The New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) is an initiative of the former Organization of African Unity (OAU) that came into being in 2001 with South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, Senegal and Algeria as the founding member countries. NEPAD’s primary objectives revolve around eradication of poverty, promotion of sustainable growth and development as well as women empowerment through strategic partnerships. This is against the background of alarming poverty levels in Africa, underdevelopment and the marginalization of Africa from the global economy.
NEPAD has since been integrated into the AU processes and structures resulting in the NEPAD Planning and Coordinating Agency ( NEPAD Agency) which is based in South Africa. Instituted as the implementing arm of the AU, the Agency is also responsible for facilitation and coordination of development programmes across the continent. To facilitate implementation at a country level, NEPAD Agency works with national secretariats in member states each one authorized by respective Heads of States.