mechanisms; secondly, the research methodology in this report benefits considerably from consultations with the AU Organs and Institutions, Regional Economic Communities; and unfettered access to Member State informants and state-held data; thirdly, the report is generated by Africans for Africa, which improves prospects for the implementation of its recommendations. 4. This inaugural report is meant to be a foundation for future analysis of governance trends on the continent. The report highlights shared values and how they can help galvanize governance in the continent. It establishes a basis for measurement, analysis, and projection of future trends. 5. The governance assessment focuses on five key thematic areas of priority, namely: (a) transformative leadership, (b) constitutionalism and the rule of law, (c) peace, security and governance (Silencing the Guns), (d) the nexus of development and governance, and e) the role of the regional economic communities (RECS) in African governance. 6. The structure of the report is as follows: Chapter 1 is an Introduction that reflects on the concept of governance, provides a background and context, explains the purpose and methodology of the report, and introduces the relevant structures of the AU. Chapter 2 outlines the African Governance Policy Framework, including the African Union Shared Values, within the context of the AU Agenda 2063. Chapter 3 is about Transformative Leadership. Chapter 4 discusses Constitutionalism and the Rule of Law Chapter 5 deals with Peace, Security and governance. Chapter 6 is on the Nexus Between Development and Governance. Chapter 7 considers the role of the Regional economic communities in Governance. Chapter 8 delivers a comprehensive range of Recommendations for the consideration of AU Member States. 7. Each chapter provides a comprehensive reflection and assessment of the State of Governance in Africa by focusing on the relevant instruments, notable progress in implementation, challenges and enablers of good governance, as well as best practices, and proposes recommendations for improvement. 8. The state of governance in Africa has generally improved.The strongest performance has been registered in socio-economic development, while the least gains have been recorded in democracy and political governance. Member States have also recorded satisfactory performance in the area of economic governance and management and corporate governance. THE AFRICA GOVERNANCE REPORT 2019 5