon Africa’s recent above world average economic growth momentum for the coming decades, while at the same time vigorously addressing the challenges of structural transformation of output and trade, and weak infrastructure connectivity, and weak human resource base, to emerge significantly strengthened and modernized through investments in science and technology capability.

 

Africa will by 2063 be a continent, which will have benefitted from macroeconomic stability, diversified, accelerated and inclusive economic growth. There will be annual GDP growth rates of not less than 7per cent, investment and savings of 25per cent and above and macroeconomic policies that promote growth, distribution, employment creation, investments and industrialization. Africa’s domestic private sector will have grown to claim over 50per cent of the GDP.

Accelerated manufacturing activities will result in the 2063 share of manufacturing in GDP rising to at least 50per cent and its value added would rise to five-fold. The sector will absorb at least 50per cent of new entrants to the labour market. At least 90per cent of all agricultural exports will be processed locally (value addition). By 2063, the share of technology-driven manufacturing firms in total manufacturing output will rise above 50per cent. Africa will effectively participate in global value chains, not at the low but at the high end of the chain.

As a continent, Africa’s collective GDP by 2063 will be proportionate to the continent’s population and resource endowments with concomitant increases in Africa’s share of global manufacturing output, global financial services as well as its share of knowledge-driven products and services. The continent will witness the growth of commodity futures exchanges and continental commercial giants will be flourishing with a mix of intra-African trade and off-continent export businesses. This will be coupled with the growth of regional manufacturing hubs, around the beneficiation of Africa’s minerals and natural resources in all corners of the continent. A number of African majority-owned companies would feature significantly among the top 500 global companies. The return of the diaspora, with its infusion of talent, energy and finances into African economies, will play a critical role in the transformation process across Africa.

Africa will continue to be dominant in the global markets on natural resources, including agriculture and the extractives – oil, gas, minerals – but will capture a greater share of the returns from its natural resources and ensure their equitable redistribution to Africa’s rapidly expanding population, especially in the initial decades. By 2063 there will be expanded control and ownership of the extractive industries as demonstrated through the establishment of commodity exchanges for all major commodities, and the increased share of firms under African – majority ownership and control, as well as increased control of mining operations as envisaged under the Africa Mining Vision.

African economies by 2063 will be structurally transformed to ensure equitable growth, fair distribution of opportunities and decent employment, labour standards and safe working conditions for all, including enhanced women’s productivity, access to basic services and commodities and income distribution. Diversified economies with increased resilience will be achieved through systematic approaches to managing risks from external shocks. This will come through increased reliance on new products generated through innovation, knowledge, science and entrepreneurship, and growth of sectors such as tourism, the blue economy, creative arts and financial services. Natural resources (renewable and non-renewable) will be sustainably managed to avoid increased volatility – the phenomenon of “boom and bust”. Intergenerational Sovereign Wealth Funds will be in place to safeguard returns on investments from exploiting and managing Africa’s resources for future generations.

Economic development driven by science and technology will result in 25 per cent of businesses emanating from technological breakthroughs and innovations generated and commercialized by African citizens. This will be reflected by: an increased number of world class regional/continental research centres established on the continent which provide critical research outputs that are priorities for Africa, leading to the transformation of agriculture, manufacturing, industry and natural resource exploitation; establishment of regional and continental research centres of technology, innovation and competitiveness that generate ideas for novel businesses; and regional/continental poles for industrialization that are defined by 2020 and fully functional by 2025.

 

Modern agriculture for increased production, productivity and value addition

Africa in 2063 will be greatly enhanced by the creation of a broad-based foundation in agriculture mechanized farming, access to production inputs, financing, enhanced role of women farmers leading to enhanced agricultural productivity, making local food production competitive enough to replace food imports and generate surpluses for export and position Africa to feed the rest of the world. This in turn will increase wages in labour abundant states, and capital deepening in states with insufficient labour. The agricultural transformation will also have resulted in increased commercialization of agriculture and reduction in labour employed in agriculture. The significant value addition in agriculture will drive manufacturing and the structural transformation of African economies.

