Foundation renews partnership with AU

The Africa Leadership Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing democracy and human rights across Africa by renewing its partnership with the African Union’s Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security.

The two organisations signed a new Memorandum of Understanding at the African Union Commission headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

According to a release by the ALF, the MoU was signed on November 4, 2024.

The partnership was aimed at strengthening Africa’s democratic foundations and ensuring that respective African nations continue to grow as resilient and inclusive democracies.

In his opening remarks, the Executive Director of ALF, Dr Olumide Ajayi, lauded the impact of the initial agreement signed in 2021, while emphasising the importance of the renewed partnership.

Ajayi said, “The renewed MoU will grant us the needed space to address key areas that remain essential to Africa’s governance and electoral processes, including agenda-driven political party systems; grooming young and knowledgeable democratic leaders, enhancing women’s political representation and participation, strengthening election processes and institutions, creating functional and inclusive cabinets, supporting a vibrant civil society and promoting a dedicated pro-development parliament.”

He applauded the Patron of ALF, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, for his dedication to fostering donor support to ensure effective implementation.

Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner, Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Adeoye Bankole, emphasised PAPS’ efforts in upscaling the department’s activities around curbing youth violence, and women’s inclusivity and empowerment, especially in climate security, gender-based violence, and political participation across the African continent.