The Failure of African Leaders to Revive the Economy and Alleviate Poverty through the African Union

Abstract

This paper assessed the economic shortfalls of the African leaders in/ through the African Union (AU) in the revival of the African economy and that continues to hinder the continent's development. In doing so, the study employed qualitative techniques. Document analysis was used to illustrate that the African leaders in the organization have not done justice to their goal of being role players economic development of the continent. This has led to the contemporary mediocrity performance of continental economic development. This paper discovered that the economic vision of the African leaders through the AU has not been met thus far. This is a clear indication of the failure of the leaders to meet the organization’s objective in terms ofpoverty alleviation is concerned. The study recommends various mechanisms to enhance Africa’s development through internal trade and economic integration. Hence, it concludes that it is clear that the African Union has not yet achieved its economic objectives. To change this, Africa needs to promote unity and establish itself as a key player in global economic trade, rather than being on the sidelines.