A modern and productive agriculture anchored in a solid science knowledge foundation, building of resilient food and agricultural systems and self-financing of agricultural development will be in place by 2063. This will lead to improved productivity. The 2063 rural landscape of medium and large-scale farms, owned and operated by African men and women, reflects a natural transition from the small plot, mixed farming characteristics of Africa’s rural areas in 2013. Additionally, investments will result in consistent supply of agricultural commodities, attract financial capital to agri-based value chains, which will create employment opportunities. Modernizing agriculture will put an end to human drudgery in agriculture; African agriculture of the future will see the banishment of the hand hoe, and finally render the sector modern, profitable and attractive to the continent’s women and youth.

Africa, while taking advantage of its untapped arable land, will be a major player in the global agro-food economy. African agriculture will be a competitive food and agriculture system which meets the fast-growing and diversifying agro-food demands of intra-African, local, national, regional markets and, beyond, responding increasingly to the demands of a growing and exigent global market. By 2025, intra-African trade in food and agriculture will have increased three-fold to account for at least 50per cent of the continent’s total formal food trade. This growth would be made possible through broader and deeper continental market integration and facilitated by the establishment of adequate market and trade infrastructure – including roads, railways and transport services; ICT; irrigation, and storage and agro-processing facilities; commodity exchanges, market information and other structured trade facilitation services. This will connect farmers to local, national and regional markets through a dynamic network of efficient value chains of strategic food and agricultural commodities.

Africa’s blue/ ocean economy

Of particular significance are the results from focusing on the contribution of opportunities related to the “blue/ ocean economy” which is expected to gain momentum in 2020. This will lead among other initiatives, to advanced knowledge on marine and aquatic biotechnology to produce new products; and to the establishment of Africa-wide shipping, with African lakes and rivers serving as fully developed waterways and navigable links to landlocked states, thus integrating their markets with the rest of the continent and the world. African fisheries companies will exploit these resources sustainably for the benefit of Africans and market-led aquaculture (fish farming) will close the supply gap in fish. Africa’s seas, oceans, lakes, rivers and floodplains will be yielding valuable minerals mined sustainably from deep seas and ocean and lake beds, and will be free of piracy, illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing (IUU fishing) and other criminal activities, including illegal dumping of wastes.

Environmentally sustainable and climate resilient economies and communities

Africa in 2063 will be recognized globally as a continent respectful of its environment, ecologically conscious based on sustainable development and renewable energy. The aspired prosperity of

 

Africa will be based on inclusive growth and sustainable development to enable Africa reclaim its natural heritage, build prosperous societies, and reduce vulnerability to climate change. While Africa has played a relatively minor role and contributed little to the accumulation of greenhouse gases and the attendant climate change, it is the most vulnerable region to climate change risks.

Africa by 2063 will have been transformed such that natural resources will be sustainably managed and the integrity and diversity of Africa’s ecosystems conserved. Wildlife crimes including poaching, trafficking and illegal trade will be eliminated before 2025 through effective legislation and management systems in member states.

African societies will consume and produce goods and services in a sustainable manner. National income accounts will be reformed to fully reflect changes in renewable and non-renewable natural resources wealth.

By 2063, Africa’s biodiversity, including its forests, wild life, wetlands (lakes and rivers), genetic resources, as well as aquatic life, most notably fish stocks and coastal and marine ecosystems, including trans-boundary natural resources will be fully conserved and used sustainably. Forest and vegetation cover would be restored to 1963 levels; while national parks and protected areas (both terrestrial and marine) will be well managed and threats to them significantly reduced.

Land degradation and desertification would have been stopped and then reversed. All agricultural land will be managed in a manner that is environmentally and socially sustainable. African countries would have reduced loss of biodiversity by at least 90per cent; and natural habitats conserved.

