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Zawya
29-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Mastercard Foundation and UNHCR launch historic partnership to transform education and livelihoods
NAIROBI, Kenya - /African Media Agency(AMA)/- The Mastercard Foundation today announced a landmark $300 million strategic partnership with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, that will enable more than half a million refugees and displaced youth across Africa to complete their education and 200,000 young people to transition into dignified work by 2030. 'This extraordinary commitment comes at a time of unprecedented displacement across Africa, and globally,' said Kelly T. Clements, UNHCR Deputy High Commissioner. 'Its scale and long-term focus – on education for refugee children and youth, and on livelihoods for adults – lay the foundation for meaningful recovery and lasting contributions to host communities. The stability and opportunities such support provides are exactly what displaced communities need to rebuild their lives and move forward amid all the challenges they face.' This five-year initiative represents one of the largest private philanthropic commitments of its kind globally and expands the Foundation's collaboration with UNHCR to improve long-term outcomes for refugees and displaced people. 'We've seen refugees and displaced young people make immense contributions to their communities when they have the right support," said Reeta Roy, President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation. "As part of our Young Africa Works strategy we are scaling high impact partnerships that enable young people to access the education and skills needed to get a job or build their own businesses. This new commitment to UNHCR is a continuation of that approach and builds upon remarkable results achieved enabling 68,000 youth to access work in just six months.' This partnership contributes to Mastercard Foundation's goal of enabling 30 million young people to access dignified work by 2030, as part of the Young Africa Works strategy. The announcement was made in Nairobi at the 2025 Africa Forum on Displacement, a strategic event co-convened by the Amahoro Coalition, Inkomoko and UNHCR and supported by the Mastercard Foundation and IKEA Foundation. Under the theme "All-In," the Forum convenes industry leaders, government officials, philanthropic organizations, and refugee-led businesses to discuss and commit to sustainable action. Addressing an Urgent Continental Challenge With 45 million refugees and displaced people across Africa, countries like Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo represent some of the largest displacement crises globally. This partnership will focus on these most affected regions while providing UNHCR the flexibility to respond to the cross-border nature of displacement. The partnership aims to achieve the following: Enable more than half a million refugees and displaced youth (50% women, 5% persons with disabilities) to access and complete secondary education. Support 10,000 young people in tertiary education, including university and TVET (technical and vocational education and training) programs. Transition 200,000 youth (70% women) into dignified work through entrepreneurship and employment. Strengthen 100 local and refugee-led organizations to co-implement solutions and influence policy. Building on Proven Impact Since 2019, the Mastercard Foundation has partnered with UNHCR on several impactful initiatives to strengthen resilience and promote entrepreneurship among displaced young people and refugees. One notable program supporting refugees in Sudan and neighboring countries has helped 30,000 young people return to secondary education and enabled 68,000 youth - 62% of whom are women - to access work opportunities within just six months. Behind these numbers are stories of remarkable transformation, like Dr. Fatima, a doctor who fled Sudan's conflict with her four children. After years serving in some of the toughest emergency wards across Darfur and Khartoum, war changed everything. Overnight, she and her children became refugees, crossing into Chad. Through the Mastercard Foundation–UNHCR partnership, Dr. Fatima received accreditation to continue her medical career, working alongside Sudanese colleagues Yacoub and Hassan. Fatima and Yacoub have now obtained their accreditation to practice in Chad, with Hassan's accreditation process underway. This professional recognition enables them to work, earn, and serve both refugee and host communities. For Fatima, the ability to work is about more than a paycheck — it's a return to identity, dignity, and purpose. The dramatic impact achieved in Sudan demonstrates what is possible when emergency humanitarian response evolves into investment in refugee-led development solutions. Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf of Mastercard Foundation. About UNHCR UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is a global organization dedicated to protecting people forced to flee because of conflict, violence or persecution. Since 1950, UNHCR has been providing life-saving assistance, safeguarding fundamental rights, and helping build better futures for refugees, displaced communities and stateless people. Working in over 135 countries, UNHCR delivers protection and support to millions each year, helping them find safety, stability and hope. For more information, visit About the Mastercard Foundation The Mastercard Foundation is a registered Canadian charity and one of the largest foundations in the world. It works with visionary organizations to advance education and financial inclusion to enable young people in Africa and Indigenous youth in Canada to access dignified and fulfilling work. As part of the Young Africa Works strategy - which aims to enable 30 million young people to access dignified and fulfilling jobs by 2030 - the Foundation is scaling high impact partnerships that enable young people to access the necessary education and skills needed to get a job or build their own businesses. Established in 2006 through the generosity of Mastercard when it became a public company, the Foundation is an independent organization with offices in Toronto, Kigali, Accra, Nairobi, Kampala, Lagos, Dakar, and Addis Ababa. Its policies, operations, and program decisions are determined by the Foundation's Board of Directors and Leadership team. For more information on the Foundation, please visit Media contacts: UNHCR Amina Rai: raia@ Mastercard Foundation Kweku Ahiagble: rkahiagble@
Zawya
09-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Djibouti Forum calls for optimism and greater collaboration amidst policy-induced global turbulence
DJIBOUTI City, Djibouti-/African Media Agency(AMA)/- Global turbulence, much of it self-inflicted, dominated discussions at the second edition of the Djibouti Forum. Nonetheless, business leaders appeared relatively optimistic, and this wakeup call may turn out to be a good omen for the continent. This year's Djibouti Forum convened over 150 international guests from 51 countries, including institutional investors overseeing more than $2.6 trillion in cumulative assets. A common thread throughout the discussions was the need for greater strategic partnerships as well as a call for greater domestic resource mobilisation, allowing pension funds and sovereign wealth funds to take greater risks. Prime Minister Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed declared that Djibouti was ready to diversify its economy beyond its well-established ports and logistics sector, which he described as 'one of the most efficient and sophisticated in Africa.' 'Renewable energy, the digital economy, tourism, and financial services are all at the heart of this next chapter. We're looking for access to capital, expertise, and partners who share our long-term vision.' The Prime Minister reassured investors of Djibouti's unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and fostering economic and political stability. 'The pillar of our strategy in Djibouti is stability. Our currency, pegged to the dollar since 1949, offers investors a degree of stability that is rare in Africa,' he remarked. Dr. Slim Feriani, CEO of the Fonds Souverain de Djibouti (the country's sovereign wealth fund), emphasised the fund's readiness to co-invest alongside international investors in key projects. 'The FSD will partner with all of you, taking equity stakes and essentially putting skin in the game. We want to double our assets under management in the next five years, and we know that we cannot do this alone,' he noted. Feriani highlighted the potential for attractive returns on investment for private players in Djibouti. 'Investors here have seen positive returns,' he explained, while acknowledging the need for sustained reforms to further attract private investment. 'The private sector is a force for good, which needs positive regulations to create a conducive environment.' The two-day forum featured over 50 high-level speakers, engaging in discussions on topics such as privatization, public-private partnerships, and priority economic sectors including technology, connectivity, energy, tourism, financial services, and logistics. The event facilitated lively debates among leading economists, policymakers, and investors about the macroeconomic landscape in Djibouti and across Africa. Dr. Acha Leke, Senior Partner & Chairman of McKinsey & Company, Africa, expressed optimism regarding Africa's economic prospects despite challenges such as high indebtedness and unequal economic growth across countries. 'Despite all its challenges, Africa is home to approximately 345 businesses valued at over $1 billion, with cumulative revenues around $1 trillion,' he stated. Lionel Zinsou, former Prime Minister of Benin and co-founder of SouthBridge, identified the emergence of philanthropic capital as a crucial opportunity for Africa. 'There is a new important partner in blended finance, which is the partnership of the public and private sectors with philanthropy. They are prepared to de-risk investments and to supply grants, which helps lower the costs and interest rates for projects,' he said. Dr. Samuel Maimbo, former World Bank Vice President, commended the FSD for creating a collaborative platform for institutional investors in Africa. 'The idea of having an African sovereign wealth fund working with other SWFs is the start of a good conversation. We must stop this cycle of aid and debt. We know how the story ends. It is time to pivot to hope and prosperity.' The Djibouti Forum was hosted by the Sovereign Wealth Fund of Djibouti (Fonds Souverain de Djibouti), established in March 2020 and now under the stewardship of CEO Dr. Slim Feriani, a former Tunisian Minister with over 30 years of experience in international capital markets. Distributed by African Media Agency. on behalf of IC Publications -Ends- About the Djibouti Forum: Convened by the Sovereign Wealth Fund of Djibouti (Fonds Souverain de Djibouti), this two-day event is a global platform to accelerate investment in fast-growing emerging markets. This Forum highlights the potential and prospects of Djibouti as well as the African continent. It facilitates dialogue and collaboration among key stakeholders from the public and