AUC Deputy Chairperson Charts Bold Reform Path at 50th PRC Session
The African Union Commission (AUC) Deputy Chairperson, H.E. Ambassador Selma Malika Haddadi, delivered a compelling opening address at the 50th Session of the Permanent Representatives’ Committee (PRC), outlining the Commission’s strategic direction, financial hurdles, and the continent’s push for justice and reparations.
Speaking on behalf of AUC Chairperson H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Ambassador Haddadi conveyed the Chairperson’s regrets due to urgent commitments and reaffirmed his confidence in the PRC’s deliberations.
She emphasized the new leadership’s commitment to fostering trust and cooperation with Member States as they work towards implementing the Second Ten-Year Plan of Agenda 2063.
“In these first few months, we’ve prioritized collaboration, efficiency, and alignment with our Member States and partners,” she said, citing intensified efforts in peace and security, sustainable financing, and policy implementation.
Ambassador Haddadi acknowledged the challenges within the African Union’s internal operations, highlighting the urgent need to rationalize missions, reduce inefficiencies, and enhance coordination.
She commended PRC Chair Ambassador Miguel Bembe of Angola for his leadership in revitalizing AU policy organs and stressed the importance of improved planning, timely documentation, and better resource use.
“The forthcoming PRC-AUC retreat will be vital for deepening dialogue and accelerating institutional change,” she stated.
Turning to one of the most pressing issues—funding—Haddadi painted a sobering picture. Despite the 2015 and 2016 decisions aimed at financial self-reliance through Member State contributions and the 0.2% import levy, only 17 countries have implemented the Kigali Decision. The AU’s budget has seen a 6% decline over the past five years, severely affecting staffing, maintenance, and operations.
She proposed that every AU decision henceforth be accompanied by financial implications to help Member States make informed commitments, stressing, “The Union’s sustainability depends on bold, united action.”
Ambassador Haddadi noted the recent Coordination Committee Meeting between the AUC and Regional Economic Communities (RECs), calling it a “critical platform for synergy.” She also reaffirmed the AU’s expanding global role, particularly its increased engagement with the United Nations, the G20, and through forums such as FOCAC and TICAD.
In closing, Ambassador Haddadi emphasized the AU’s 2025 theme on Justice and Reparations for Africans and People of African Descent. She called it a moral imperative to confront colonial and slavery-era legacies.
“Justice for Africans is not only about compensation—it’s about recognition, dignity, and unity,” she declared, citing recent engagements at the Africa Dialogue Series and the EU-AU Summit as vital platforms to elevate the reparations agenda.
The 50th PRC session sets the stage for key proposals to be submitted at the upcoming Executive Council and Mid-Year Coordination Meeting, with broad implications for Africa’s integration, governance, and economic sovereignty.