Africa will be a fully water secure continent by 2030. New practices and technologies will be in place to ensure efficient use of water resources and development of new sources. About 90per cent of domestic waste – water will be recycled to supplement water for agricultural and industrial use.

By 2063, climate resilient low carbon production systems will be in place, thus significantly minimizing vulnerability to climate risk and related natural disasters. This will, among others, lead to reductions in per capita deaths from climate change induced natural disasters by at least 75per cent through comprehensive and robust disaster risk reduction and preparedness strategies put in place earlier. All agricultural and industrial activities will be climate smart and sustainability certified. An African climate fund (ACF) to address the continent’s climate adaptation concerns, including technology development will be fully operational and regional/continental sustainability certification schemes will be established.

Africa will realize its full potential in energy production, and in fact in the foreseeable future will provide energy to other regions on demand. The African strategic vision in this regard will involve the utilization of the continent’s energy sources, especially renewable energy in fostering economic growth and eradicating energy poverty. Renewable energy (wind, solar, hydro, bioenergy, ocean tidal waves, geothermal and other renewables) will claim more than half of the energy consumption for households, businesses and organizations. All urban buildings will be certified, as energy smart and all urban mass transport will operate on renewable and low to zero emissions fuels. The share of renewable energy to total energy production will have exceeded the 50per cent threshold. Regional power pools will be in place a few decades earlier, while continental power pools (e.g. Inga Dam) will be fully functional before 2063 thus making the continent well lit and fully powered.

Functioning institutions, regulations, systems and processes will be in place to govern the management and exploitation of trans-boundary natural resources, including water, forests, fisheries, biodiversity, genetic resources, energy and renewable and non-renewable resources.

 

Aspiration # 2: An integrated continent, politically united based on the ideals of Pan Africanism and the vision of Africa’s Renaissance

By 2063 Africa will have emerged as a sovereign, independent and self-reliant continent – a united and strong Africa that realizes full economic and political integration.

Africa will witness the rekindling of solidarity and unity of purpose that underpinned the struggle for emancipation from slavery, colonialism, apartheid and economic subjugation. By 2020 all remnants of colonialism will have ended and all African territories under occupation fully liberated. We shall take measures to expeditiously end the unlawful occupation of the Chagos Archipelago, the Comorian Island of Mayotte and affirm the right to self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. All kinds of oppression including gender, racial and other forms of discrimination will be ended.

Africa will by 2063 be:

 

  • A United Africa; and

 

  • Having world-class infrastructure that criss-crosses the

 

A United Africa (federal or confederate)

Since 1963, the quest for the unity of Africa has been inspired by the Pan African spirit focusing particularly on liberation, political and economic independence and development based on self- reliance of African people with democratic governance playing a fundamental role to facilitate continental unity. These are a condition sine qua non for Africa’s renaissance and emergence on the world stage.

Africa by 2063 will have realized the fulfilment of the founders’ dream or vision of a United Africa, a union of well-governed and democratic continent. The political unity of Africa will be the culmination of the integration process, including the free movement of people, the establishment of continental institutions, and full economic integration.

By 2030, there will be consensus on the form of the continental unity and its underlying institutions. By 2045, all legal measures required for the formation of a United Africa will be in place with all its institutions (executive, legislative and Judicial). Regional, state and local governance structures will be appropriately reformed.

There will be an African citizenship and passport, and the Union anthem and flag will be widely observed. There will also be direct election of Members of Parliament to the Union legislative body and the President of the Union will be elected by universal suffrage.

As part of the political evolution to a United Africa, key economic institutions and frameworks, inter alia, the African Common Market (2025), Africa Monetary Union (2030), Africa Customs Union (2019) and Continental Free Trade Area (2017) will have been established as anchors of the governance structure of a United Africa.

Africa will witness the re-kindling of African solidarity and unity of purpose of the founders that underpinned the struggle for emancipation from colonialism, apartheid and economic subjugation.

World-class infrastructure criss-crosses Africa.