private sectors, as well as the SWF and institutional investment community. The Forum is not only showcasing interesting investment opportunities in the country but is also bringing together CEOs, investors and developers to foster collaboration amongst like-minded individuals and catalyse strategic investments for the whole subregion. About Fonds Souverain de Djibouti Established in March 2020, the Sovereign Wealth Fund of Djibouti is helping to build a multigenerational savings pot, improve governance, diversify the economy and catalyse greenfield investments in the country's strategic sectors. These include sustainable natural resources and energy, telecommunications and digital infrastructure, technology, tourism, financial services, critical infrastructure and services, healthcare and education. For more information visit: Media contact IC Publications Isabelle Dana
Zawya
08-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
11th Regional Forum on Sustainable Development to focus on driving jobs and economic growth
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia -/ African Media Agency(AMA)/- The Eleventh Session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD-11) is set to take place in Kampala, Uganda, from April 9 to April 11, 2025, preceded by pre-events, such as the Africa Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Forum. This multi-stakeholder forum will be jointly organized by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the Government of Uganda, in collaboration with the African Union Commission, the African Development Bank, and various United Nations agencies. Under the theme 'Driving job creation and economic growth through sustainable, inclusive, science-and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063,' ARFSD-11 aims to address the pressing need for concerted action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union's Agenda 2063. With only five years left to meet these ambitious targets, the Forum represents a crucial opportunity to catalyze real change on the Continent. While some progress has been registered on the SDGs as reported in voluntary reviews, the organizing experts worry that Africa, like many parts of the world, is currently off track with most SDG targets and has even seen regression in certain areas. The Forum is being held at a critical time when commitments to enhance the pace of implementation across the continent need to be revitalised. African States need to take bold, ambitious and accelerated transformative measures to improve development outcomes. As part of the ARFSD, countries will participate in a Regional preparatory workshop for African voluntary national reviews and voluntary local reviews, with the aim of strengthening peer-to-peer learning and sharing best practices and success stories in addressing common challenges that are specific to Africa. Furthermore, there is the urgency to implement the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan (STYIP) of Agenda 2063, as it directly aligns with the overarching goals of the 2030 Agenda, with ambitions known as 'moonshots' which include the attainment of at least middle-income status and the amicable resolution of conflicts in Africa by 2044. Amplifying Africa's collective voice on the SDGs and Agenda 2063 The annual Forum is coming in the wake of resolutions reached at the 2024 Summit of the Future and the need to push concrete actions for the implementation of the Summit's outcomes. Additionally, the Forum will serve as a preparatory meeting for the Second World Summit for Social Development, set to be held in Qatar in November 2025. This alignment emphasizes the importance of Africa's collective voice on global platforms. The objectives of ARFSD-11 include a comprehensive review of progress, challenges, and opportunities in implementing the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063 with specific focus on five key SDGs: SDG 3 (good health and well-being) SDG 5 (gender equality) SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth) SDG 14 (life below water) and SDG 17 (partnerships for the goals) and the corresponding goals of Agenda 2063 with a special focus on its second ten-year implementation plan (STYIP) Furthermore, the Forum aims to strengthen learning and advocate for effective policy measures that promote sustainable, inclusive, and evidence-based solutions at national, regional, and global levels. It will also facilitate consensus-building and the adoption of key outcome documents, including the Kampala Declaration on sustainable development. As a multi-stakeholder forum, ARFSD-11 will adopt a hybrid format, allowing both in-person and virtual participation from ministers, high-level policymakers, experts, and practitioners across various sectors. Participants will represent ministries responsible for planning, economic development, gender and social affairs, health, environmental management, and more. Additionally, stakeholders from civil society, the private sector, media, academia, and regional organizations will contribute to the discussions, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive dialogue. According to the organizing team, Africa is at a pivotal moment, with the potential to significantly advance the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063 from the ground up. The Forum is being organized as one that needs to shape the future of sustainable development across the region. For registration and more: About the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa Established by the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the United Nations (UN) in 1958 as one of the UN's five regional commissions, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa's (ECA's) mandate is to promote the economic and social development of its Member States, foster intraregional integration and promote international cooperation for Africa's development. ECA is made up of 54 Member States and plays a dual role as a regional arm of the UN and as a key component of the African institutional landscape. For more information, visit: Media Enquiries: and Issued by: Communications Section Economic Commission for Africa PO Box 3001 Addis Ababa Ethiopia E-mail: eca-info@
