PAN-AFRICANISM was envisioned as a driving force for Africa’s self-determination, economic independence, and global influence. Its pioneers warned that political freedom alone would not be enough—without economic integration, Africa would remain vulnerable to external pressures and internal divisions.
Decades later, the African Union (AU) and regional bodies continue to advocate unity, yet challenges persist. Africa’s collective decision-making is often hindered by governance structures that prioritise national interests over continental advancement.
AU’s leadership and the need for a stronger collective voice
The AU plays a central role in fostering cooperation, but concerns about its effectiveness remain. One key issue is whether AU leadership can challenge governance failures within member states. With the AU Chairperson accountable to heads of state rather than a general electorate, diplomatic caution often takes precedence over bold action.
The absence of a strong African media network further weakens the AU’s influence. Unlike CNN, France 24, or Al Jazeera, Africa lacks a continent-wide independent news platform to shape its own narrative. Establishing such a media network—committed to editorial independence and sustainability—would strengthen Africa’s voice on global issues.
Lessons from history: Sékou Touré and African solidarity
In 1958, Guinea’s Ahmed Sékou Touré rejected French economic agreements, opting for full independence. In response, France withdrew aid, leading to economic struggles. Had other Francophone nations united in the same decision, the outcome might have been different.
This historical moment highlights a crucial question: how can African leaders today foster stronger solidarity to protect the continent’s interests?
New AU Chairperson and the future of pan-Africanism
On February 15, 2025, the AU elected Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, Djibouti’s long-serving Foreign Minister, as its new Chairperson of the Commission. Youssouf has emphasised financial self-sufficiency for the AU, a goal critical to reducing reliance on external funding.
Djibouti’s geopolitical significance—hosting multiple foreign military bases—raises questions about how Africa can balance external partnerships with internal self-reliance. Youssouf’s leadership will be closely watched to see if he can introduce meaningful AU reforms.
Balancing non-interference with accountability
One of the AU’s enduring challenges is its non-interference principle, which prevents intervention in member states’ internal affairs. While sovereignty is vital, ignoring governance failures, electoral disputes, and democratic backsliding can harm Africa’s collective progress.
Historically, there have been exceptions. In 1979, Tanzania’s Julius Nyerere took decisive action by leading a military intervention to remove Uganda’s dictator, Idi Amin. This demonstrated that regional solidarity can go beyond diplomacy when necessary.
Addressing AU’s structural and symbolic challenges
While the AU’s flag and emblem symbolise unity, inconsistencies—such as the exclusion of some island nations from representations—highlight areas for improvement. Additionally, the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, funded by China, is a stark reminder of Africa’s continued dependence on external support.
For the AU to fully embody its vision, investment in African-led initiatives is essential. This includes:
- Increasing financial contributions from all AU nations to reduce external dependency.
- Strengthening governance accountability within member states.
- Developing an independent continental media network to control Africa’s global narrative.
- Reevaluating the principle of non-interference to allow for constructive engagement in governance issues.
A shared future: strengthening pan-Africanism
Pan-Africanism’s success depends on shared commitment, strategic leadership, and financial independence. Despite ongoing challenges, Africa has the resources and talent to drive its own development agenda. With the right reforms, a more united and self-sufficient continent is within reach.
Norman Tanfield is a consultant at the South Africa based Institute for Justice and Reconciliation (IJR) with over 20 years of experience in human rights and democratisation across Africa. He holds an advanced law degree