By 2063 the necessary diverse infrastructure (quality and size) will be in place to support Africa’s accelerated growth, technological transformation, trade and development, including: high-speed railway networks, roads, shipping lines, sea and air transport, expanded investment in ICT, and digital economy. There will be a continental High Speed Train Network connecting all the major cities/capitals of the continent, as well as through other means connecting African Island States

 

to the mainland continent. The freeway will have adjacent highways and contain pipelines for gas, oil, water, as well as ICT Broad Band cables. This will be a catalyst for manufacturing, skills development, technology development, research and innovation.

Africa will witness full liberalization of air transport and full implementation of the Yamoussoukro decision through ratification and adoption of all related treaties and protocols, making the African aviation industry a positive force for regional integration, job creation and economic transformation.

Investment in these world-class, well managed infrastructure networks will be key to catalysing the mushrooming of intra-African trade from less than 12per cent in 2013 to approaching 50per cent of Africa’s trade portfolio by 2045. In turn, this will spur the growth of Pan African companies in mining, manufacturing, finance, food and beverages, hospitality and tourism, pharmaceuticals, fashion design, fisheries and ICT, and diverse industry operations supporting companies generating world leaders in their sectors.

Africa will be a continent with increased factor mobility (labour, capital and skills), free movement of people and enhanced trade, and continental institutions such as the African Central Bank, will be fully functional.

Intra-African trade will flourish and the Continental Free Trade Area (CFTA), the African Monetary Union and related financial instruments will be established and made fully operational.

The political union brought to reality well before 2063 coupled with improved connectivity and inter-linkage of technology, finance and markets, free movement of people, goods and services will be instrumental in establishing the strong economic base to spur intra-African trade to unprecedented levels and strengthen Africa’s place in global trade.

Aspiration # 3: An Africa of good governance, democracy, respect for human rights, justice and the rule of law

By 2063, Africa will have undergone a deepening of the culture of good governance, democratic values, gender equality, respect for human rights, justice and the rule of law. This aspiration reflects the desire for an Africa where women, men, youth, the elderly and all races of the continent will enjoy fundamental freedoms and rights to participate in the development of modern societies in the continent.

By 2063, Africa will be:

 

  • A continent where democratic values, practices, universal principles of human rights, justice and the rule of law are entrenched, and it will fully adhere to and observe the African Human Rights instruments, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights and the Protocols thereto; and
  • Characterized by institutions capable of designing and implementing, empowering multi- sectoral processes and leadership that is transformative at all

Entrenched democratic values, practices, and respect for universal principles of human rights, justice and the rule of law

By 2063, Africa will be characterized as a continent of democratic values and practices, which are entrenched in the political culture and in law, as provided for in the African Governance Architecture.

Africa will be a continent that conducts free, fair and credible elections which includes: (i) multi- party, plural systems; (ii) level, transparent playing field in the political competitive process; (iii) education of the electorate to make informed choices; and (iv) Pan Africanism, equality, diversity,

 

excellence and solidarity. A vibrant, diverse, well trained and responsible press that holds all branches of government accountable will be the norm. Freedom of access to information by all citizens, while safeguarding privacy, will be a right enshrined in law.

Africa by 2063 will be a continent that fully adheres to the universal principles of human rights, justice and the rule of law, including respect and protection of human rights of women and girls. All states will fully adhere to and observe the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights.

The continent’s citizenry will enjoy access to independent courts and judiciary that dispense and deliver justice with neither fear nor favour. There will be affordable and timely access to justice for all. Corruption and impunity will be a thing of the past.

Capable institutions and transformative leadership in place at all levels

Africa will be a continent where the institutions are at the service of its people – strong institutions in place to enhance citizens’ participation in development and in economic and governance management. Competent, professional and neutral bureaucracies based on merit will serve the continent and deliver effective and efficient services. Institutions at all levels of government will have the capacity to prioritize, design, implement and monitor development activities in an accountable manner, and with full participation of the people. In short, capable democratic and developmental states and institutions will characterize the continent.

