Policy Analysis & Commentary
Leveraging the African Union's Role in the Time of Covid-19
Written during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, this article calls for a coordinated Pan-African response led by the African Union. It argues that the crisis exposed weaknesses in national public health systems and tested the capacity of regional institutions to provide collective leadership. Beyond immediate health interventions, it advocates stronger social protection, economic recovery financing, investment in science and technology, and sustained regional cooperation. The article also emphasises institutional accountability, the continuity of continental integration initiatives and improved crisis preparedness, arguing that effective regional leadership should strengthen Africa's capacity to respond collectively to future emergencies.