Les initiatives de développement lancées par l’Algérie en faveur des pays africains traduisent la dimension continentale de ses politiques
Title: Algeria’s Role in African Development: Insights from AU Commissioner Selma Malika Haddadi
In recent statements made during the 44th General Assembly of Shelter Afrique, held in Algeria from July 15 to 17, 2023, Selma Malika Haddadi, the Vice-President of the African Union (AU) Commission, emphasized Algeria’s significant role in advancing development initiatives across the African continent. She highlighted that these initiatives reflect the broader continental policy objectives of Algeria and affirm its position as a key partner in continental development efforts.
Haddadi described Algeria as playing a “pivotal role” in the African landscape, a role that has been consistently demonstrated through various initiatives launched by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. These initiatives aim to enhance the capacities of AU member states, particularly in areas such as education, higher education, vocational training, and the sharing of expertise, especially in critical sectors like agriculture and energy.
Infrastructure Initiatives
One of the standout facets of Algeria’s development strategy is its commitment to infrastructure projects, which include the Trans-Saharan Highway, a fiber optic network, and the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline. Haddadi referred to these projects as “living models” of Algeria’s commitment to a pan-African political agenda. These initiatives not only promote connectivity and economic integration but also serve as vital links between countries, fostering unity across borders.
Recognition from the African Union
The AU Commission expressed appreciation for Algeria’s active participation in various African organizations. The country hosts several important AU institutions, symbolizing Algeria’s strategic direction and the high regard it holds within the union. This central positioning allows Algeria to uniquely influence discussions and decisions that affect the continent as a whole.
Haddadi also mentioned President Tebboune’s decision to allocate $1 billion to the Algerian Agency for International Cooperation for Solidarity and Development (AACISD). This funding is earmarked for social and economic development projects across African nations, with a strong focus on essential sectors such as education, health, and infrastructure.
Promoting African Solutions
Haddadi stressed Algeria’s long-standing commitment to promoting peaceful, African-led solutions to the continent’s challenges. She noted that the AU’s current vision emphasizes the interconnectedness of peace, security, and development. This holistic approach aims to bolster the AU’s role in supporting development processes, thereby fostering a more stable and prosperous Africa.
In line with this vision, the newly appointed leadership of the AU Commission is actively working to reinforce the organization’s capacity to assist in development matters, aligning with member states’ aspirations for effective solutions to the continent’s needs.
Conclusion
In her closing remarks, Haddadi pointed out that her recent appointment, made upon the recommendation of Algeria’s high authorities, embodies the nation’s vision for enhanced collective action among African states. She reaffirmed her commitment to actively contribute to the defense of Africa’s common interests in all spheres, marking Algeria as a formidable player in the pursuit of continental solidarity and progress.
Through these initiatives, Algeria not only reinforces its role as a strategic partner in African development but also sets a progressive example for collaborative efforts aimed at fostering unity and growth within the continent.