Local communities will not only be responsible for their development but will also have their fair share of the exploitation of natural resources and use them for the benefit of all by 2025.

Aspiration # 4: A peaceful and secure Africa

By 2063, Africa will emerge as a peaceful and secure continent, a conflict-free continent with harmony and understanding among communities at the grassroots level. Inter–state and intra-state wars will be fully eliminated and mechanisms put in place to prevent and/ or immediately resolve any kind of inter-community conflict; and organized crime, terrorism (a major hindrance to peace and development) and other forms of criminal networks, such as piracy fully controlled. Africa will be a drugs-free continent, with no human trafficking. Diversity (ethnic, religious, economic, cultural, etc.) will be a source of wealth and accelerated economic growth rather than a source of conflict.

A prosperous, integrated and united Africa, and an Africa based on good governance, democracy, and respect for human rights, justice and the rule of law are the necessary pre-conditions for a peaceful and conflict-free continent.

A peaceful and secure Africa will be achieved through ensuring that by 2063, Africa will have in place:

  • Entrenched culture of peace;

 

  • Security and safety for all citizens; and

 

  • Appropriate majority contributions in defending the continent’s security and

 

By 2020 all guns will be silenced. By 2063, all conflicts emanating from ethnic, religious, cultural diversity and all forms of social exclusion will have been eliminated. National and other mechanisms for peaceful resolution of conflicts will be in place and a culture of peace will be nurtured in Africa’s children through integration of peace education in all school curricula.

Africa will have well-built mechanisms for conflict resolution, conflict de-escalation and threat minimization. The norms of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms for inter/intra and cross border conflict arbitration/negotiation schemes will be in place by 2020.

 

Africa will have in place cooperative mechanisms for dealing with transnational criminal activities such as drug trafficking, money laundering, cybercrimes, terrorism and related activities through simplification of legal measures, including the putting in place of an African Arrest Warrant System by 2020 and a system for exchange of information.

The continent will have witnessed improved human security with sharp reductions in per capita violent crimes. For Africa’s citizenry improved security will be the norm with safe and peaceful spaces for individuals, families and communities.

There will be complete and full civilian control of the uniformed services. Capable, professional and dedicated security services will be the norm and in place across the entire continent.

By 2063, Africa will have the necessary capacity to secure its interests by ensuring a peaceful and a militarily strong continent. Africa will possess strong security with a continental defence and security policy and strategy, so that the continent is capable of defending itself.

African land, air and sea forces for peace and conflict resolution under the appropriate United Africa authority will be established and fully operational. At the same time, national peace structures and mechanisms with standing capacities for conflict prevention and mediation, as well as the enhancement of the African Union capacities in peacekeeping, post conflict activities and peace building will be in place. An African Naval Command will be place to ensure that Africa’s maritime interests are secure. Cyber security will be embedded in Africa’s security framework, so that protection and defence capability is comprehensive and inclusive.

The present AU peace and security arrangements, their underlying philosophy, operational institutions as well as the partnerships that underpin them will be fully in tune with the realities on the ground and respond to the needs of ending conflicts and securing enduring peace. The African Peace and Security Architecture will be fully operational and supported principally by African resources.

Aspiration # 5: An Africa with a strong cultural identity, common heritage, values and ethics

Africa, as the cradle of human civilization, is custodian of a cultural patrimony that has contributed enormously to human progress. African cultural identity, values and ethics as a critical factor in Africa’s re-emergence on the global stage in the decade of the 2010s, will be promoted and strengthened by 2063. African people are imbued with a sense of their fundamental cultural unity, which has fostered a sense of a common destiny and African identity and Pan-African consciousness.

By 2063, Africa will be a continent where:

 

  • Pan Africanism is fully entrenched; and

 

  • African cultural renaissance is

 

Pan Africanism

By 2063, the fruits of the values and ideals of Pan Africanism will be manifest everywhere on the continent and beyond. The goal of the unity of the African peoples and peoples of African descent will be attained (2025). An Agency for Diaspora Affairs will be established in all member states by 2020 with the Diaspora integrated into the democratic processes by 2030. Dual citizenship for the Diaspora will be the standard by 2025, and importantly all nations under colonial rule will have won their freedom by2020. Pan African ideals will be mainstreamed in all school curricular and Pan African cultural assets (film, music, theatre, etc.) will be enhanced to ensure that African creative arts contribute significantly to GDP, directly and through heightened innovation among Africa’s youth, and in world culture.

 

African cultural renaissance

The Africa of 2063 will be one, where cultures will flourish. National languages will be the basis for administration, and there will be a strong work ethic based on merit. Traditional African values of family, community and social cohesion will be firmly entrenched and the resulting social capital will be valued and stand as an example to the rest of the world.

Africa will be a continent where the choices of roles of women are diverse, and include leadership across all aspects of society. The traditional and religious leaders, and Africa’s youth are drivers of change. Mechanisms will be in place for inter-generational cultural dialogue to ensure that Africa’s cultures are alive and evolving, while continuing to be a mainstay of the fabric of the continent.

Africa is a religious continent and its people are religious as well. Religion and religious expressions play a profound role in the construction of the African identity and social interaction. The Africa of the future is one that vehemently opposes all forms of politicization of religion and religious extremism.

Cultural heritage preservation – languages, customs, foods, traditions that are not harmful to women, girls, boys or men will be supported, including strengthened cooperation in the fields of culture, science and education. The 10th Edition of the WE Du Bois grand project of Encyclopaedia Africana will be published and available by the year 2063.

The Africa of 2063 will see Africa’s creative arts, folklore, national languages/literatures flourish and contribute to the growth and preservation of national cultures, with resources invested to establish programs to identify and preserve Africa’s oral history by 2025. Pan Africa Cultural Festivals (music, dance, film, couture) will be organized biannually. Africa’s contribution to global output in the creative arts/fine arts (film, literature, theatre, music and dance, couture) will be at least 15per cent and regional / continental associations for film, literature, theatre, arts, couture, oral tradition will be in place by 2025.

The Museum of African History, Culture and Art will be in place by 2025, opening a bi-annual African Cultural and Sports Festival of 2025. Prior to this, all African cultural treasures / patrimony will be retrieved by 2025.

Aspiration # 6: An Africa whose development is people-driven, relying on the potential of African people, especially its women and youth, and caring for children

By 2063, Africa will be a continent where all citizens will be actively involved in decision-making in all aspects of development, including social, economic, political and environmental. Africa will be a continent where no child, woman or man will be left behind.

Well before 2063, Africa will be a continent where gender equality is the norm in participation and access to social and economic opportunity, benefits and contributions for all segments of the continent’s population. Economic growth and development outcomes, social and political discourse will be plural, such that viewpoints from all, regardless of sex, political affiliation, religion, ethnic affiliation, locality, age or other factors, serve to strengthen, broaden and deepen participation in all spheres of life.

The Africa of 2063 will be a continent where:

 

  • Gender equality is embedded in all spheres of life;

 

  • Engaged and empowered Youth is the norm; and

 

  • Children are nurtured and

 

Gender equality in all spheres of life

Africa in 2063 will be a continent where the critical role of women in Africa’s transformation is recognized and proactively harnessed.

By 2063, all forms of violence and discrimination (social, economic, political) against women and girls, including sexual violence in conflict situations, will cease to exist and they will fully enjoy all their human rights. This means an end to all harmful social practices (child marriages, female genital mutilation, etc), all barriers to access to quality health and education for women and girls will be eliminated, and all gender disparities at all levels of education ended.

The Africa of 2063 will reflect the benefits of fully empowered women with equal access and opportunity in all spheres of life, including their human rights. This means that the African woman will have equal economic rights, including the rights to own and inherit property, sign a contract, register and manage a business, access to land, agricultural supports, financial and banking services, while recognizing, valuing unpaid care work and domestic work. Over 95per cent of rural women will have access to productive assets, including land, credit, inputs and financial and insurance services.

