30 Nov 2016

 Southern Africa region candidate for the position of chairperson of the African Union Commission could just be what Africa needs to realise her potential as a key player in the international arena.

Despite not meeting the required two-thirds votes as per the rules of the African Union in Kigali, Rwanda, Dr Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi’s credentials and verve should put her in better stead to turn the stakes in her favour and assume the reigns during the Addis-Ababa summit in January 2017.

During the 27th AU summit in Kigali, Dr Venson-Moitoi was pitted against former Ugandan Vice-President, Specioza Kazibwe and Equatorial Guinea Foreign Minister, Agapito Mokuy.

In the final round, Dr Venson-Moitoi obtained 23 votes, falling short of the required two-thirds of the 53 votes necessary to be elected chairperson.

Dr Venson-Moitoi’s vision of AU is that of an integrated, results oriented organisation that pursues common objectives.

She envisions a people-centered and prosperous Africa which is at peace with itself.

Dr Venson-Moitoi’s dream about Africa resonates with AU’s Agenda 2063 of “an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the international arena.”

In January 2015, the African Union Assembly adopted Agenda 2063, which at its core, is a bold well thought out long-term vision and strategic framework for Africa’s growth, development and progressive integration.

Agenda 2063 is premised on the need for enhancing the living standards of African citizens.

It is the duty of the chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) to drive the process of Africa’s development and integration as articulated in the Agenda by working in close collaboration with member states and Regional Economic Communities (REC’s), along with all citizens of Africa and other partners on the continent and beyond.

Dr Venson-Moitoi describes AUC vision as one that is very much within reach in championing a sustainable future for Africa and also unlock the continent’s potential.

 She says in her vision statement it is time for the implementation of the AUC Agenda.

“Best plans, policies and programmes cannot without strong and driven implementation give rise to truly impactful results.”

It is Dr Venson-Moitoi’s firm conviction that when Africa walks with unity of purpose and direction great strides will be achieved.

The success of Agenda 2063 according to her lies with member states and RECs as key drivers in the mainstreaming of the agenda into national policies, programmes and regional priorities.

She states that transformed lives will form the cornerstone of the agenda in her capacity as the AUC chairperson.

Given a chance, Dr Venson-Moitoi intends inculcating high performance culture within the African Union Commission; something she affirm is necessary for a successful implementation of Agenda 2063.

“It is imperative to have an efficient and effective AUC human resource with a wealth of skills and commitment.

This is necessary to develop innovative solutions and approaches for the realisation of our common agenda. It will be prudent to ensure targeted interventions,” Dr Venson-Moitoi statement says.

She, however, takes comfort in the fact that Africa has a population that is dominated by young men and women whose creativity, passion, knowledge can see Africa rise.

“Young minds are an incredible resource in creating much needed innovation in transformation industries, moving towards development and growth of the continent.”

On financial resources, Dr Venson-Moitoi says constraints and unpredictable economic outlook demands that Africa should aggressively campaign for stronger ties and partnerships based on common but differentiated responsibility.

Holistic development and implementation of a communication strategy is another area of focus for Dr Venson-Moitoi.

Dr Venson-Moitoi says in her vision statement the strategy will not only help popularise Agenda 2063, but will go a long way at ensuring the kind of buy-in that drives its success.

Dr Venson-Moitoi, who is Botswana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation boasts a colourful political career spanning 17 years having first entered Parliament in 1999.

She has previously served as the Minister of Education and Skills Development; Minister of Works; Transport and Communications; Trade and Industry; Environment, Wildlife and Tourism.

She has also represented Botswana at the African Union and United Nations charged with the responsibility to articulate and protect Botswana’s foreign policy positions, goals and achievements.

She has also led trade and investment missions.

Prior to joining politics, Dr Venson-Moitoi served in the public service for over 20 years and held several senior positions including being appointed permanent secretary.

As a public servant, her career ranged from public service management, rural development, land management as well as labour relations.

She has also pursued other interest outside government among them being editor at Mmegi Wa Dikgang newspaper; chief executive officer of Kalahari Conservation Society; managing director of the Institute for Local Government in Cape Town, South Africa.

She is the founder of the Venson Consultancy, a capacity building consultancy in governance and administrative systems and procedures to mention but a few.

She holds a Master of Science in Administration from Central Michigan University, USA.

She is also a recipient of an Honorary Doctorate in Human Capital Development from Limkokwing University of Creative Technology. ENDS