The President of the Republic, Mr Danny Faure, received a high-level delegation from the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) at State House this morning. The delegation is being led by the Chief Executive Officer of APRM, Professor Edward Maloka, accompanied by the APRM Head of Country Review Coordination, Dr Rachel Mukamunana, and the Universal Accession Coordinator, Mr Valery Yao Yao.
Established in 2003, the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) was set up by the African Union as a voluntary governance self-monitoring system within the framework of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD). Originating from and ‘owned’ by African countries, it provides an opportunity for civil society participation and public dialogue on governance issues. The APRM promotes peer learning and sharing through constructive dialogue and persuasion.
President Faure extended a warm welcome to the CEO of APRM Professor Maloka and his team to Seychelles and reiterated the country’s appreciation that the delegation made the time to visit Seychelles and discuss possible future collaboration. He affirmed that Seychelles is ready to respond to the call of the African Union for member states to join the African Peer Review and finalise the process for Seychelles to become a member.
“Seychelles is committed to engage with APRM to ensure that our shared interests are advanced and we achieve our common ambitions. We wish to echo our commitment to the principles enshrined in the African Union Charter and look forward to further developing our collaboration in the future,” said President Faure.
During discussions the delegation shared with the President a summary of the APRM procedures and mode of operation as well as had the opportunity to highlight some of the possible priority areas of cooperation areas Seychelles may require their assistance and support.
Speaking to the Press after the meeting, Professor Maloka said they are honoured to have been received by the President and with the positive outcome of Seychelles confirming its membership with APRM, they are now looking forward upon formalising all the necessary documentation to collaborate and explore areas the organisation can further and better support Seychelles.
Also present for the meeting at State House was the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and the Blue Economy, Ambassador Barry Faure, the Principal Secretary for the Department of Foreign Affairs, Dr Marina Confait and other officials.
Editor’s Note:
The APRM assessment is conducted within the framework of agreed values, codes and standards enshrined in the AU declaration on democracy, political, economic and corporate governance under four areas: