The African Union at 50: The Path Forward

The African Union turns 50 years old this month, marking one half century of increased political and economic cooperation across the continent. The African Union’s aims include promoting unity and solidarity among member states; enhancing peace, security and stability on the continent; and increasing good governance and international cooperation. While significant progress has been achieved in all these areas, the African Union continues to encounter distinct development challenges, including ensuring progress on regional integration, ongoing regional instability, poverty and inequality.

On May 17, the Africa Growth Initiative at Brookings marked the African Union’s 50th anniversary with a discussion on the successes and challenges of this important institution. Panelists included: Deputy Assistant Secretary for African Affairs Reuben Brigety, Georgetown University Professor of Anthropology and Foreign Service Gwendolyn Mikell and H.E. Tebelelo Seretse, ambassador of the Republic of Botswana. Brookings Senior Fellow Mwangi Kimenyi, director of the Africa Growth Initiative moderated the discussion.