2021 was severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused unprecedented disruptions in various processes with a direct bearing on both planning and implementation of socio-economic development policies as well as programmatic activities and service delivery. Travel restrictions significantly constrained the volume and pace of AUDA-NEPAD service delivery to RECs and Member States.

Programmatic challenges - The redirection of resources from other sectors to address emerging and urgent needs resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic caused a shift in priorities and a recalibrated focus on immediate and short-term responses and measures. This has resulted in reduced attention to long-term development and transformational objectives.

Operational Challenges - Although AUDA-NEPAD has recalibrated its delivery model by using online tools to engage with RECs and Member States, in some instances, this is not as effective as in-person engagement. Programme delivery has also suffered due to the varying levels of digital infrastructure across the Continent, relatively low Internet penetration, limited internet connectivity and infrastructure and elevated financial cost of participating in virtual sessions.

AUDA-NEPAD  Budget - The overall reprioritisation of funding in the AU system has brought about significant budget cuts for programme activities. This has impeded the efficacy of the Agency in providing effectual support to AU Member States and RECs. The current budget does not meet the institutional demands for carrying out the AUDA-NEPAD mandate and is currently at pre-AUDA-NEPAD levels when the organisation was the NEPAD Planning and Coordination Agency (NPCA). Although AUDA-NEPAD has stepped up its resource mobilisation in response, mobilising sufficient resources is challenging in the current global environment.

Agenda 2063 -  As the First Ten-Year Implementation Plan of Agenda 2063 draws to a close and preparations for the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan begin, it is essential to investigate (e.g. foresight studies) what critical interventions may be necessary for Africa especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. These interventions will need to focus on COVID-19 recovery, stabilisation and revitalisation of African economies. The Agency must continue its systematic engagement with Member States, RECs and all AU organs and agencies implicated in Agenda 2063 implementation to ensure coherent and aligned implementation efforts and robust monitoring and reporting.

2022 Priorities - Under the Agency’s Health Systems portfolio, AUDA-NEPAD’s primary focus will be strengthening medical product manufacturing and building regulatory infrastructure to harness technology choices and transfer. Inclusive access to primary health care systems will be a key priority. On Food Systems, AUDA-NEPAD will continue to build resilient food systems by enhancing productivity in irrigation and the general application of smart agriculture. This will include the agriculture industry through strengthening food production, safety and standards. Economic Growth and Jobs will focus on innovative economic competitiveness and diversification, job creation, entrepreneurship opportunities, and the prioritisation of transboundary infrastructure for regional integration through the implementation of PIDA PAP 2.