President John Mahama has departed Ghana for Kenya, where he will join other African leaders to participate in a High-Level Retreat on African Union (AU) Institutional Reforms.

The retreat is scheduled to take place from 26th to 27th January 2025, in Nairobi.

The event, which is being held at the invitation of Kenya’s President William Ruto, will focus on the progress and future of AU reforms.

President Ruto, who was designated the African Union Champion for Institutional Reform in February 2024, will use the retreat to update fellow heads of state on the strides made in implementing the mandate given to him by the Assembly of the African Union. He will also present proposals for the way forward for their consideration.

The retreat provides an opportunity for President Mahama to contribute his leadership experience and insights, as well as Ghana’s commitment to the African Union agenda.

His participation is expected to enrich the discussions aimed at enhancing the efficiency, accountability, and sustainability of the AU as it strives to meet the needs of the African continent.

The call for AU reforms was first made in 2016 when African leaders identified the urgent need to restructure the organization to better address the continent’s challenges.

The AU's role in driving Africa’s Agenda 2063 vision focused on inclusive economic growth and development was seen as critical in shaping the future of the continent.

The outcome of extensive consultations on these reforms led to the identification of five key areas requiring immediate action to transform the AU:

1. Prioritising Continental Scope - The AU must focus on fewer priority areas with a broader continental reach.
2. Structural and Operational Review - There is a need to review the structure and operations of the AU, ensuring institutional realignment for improved service delivery.
3. Connecting with African Citizens - The AU must strengthen its connection with the African citizenry.
4. Operational Effectiveness - The AU needs to improve its operational efficiency in executing its mandate.
5. Sustainable Financing - The organisation must implement sustainable financing mechanisms to reduce its over-reliance on development partners.