The African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU) on 5 March 2025 signed a €20 million financing agreement aimed at strengthening institutional capacity and accelerating development initiatives across Africa.
The EU-African Union Partnership Performance Acceleration Programme (AUPPAP) will support key projects aligned with Agenda 2063, the AU’s long-term vision for socio-economic transformation, as well as the AU-EU Joint Vision for 2030. The initiative, set to run for two years, will focus on institutional strengthening, economic growth, digital transformation, connectivity, and energy development.
The agreement was signed on the sidelines of an AU Member States information session on the EU-Africa: Global Gateway Investment Package for Africa, an event highlighting European investments in digital infrastructure, energy, transport, health, education, and research.
Ambassador Fathallah Sijilmassi, Director General of the African Union Commission (AUC), said the initiative would contribute to the institutional transformation of the AU Commission and its organs, benefiting member states and citizens. “This cooperation reinforces AU integration efforts and sustainable development goals,” he stated, acknowledging the EU’s longstanding support.
Ambassador Javier Niño Pérez, the EU’s representative to the AU, emphasised Africa’s strategic importance to the EU. “Our partnership is rooted in solidarity, peace and security, sustainable development, and prosperity,” he said. He also reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting the AU’s institutional capacity, economic integration, and digital and energy initiatives.
The AUPPAP is expected to enhance the AU’s ability to implement strategic initiatives while complementing the EU’s broader Global Gateway Investment Package for Africa. This latest agreement marks another milestone in AU-EU relations, as both blocs celebrate 25 years of partnership in 2025.
By strengthening institutional capacity and development initiatives, the AU and EU reaffirm their commitment to a mutually beneficial and sustainable future for Africa and Europe.
