Africa set for economic growth as AU selects new chair

Despite some parts of the continent being riddled with wars, corrupt leadership and electoral irregularities, Africa is set for economic growth, with the emergence of aggressive youth leaders expected to spell an end to the era of octogenarians, according to political analysts.

- Brian Sokutu

With the African Union (AU) next month choosing a new chair, one expert has predicted the appointee will come from the East African region.

Among key functions of the AU Commission chair are to take overall responsibility for the body's administration, programme, finances and promoting the AU's objectives.

Prof Dirk Kotzé, of the University of South Africa's department of political science, said preparations and campaigning were already in place.

"There is an expectation that someone from East Africa will be the chair, but some southern African countries have expressed interest in the role."