Bamako has become the focal point of Africa’s public administration reforms as ministers from across the continent convene to shape the future of civil service delivery.
On August 23, 2025, the 12th Conference of Ministers of the Observatory of African Public Services (OFPA) opened in the Malian capital, following two days of expert-level discussions.
Delegates are reviewing the organisation’s 2019–2024 activity and financial reports, appointing a new executive secretary, and outlining a roadmap to modernise, digitise, and revive the institution.
Founded in 1991 in Cotonou, Benin, the OFPA brings together 26 member states with a shared mandate: to support governance, democracy, rule of law and human rights while strengthening the capacity and efficiency of African public administrations.
The Bamako session is seen as a pivotal moment to realign the organisation’s mission with the evolving role of the state in Africa.
Ministers are expected to focus on tangible outcomes, including the establishment of a 2025–2026 budget that reflects strategic priorities, a clearer framework for member contributions, and the creation of a shared training programme to enhance administrative capacity. Digitisation remains at the heart of the agenda, with participants stressing its importance in improving transparency, accountability and service delivery across the continent.
The preparatory sessions highlighted several challenges, such as irregular statutory meetings, unpaid member dues and the weakening of the executive secretariat. As one participant described it, the Bamako conference represents an opportunity for the “relaunch” of the OFPA.
Regional mobilisation has been evident, with governments including Burkina Faso confirming their participation in the expert sessions held on August 22 and the ministerial opening on August 23. Documents submitted for approval include the organisation’s activity and financial reports, as well as proposals for a renewed governance framework.
This 12th edition aims to reaffirm OFPA’s role as a pan-African platform for monitoring, comparing and advancing civil service reforms. The challenge now lies in turning Bamako’s decisions into measurable improvements in national administrations, from training programmes and digitalised procedures to stronger management standards and consistent service delivery.
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