The Africa of 2063 will have seen full gender parity. It will see women occupy 50per cent of elected offices at state, regional and local bodies, and 50per cent of managerial positions in government and private sector will be held by women. The economic and political glass ceiling hindering women’s progress, handicapping broad based participation in Africa’s transformation will finally have been broken.

Engaged and empowered youth, and caring for children

Africa’s young people are the primary vehicle for realizing the demographic dividend and the principal engine for fostering development at all levels. By 2063, Africa’s children and youth will be fully engaged as the talent pipeline, principal innovators, and indeed the sustainers of Africa’s advantages from transformation. Youth overt unemployment will have been eliminated and they would have full access to educational training opportunities, health services, and recreational and cultural activities, as well as to financial means to allow each youth to fully realize their full potential. The youth will be incubators of new knowledge driven business start-ups and will contribute significantly to the economy.

By 2063 all forms of systematic inequalities, exploitation, marginalization and discrimination of young people will be eliminated and youth issues mainstreamed in all development agenda.

All forms of illegal migrations and trafficking of youth will have ended, with youth travels to beyond the continent undertaken mainly for cultural and recreational purposes, and not as a search for opportunities. The talent of African youth will be finally leveraged fully to foster the continent’s political, social, cultural and economic development.

Africa’s children, the future of the continent will be well cared for and protected from all forms of exploitation and harmful practices to ensure that they grow in safe, nurturing and fulfilling environments. They shall have full access to health, education and recreational activities. The provisions of the African Charter on the Rights of the Child will be fully implemented by 2020.

Aspiration # 7: Africa as a strong, united, resilient and influential global player and partner

Africa will emerge as a strong, united, resilient and influential global player and partner with a bigger role in world affairs.

 

By 2063, Africa will:

  • Be a major partner in global affairs and peaceful co-existence; and
  • Take full responsibility to finance her growth and transformation; and will not be donor

Africa as major partner in global affairs and peaceful co-existence

The African continent will assume its rightful place in assuring global peace and security through its permanent seats on the UN Security Council with all the privileges of permanent membership category, and with a deepened south-south cooperation based on a Common African Foreign Policy. There will be a strengthened African presence in other multilateral fora such as the IMF and World Bank, as well as on those relating to global and regional security.

There will be a self-re-empowerment of Africa; Africa determining its own future, leading its agenda and developing effective partnership frameworks with its external partners.

The new strategic role and place of Africa in the global arena will be based on mutually beneficial partnerships with the outside world. A United Africa will strengthen its capacity and role in global negotiations-in the global economic, environment, security and social negotiations, as well as on the reforms of the multilateral institutions including the UN Security Council based on the African common position enshrined in the Ezulweni consensus and the Sirte Declaration.

Africa shall also continue to advocate for the reform of the other global institutions, including the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, as well as the World Trade Organization to enhance international standards in a way that caters to the aspirations of developing countries and enable these countries face their challenges.

By 2063, Africa endowed with empowering policies, capable institutions, systems and finances and people with a range of skills in sufficient numbers will be in a strong position to meet the exigency of peace and security and exit dependence on external benefactors.

Established in 2020, the Pan African Leadership Institute (PALI) will by 2025 be graduating Africa’s future leaders. These young men and women will be adequately moulded and inculcated with an esprit de corps and the ideals of Pan Africanism, and they in turn would run the capable developmental state in the Pan African spirit. By 2025, PALI will be the centre of convergence for policy makers, political leaders, captains of industry, cultural and spiritual leaders, academics, African philosophers, artists, linguists and opinion makers who would on a yearly basis gather to debate and forge consensus on all aspects of Africa’s relentless march towards attaining the Agenda 2063 Vision.

The Union will have strengthened its institutional capacities and reclaimed the political initiative through making good on commitments to its people through increased resource collection and allocation to the work of the organs of the Union. With strengthened institutions the Union will reclaim the political initiative and realise an increased share in world economy and trade.