Zawya
02-04-2025
- Health
- Zawya
First of its kind collaborative report unveils the transformative role of AI and data science in advancing global health in Africa
NAIROBI, Kenya -/African Media Agency (AMA)/-– Africa stands at the forefront of a revolutionary shift in global health, driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and data science, according to a report released today from the Science for Africa Foundation (SFA Foundation), African institutions and research councils. The report is a first of its kind to comprehensively examine national-level perspectives across Africa on AI and data science for global health. The landscape presents an unprecedented view into the potential to improve AI governance in Africa to reduce the risk and stop the perpetuation of inequity. Titled 'Governance of Artificial Intelligence for Global Health in Africa', the report is produced through the SFA Foundation's Science Policy Engagement with Africa's Research (SPEAR) de la Fondation SFA. programme as a culmination of a year-long effort involving convenings across Africa's five regions, policy analysis and extensive surveys to identify policy gaps and opportunities in AI and data science for global health. Grounded in consultations across 43 African countries, the report incorporates insights from over 300 stakeholders, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive approach to its findings. 'The global AI governance framework remains ill-suited to Africa's unique needs and priorities,' said Prof. Tom Kariuki, Chief Executive Officer of the SFA Foundation. 'Our report on AI in global health and data sciences champions a shift towards frameworks that reflect Africa's context, ensuring ethical, equitable, and impactful applications of AI not only for our continent's health challenges, but also to advance global health.' Key findings and opportunities The report identifies key trends, gaps, and opportunities in AI and data science for health across Africa: Increasing national investments: Countries including Mauritius, Nigeria, Malawi, Ethiopia, Ghana, Rwanda, Senegal, and Tunisia have launched national AI programmes, while at least 39 African countries are actively pursuing AI R&D. Initiatives such as Rwanda's Seed Investment Fund and Nigeria's National Centre for AI and Robotics illustrate promising investments in AI startups. Need for health-specific AI governance: Despite growing interest, there is a critical gap in governance frameworks tailored to health AI across Africa. While health is prioritised in AI discussions, specific frameworks for responsible deployment in health are still underdeveloped. Inclusive AI policy development: Many existing AI policies lack gender and equity considerations. Closing these gaps is essential to prevent inequalities in access to AI advancements and health outcomes. 'Incorporating AI into healthcare is not just about technology—it is about enhancing our policy frameworks to ensure these advancements lead to better health outcomes for all Africans,' added Dr Uzma Alam, Programme Lead of the Science Policy Engagement with Africa's Research (SPEAR) programme. There are existing policy frameworks on which to build and/or consolidate governing of responsible AI and data science: At least 35 African countries have national STI and ICT as well as health research and innovation policy frameworks that contain policies applicable to the development and deployment of AI and data science. There is a surge in African research on health AI and data science (big data): raising the need for equitable North-South R&D partnerships. Recommendations and way forward The report is expected to act as a catalyst for integrating AI into health strategies across the continent, marking a significant step forward in Africa's journey toward leadership in global health innovation by calling for: Adaptive and Inclusive AI Governance: The report calls for the integration of diverse perspectives spanning gender, urban-rural dynamics, and indigenous knowledge into AI health governance frameworks. It highlights the need for adaptive policies that balance innovation with equitable access, while leveraging regional collaboration and supporting the informal sector. Innovative Funding and African Representation: Recognising the potential of local knowledge and practices, the report advocates for creative funding models to bolster AI research and development. It emphasises connecting the informal sector to markets and infrastructure to encourage grassroots innovation. The Reinforcement of Science Diplomacy: To position Africa as a key player in global AI governance, the report recommends investing in programmes that align AI technologies with Africa's health priorities. It also stresses the importance of amplifying Africa's voice in shaping international standards and agreements through robust science-policy collaboration. The Bridging of Gendered digital divide: To bridge the gendered digital divide in Africa. targeted initiatives are needed to address regional disparities and ensure gender inclusivity in the AI ecosystem. It's essential to focus on programs that build capacity and improve access to resources. 