Governance
How We Are Structured
ALCO is built on a simple idea: Africa moves faster when countries learn from one another and work from shared standards. To deliver that, the Organization uses a governance model that is transparent, efficient, and designed for continental impact.
Our structure ensures that Member States, industry actors, and technical experts all have a voice in shaping the future of local content development.
1. General Assembly
The General Assembly is ALCO’s highest decision-making body.
It brings together representatives from all Member States and officially-endorsed institutions.
Roles:
Defines long-term vision and strategic priorities.
Approves new members.
Validates continental programs, protocols, and standards.
Reviews annual performance and impact.
Meets: Once per year, with extraordinary sessions when required.
2. Executive Board
The Executive Board oversees the execution of ALCO’s strategy and ensures operational discipline.
Composition:
Chairperson (elected among Member States)
Vice-Chairperson
Three rotating regional representatives
Executive Secretary
Responsibilities:
Supervises implementation of ALCO programs.
Approves annual work plans and budgets.
Guides external partnerships and high-level engagements.
Ensures alignment with AU, AfCFTA, and regional institutions.
3. Executive Secretariat
The Secretariat is the engine room of ALCO.
It manages day-to-day operations, member support, analytics, and strategic initiatives.
Led by: the Executive Secretary, responsible for continental coordination, partnerships, and overall management.
Core Units:
Policy & Standards Division
Impact & Analytics Division (ALCIM Hub)
Enterprise & Skills Development Division
Digital Platforms & Innovation Division
Membership & Country Support Division
Administration & Partnerships Division
Finance, HR, logistics, and institutional partnerships.
4. Advisory Council
The Advisory Council brings together high-level experts from industry, academia, international organizations, and finance institutions.
Purpose:
Provide independent guidance on ALCO’s strategic direction.
Strengthen the relevance and rigor of ALCO’s programs.
Anchor the Organization in global best practice and continental realities.
This Council is consultative, not executive.
5. Technical Working Groups (TWGs)
To push innovation and practical solutions, ALCO operates several TWGs involving regulators, operators, and industry specialists:
Local Content Policy & Regulation
Cross-Sector Implementation
Supplier Development & SME Upgrading
Data, Measurement & ALCIM
Digital Systems & Interoperability
Skills & Certification Pathways
Gender in Local Content
These groups develop guidelines, benchmarks, and tools shared across Member States.
6. Country Chapters
Each Member State hosts a National Chapter that serves as ALCO’s operational arm in-country.
Roles:
Coordinate local programs and missions.
Collect data and feed national insights into ALCIM.
Support members (regulators, ministries, operators) with implementation.
Ensure two-way flow between the Secretariat and country stakeholders.
Chapters are coordinated by Country Focal Points appointed in collaboration with national authorities.
Join the Movement
Whether you are a policymaker, a private operator, a local enterprise, or a development partner, ALCO offers a platform to collaborate, share knowledge, and shape the future of African industrial development.
Together, we can build stronger industries, stronger economies, and stronger African capabilities.
