Bougouma Diagne is based in Senegal and works for the Cultural Association for Social and Educational Self-Promotion . In March, Saloman Kebede interviewed him on the upcoming Grand Debate on the Continental Government during the next African Union Summit, June – July 2007. This interview is one of several interviews with African citizens and CSO leaders on the AU proposal for Continental Government. Emily Mghanga of Pan Africa Programme Oxfam edited this interview.

Salomon Kebede: What are the strengths and weaknesses of the current proposal?

Bougouma Diagne: The current essence of the proposal is that if we unite, we become stronger and will realise the same objectives and goals. A weak point to note is that many African countries are dependant and in-directly controlled by stronger economies in Asia, North America and Europe.

Salomon Kebede: Should it be adopted in Accra in July 2007, what would you like to see the African Union Commission achieve within the first phase (2007-2009)?

Bougouma Diagne: The African Union Commission should first popularize that decision across the continent in order to involve all citizens in the process.

Salomon Kebede: Why would this form of continental union be important to African citizens & particular the poor and marginalized?

Bougouma Diagne: The AU Commission has to create ways of African citizens to participate. It is most acceptable to have organs that ignore or unaccountable to public opinion.

Salomon Kebede: How could states and non-states ensure that continental union efforts are transparent, participatory and driven by an appreciation of political and economic rights?

Bougouma Diagne: The main objective should be to implement the AU charter and particularly sections that safeguard the rights of people. This will ensure citizen involvement in the AU agenda. That way we can be sure that people will have an interest in continental union.

Salomon Kebede: What obstacles must the AU overcome for the continental union to be successful?

Bougouma Diagne: The AU has to take cultural diversity into consideration and plan so that we are all accommodated. This will bring harmony and acceptance from all citizens in the continent.

Salomon Kebede: In what policy area, would you like to see greater convergence and unity across Africa and why?

Bougouma Diagne: Education is the main problem in Africa, because an illiterate society is undermined in many ways.

The views expressed here are the perspectives of the interviewee. Bougouma Diagne can be reached by email: capes at sentoo.sn/acapes at acapes.org