Africa takes responsibility to finance her own development

Africa by 2063 will take full responsibility for financing its own growth and transformation, with dependency on donors, or commodity exports being completely removed from the factors shaping the continent.

Taking full charge of its natural resources, investing in, and engaging its well-trained and skilled citizens of the time, while developing financial capital and commodity futures markets and expansive ICT and networked systems, Africa will also be in a position to finance the Union Government, and other key strategic initiatives, inter alia the African Space Agency and the Agency for Arctic and Antarctic Explorations and Oceanography.

 

New sources of funding from growing economies will fuel internal growth. The African Capital Market, alone, linked by member states’ capital markets will contribute about 30per cent of Africa’s investment capital needs thus ending aid dependency.

Africa will work to ensure that the post – 2015 development agenda reaffirms the Rio Principles of common but differentiated responsibilities, the right to development and equity, and mutual accountability and responsibility, as well as ensure policy space for nationally tailored policies and programmes. In this regard, Africa’s partners have a crucial role to play in supporting the continent’s development efforts through ODA and technology transfer in accordance with national needs and interests.

By 2063 Africa will be in a position to strategically manage the opportunities and risks presented by the evolution of a multi-polar world that is being shaped through a significant re-alignment of global political and economic power.

2.2         CONCLUSION – OTHER SCENARIOS

The Africa of 2063 depicted above and desired by her citizens if fulfilled will result in the continent taking her rightful place on the global stage. The convergence with the rest of the world will be reflected in the wellbeing of her citizens, the dynamism of her economy, the unity of her people, the culture of good governance, democracy and respect for human rights and the rule of law that will have taken root, the peace and security enjoyed by her citizens, the status of her women, as well as the cultural renaissance that will be generalized throughout the continent.

Other futures are possible; including a “business as usual” scenario, or at worse stagnation.

 

Africa’s economic development over the past two decades has been impressive. With the adoption of democratic and economic reforms since the 1990s, the continent’s economic growth has averaged between 5 to 6 per centper cent annually. “A business as usual” scenario assumes that such economic growth and investment rates of recent years will continue, its labour force continues to grow, commodity prices remain high, and the generally improved policies of the last two decades are maintained. But under this scenario, there is no sustained action on a new policy agenda, including no action taken to correct the lack of inclusiveness, lack of job growth, substantial poverty reduction and unsustainable natural resource management that recent economic growth rates are criticized for; and that productivity growth does not accelerate and Africa’s economies are not transformed.

The consequences of a “business as usual” scenario are as follows5:

 

  • Only a tiny number of countries, which had consistently high growth for the last two decades, will converge with the rest of the world, while the majority of the other countries do not converge, and the fragile countries stay
  • Per capita incomes continue to rise at 9 per cent annually but given growth in the rest of the world, however, Africa’s per capita incomes would actually diverge further from those in the rest of the world.
  • The middle-class would increase but after decades would still be only a third of the Nearly one in five Africans would, correspondingly, still be mired in poverty.
  • Finally, given growth elsewhere in the world, Africa’s share of global GDP would stagnate at a low

 

 

 
   

 

5 See Africa 2050: Realizing the Continent’s Potential

 

A scenario of stagnation is one that projects a reproduction of post-liberation African development patterns with high levels of external dependency, low productivity, low innovation, and unrelenting poverty. It is a scenario of stagnation or slow growth. In this scenario, there will be “neither major catastrophe, nor significant development” regarding the transformation of the African continent. It is part of the dominant narrative of the last twenty to thirty years when Africa had gone through a slow growth based on the formula of aid-based and structural adjustment futures.

Such a scenario is possible but highly improbable, and one that neither Africa’s citizen nor their governments will accept.

The optimistic picture of the continent reflected in the “Africa We Want by 2063” does not mean that the road to be travelled will be easy. As will be shown in the following chapter (3), the continent despite recent progress faces many deep-seated problems and challenges for which creative solutions and approaches are urgently needed.

Previous
Next
Logo