'The report clearly outlines pathways for leveraging AI to bridge gaps and overcome current capacity constraints, while strengthening Africa's role as a leader in shaping global health policy,' said Dr Evelyn Gitau, Chief Scientific Officer at the SFA Foundation. 'This initiative showcases Africa's potential to lead, innovate, and influence the global health ecosystem through AI. 'We envision a world where AI advances health outcomes equitably, benefiting communities around the world. The Science for Africa Foundation's report brings this vision to life by providing clarity on policy frameworks of AI and data science in global health. This empowers African voices to shape AI policy – not only directing healthcare innovation but setting a precedent for inclusive AI governance across sectors.' – Vilas Dhar, President of the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation. -Ends- Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf of SFA Foundation. Access the Report here: Media Enquiries: Davies Mbela; Additional quotes: 'AI has the potential to positively change the way Clinical Trials and Capacity Development are conducted in sub-Saharan Africa such as expediting progress, increasing community-centredness and reduction of costs. Through the Global Health EDCTP3 strategic research and innovation agenda, the Partnership places significance on the digitalisation of the health sector, including health technologies, medical devices, key enabling technologies, and decision-support systems, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. We look forward to this bright future in sciences for global health.' Dr Thomas Nyirenda Head of Africa Office, European & Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP) 'At the Africa Research and Impact Network (ARIN), we recognize that the transformative potential of AI in global health requires more than just innovation, it demands collaboration in co-creating inclusive, transdisciplinary solutions. This collective approach ensures that AI governance in Africa is grounded in local realities, while also paving the way for sustainable and equitable health systems. By advancing inclusive policy frameworks and practices that integrate science, innovation, and local knowledge, we are committed to bridging the gap between global trends and local solutions, empowering Africa's health resilience and climate adaptation efforts for a more sustainable future.' Dr. Joanes Atela, Executive Director, Africa Research, and Impact Network (ARIN) 'Cochrane South Africa, as part of the South African Medical Research Council, is thrilled to see the finalised report on Governance of Artificial Intelligence for Global Health in Africa: A Review of Policy and Regulatory Frameworks. It has been an honour to contribute to the discussions shaping the future of AI in health across the continent, and we look forward to leveraging this critical work to drive innovation and equitable health solutions for Africa.' Duduzile Zwane, Deputy Director, Cochrane South Africa 'A year ago, the Science for Africa Foundation embarked on a journey to explore how Africa can harness AI for health while ensuring equitable access and mitigating risks. Engaging 43 countries and over 300 stakeholders revealed that Africa's healthcare future requires not just technology, but robust policy frameworks to drive sustainable, community-centered change. Through STISA-34, we aim to craft solutions reflecting African needs and values while influencing global health innovation. This milestone is a testament to the tireless efforts of my team and our partners, shaping a future where AI meets the health needs of all Africans and beyond.' Uzma Alam, Programme lead, Science Policy Engagement with Africa's Research (SPEAR) programme, SFA Foundation. Notes: The report, which was enabled by the support of the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation, was developed in collaboration with Human Resources and Science Research Council; South Africa Medical Research Council, National Research Foundation; Cochrane South Africa; l'African Open Science Research Platform; Malaria Research and Training Centre; mDoc; European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership; Insititute of National Planning; Academy of Scientific Research and Technology; L'Institut des Sciences Appliquées (ISA) de l'Université des Sciences, des Techniques et des Technologies de Bamako (USTTB); Research Enterprises Services; Africa Open Data and Internet Research Foundation; Nigeria Health Watch; Africa Research & Impact Network et Malawi Ministry of Education/Directorate of Science, Technology and Innovation, Institute of National Planning (INP), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT). It builds on and complements the 'Catalysing equitable AI use for Improved Global Health' grants awarded to 17 African innovators through the SFA Foundation's 'Grand Challenges Africa' initiative. In addition, the report has been synthesised into 5 key policy outputs on: Leveraging AI to Strengthen Health Systems in Nigeria , Report of the Malawi NSTIP National Stakeholder Consultative Workshop , Gender Mainstreaming in AI Policy in Africa , Opportunities and Gaps in the Governance of AI for Global Health in Africa, Enhancing AI Publications on Global Health Research from Africa . These outputs provide actionable recommendations for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners, offering a roadmap to integrate scientific insights into national strategies and frameworks, ultimately advancing health and well-being across Africa.
