On 11th May 2017 in Johannesburg, South Africa, the APRM and Africa Insights, a regional Think Tank, held discussions on advancing the agenda agreed upon, under the recently signed Memorandum of Agreement. Discussions in the meeting also centered on preparations for the Upcoming ‘Africa Governance Dialogue. Speaking on behalf of Africa Insight, Dr. Daniel Kinnear highlighted the need to establish a continent-wide network and critical mass to inform initiatives on governance across the public and private spheres on the Continent through research governed by Pan-African philosophy and approaches. Mr. McBride Nkhalamba, Head of Division of Thematic Research and Coordination, reiterated the need to continually acclimatize and customize the APRM Research to the continent’s realities, both in its approach and thematic focus. He also emphasized the importance of expanding the network of research partnerships beyond the APRM Strategic Partners to include African Think Thanks which have greater and effective adaptability to changing context; thinking and methods.

The partnership between the APRM and Africa Insights is anchored in two major areas; Transformative Leadership in Africa and Improving Corporate Governance of State Owned Entities. The meeting also discussed preparations for the African Governance Dialogue scheduled to take place later this year in collaboration with the African Union Africa Governance Architecture and APRM strategic partners.

Africa Insights Think Tank is an Independent and Africa-based think tank committed to research and analysis, insights and thought-leadership, on the Continent’s politics, economy, diplomacy, governance and security. Their other services include; Political Risk Analysis – monitoring and evaluating political developments to identify and understand risk and provide impartial analysis and advice. Trend Analysis – developing robust scenario content to determine outcomes. Lobbying – facilitating confidential engagement and develop strategy to shape public debates, change opinions and influence policy outcomes.