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This research paper by Faten Aggad, published by the South African Institute of International Affairs in June 2008, analyzes the Action Plans (PA) of the first six countries to undergo the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) process. The author argues that there is a significant gap between the recommendations issued by the Panel of Eminent Persons and the actual commitments adopted by governments in their Action Plans, often due to a lack of clear guidelines, a confusion between goals and specific actions, and the prioritization of national sovereignty over peer recommendations.

This research paper examines the relationship between governance, corruption, and foreign direct investment (FDI) in Africa, arguing that while good governance may not be the primary driver for short-term investment—particularly in resource-rich nations—it is essential for long-term economic stability and resource management.

This research paper argues that Africa is vulnerable to global Islamist terrorism and that the African Union (AU) has failed to implement its counter-terrorism frameworks. The author highlights the underfunding and understaffing of the African Centre for the Study and Research on Terrorism in Algiers and proposes a practical, incremental strategy for building capacity based on the specific strengths of key states and regional organisations.

This research paper argues that the legitimacy of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), the flagship programme of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (Nepad), is threatened by a lack of transparency and government control over the review process. The author contends that for the APRM to succeed in providing home-grown solutions for Africa, governments must ensure civil society leads the governing structures and that the self-assessment process is inclusive and independent.

This research paper examines the crisis of road infrastructure decay across Africa, highlighting the gap between maintenance needs and available national budgets, the resulting economic losses, and various funding and management strategies being tested to address the deficit.

This research paper examines the systemic advantages held by ruling parties in African electoral democracies, noting that incumbents often maintain power through state resource control, weak opposition structures, and the legacy of liberation movements.

An editorial by the South African Institute of International Affairs discussing the necessity of fair land reform in Africa, contrasting the approach of Robert Mugabe with more systematic efforts in Kenya and South Africa, and emphasizing the need for technical and financial support for new farmers.

This research paper by the South African Institute of International Affairs analyzes the evolving relationship between China and Africa. It argues that African nations must shift from an ideological 'liberation paradigm' to a pragmatic 'economic paradigm' to avoid Chinese dominance and ensure mutual benefit. The author suggests that Africa should leverage China's need for energy resources to secure technology transfer, local development projects, and fairer trade terms, while utilizing the China-Africa Co-operation Forum to coordinate a continent-wide strategy.

This research paper argues that high taxes and tariffs imposed by governments in poor countries, particularly in Africa, create significant financial barriers to accessing life-saving medicines and medical supplies, undermining international aid and drug price reductions.

This research paper examines the challenges of managing HIV/AIDS funding in poor communities, specifically focusing on the risk of graft and the lack of administrative capacity in grassroots organisations in South Africa and Kenya.

This research paper examines the challenges facing opposition politics and multiparty democracy in Africa, using the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) in Zimbabwe as a primary example of the struggle against dominant ruling parties and state-led electoral interference.

This research paper by the South African Institute of International Affairs examines the role of South African business investment in Africa, contrasting the high risks and low foreign direct investment (FDI) levels on the continent with the strategic success and high returns achieved by South African firms.

The National Chairman's Annual Statement 2008 from the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) discusses South Africa's evolving role in global affairs as it approaches the 2009 elections. The statement emphasizes the link between domestic governance and international credibility, outlining three critical tests for the state: responsible leadership during political transition, the resilience of democratic institutions, and the quality of policy implementation in areas such as climate change and conflict resolution. It further addresses regional instability in Africa, the influence of emerging powers like China and India, and the necessity of transitioning to a low-carbon economy.

This research paper by the Stockholm Environment Institute examines the economic, social, and political barriers preventing the adoption of clean cooking fuels in sub-Saharan Africa. It contrasts traditional biomass fuels with modern alternatives like LPG, ethanol, and biogas, highlighting how high capital costs, underdeveloped infrastructure, and socio-cultural norms sustain dependence on inefficient fuels. The authors propose a policy framework involving national bureaus, targeted subsidies, and community-led design to facilitate a transition to cleaner energy.

This research paper by the Institute for Security Studies provides an update on the operationalisation of the African Standby Force (ASF), a multidisciplinary force designed for rapid deployment in peace support operations across Africa. While the AU has made progress in developing doctrine, training policies, and standard operating procedures, the document highlights significant hurdles in logistics, AU-level leadership capacity, and sustainable financing.

This research paper by the Institute for Security Studies provides a progress update on the establishment of the African Standby Force (ASF), a multidisciplinary force designed to enable the African Union (AU) to respond to conflicts through peace support missions and interventions.

This briefing by the South African Institute of International Affairs assesses South Africa's foreign policy, economic relations, and security role within Africa since 1994. It highlights the transition from the 'principled' approach of the Mandela era to the 'pragmatic' African Renaissance agenda under Thabo Mbeki, while noting the tensions between South Africa's regional economic dominance and its desire to avoid being perceived as a 'big brother'.

This report by the South African Institute of International Affairs examines the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), an innovative governance assessment tool launched in 2002 under the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (Nepad). It details the APRM's five-stage review process, its continental and national institutional structures, and the practical challenges faced by 'pioneer' countries in implementing these rigorous, participatory assessments.

This report by the South African Institute of International Affairs provides a practical guide and critical analysis of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), drawing on the experiences of 'pioneer' countries. It details the official guidance documents, the structural requirements for national implementation, and a comprehensive set of 80 lessons for success aimed at improving the process's transparency, inclusivity, and effectiveness.

This briefing by the Institute for Security Studies analyzes the context and agenda of the 10th African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government Summit, held in Addis Ababa from January 31 to February 2, 2008. The document evaluates the AU's effectiveness in conflict management and outlines key discussions regarding the proposed Union Government of Africa and an AU Audit Report on continental integration.