Zawya
15-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
In Addis Ababa, experts review the state of economic and social development in Africa
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia-/ African Media Agency(AMA)/- Ahead of next week's 2025 Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, a Committee of Experts has assembled at the UN Conference Centre in Addis Ababa for a three-day preparatory technical meeting to review the state of economic and social development in Africa and consider progress towards regional integration. The theme of this year's Conference of Ministers is 'Advancing the implementation of the Agreement Establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area: proposing transformative strategic actions'. The Committee, which holds from 12-14 March, will also consider statutory issues relating to the work of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and make recommendations, as appropriate, for consideration by the African ministers of finance, planning and economic development during the ministerial segment on 17-18 March. Opening the expert's segment, Ethiopia's State Minister of Finance, Semereta Sewasew said the theme of this year's conference of ministers underscores the urgency of unlocking the continent's economic potential through enhanced intra-African trade. She stressed that the AfCFTA is more than just a legal framework; it is a transformative initiative designed to deepen Africa's economic ties. By facilitating trade, harmonizing policies, and dismantling barriers, the agreement aims to foster industrialization, job creation, and poverty alleviation, which are vital to achieving the goals laid out in Agenda 2063, Africa's blueprint for sustainable development. Minister Sewasew noted that despite the ambitious objective of the AfCFTA, infrastructure gaps, financing constraints, and varying capacities among member states pose significant hurdles to its implementation. She called upon the delegates to propose actionable recommendations to ensure the AfCFTA translates into tangible progress, especially for women, youth, and small and medium enterprises, which are critical to Africa's economic backbone. She also highlighted Ethiopia's commitment to regional integration through substantial investments in infrastructure, such as the Addis Ababa-Djibouti railway, which strengthens trade links across the Horn of Africa. Additionally, Ethiopia's energy resources, particularly from the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, position the country as a leader in regional energy cooperation. For his part, Antonio Pedro, Deputy Executive Secretary of the ECA, highlighted the AfCFTA's role as a development blueprint and a political platform for Africa to assert its collective interests on the global stage. He called for a re-evaluation of Africa's import dependencies, urging member states to leverage local production capabilities for commodities like fertilizers and refined petroleum. Mr. Pedro noted that intra-African trade remains low, accounting for only 14.4% of total trade on the continent and said that the AfCFTA presents a unique opportunity to enhance trade within Africa, projecting that intra-African trade could increase by 45% by 2045 if tariffs and non-tariff barriers are reduced. He stressed the essential role of infrastructure development in realizing the AfCFTA's potential saying that an estimated $ USD 411 billion is needed for transport infrastructure to support increased trade, including investments in railways, vessels, and trucks. The outgoing Chair of the Conference of African Ministers from Zimbabwe noted progress made by the ECA over the last year in supporting member states in areas such as macroeconomic stability, development planning, and industrialization. He reaffirmed the commitment to building on these achievements and advocating for a fair global financial system as Africa seeks to transform its economies through the AfCFTA. The Conference serves as one of the premier forums for dialogue and the exchange of views among African ministers responsible for finance, planning and economic development and governors of central banks on issues pertinent to the continent's development agenda. Side Events: On the weekend, ahead of the Ministerial Segment, the Conference will host the following side events: The Single African Air Transport Market, the free movement of people and the African Continental Free Trade Area Innovative financing instruments for sustainable climate finance and debt management in middle-income countries Empowering businesses in Africa to trade successfully under the Agreement Establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area to foster inclusive growth and decent work Food security and cross-border trade: navigating challenges and opportunities amid the implementation of the Agreement Establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area Making the African Continental Free Trade Area work for African young people: opportunities, challenges and the way forward Role of subregional multilateral development banks in delivering on African development objectives Distributed by African Media Agency. on behalf of Communications Section Economic Commission for Africa More on the Conference of Ministers: Follow the Experts session live at: For media enquiries please contact
