In 2013, the continent adopted Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want, which places African populations at the heart of the continent’s development. Within this framework, several instruments have been established, notably the African Charter on the Values and Principles of Public Service and Administration adopted in 2011, as well as the African Charter on the Values and Principles of Decentralisation, Local Governance and Local Development adopted in 2014. These instruments encourage Member States to institutionalize transparent systems for recognizing excellence and innovation in governance and decentralization.

During its 5th Ordinary Session held on 20 December 2024 in Tunis, the Ministers in charge of the African Union Specialized Technical Committee on Public Service and Administration, Local Government, Urban Development and Decentralization (STC No. 8-AU) adopted the principle of a Pan-African Awards Programme for Decentralization, Governance and Local Development.

The Local Leadership Excellence Award had previously been organized at national and subregional levels. This Pan-African edition, organized by the International Observatory on Participatory Democracy in Africa, in collaboration with the African Union Commission and United Cities and Local Governments of Africa, aims to reward ministries, local authorities, journalists and communication professionals, academics and researchers, children and young creators, as well as engaged citizens involved in innovative initiatives promoting access to public services, citizen participation, and inclusive governance.

It also promotes the sharing of best practices, innovations, and inspiring experiences in order to strengthen solidarity among African States and to advance decentralization adapted to the realities of the continent.