Ethiopia Participates in COP 29 Annual UN Climate Summit
Addis Ababa Hosts the Third Mining and Technology Expo 2024
Ethiopia and EU Strengthen Partnership Through High-Level Talks
Partners Welcome Government’s Commitment to Pretoria Peace Agreement through DDR Implementation
Regional Consultation on Financing for Development in Africa Held in Addis Ababa
NEWS IN BRIEF
Ethiopia
Ethiopia participated in the 29th session of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 29), held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11–22, under the theme In Solidarity with the Green World. The Ethiopian delegation, led by President Taye Atske-Selassie, engaged in the conference and took part in the World Climate Action Summit. (See Article)
President Taye addressed the 8th Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) Week gathering on Tuesday (November 26). He underscored Ethiopia’s transformation in infrastructure, highlighting massive investments in road networks, railways, and renewable energy. (See Article)
He received a courtesy call from Nardos Bekele-Thomas, CEO of AUDA-NEPAD, on the sidelines of the PIDA Week conference. Discussions focused on strengthening partnerships to accelerate Africa’s development. Ethiopia pledged full support to AUDA-NEPAD.
President Taye also spoke at the Continental Conference on Peace, Prosperity, and Development held in Addis Ababa on Monday (November 25), where he lauded the Pretoria Peace Agreement as a landmark achievement embodying the principle of African solutions to African problems.
On Saturday (November 23), the president officially opened the 3rd International Mining and Technology Expo 2024 at the Millennium Hall in Addis Ababa. He emphasized that the Ethiopian government is working diligently to ensure the country benefits from the mining sector by properly utilizing its untapped mineral resources. (See Article)
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali received Timothy Williams, the Special Envoy of the African Development Bank (AfDB) for the Implementation of the Food and Agriculture Delivery Compacts, for discussions on agricultural initiatives on Friday (November 29).
On the same day, PM Abiy also met with Jean-Noël Barrot, the French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, to discuss bilateral relations.
Prime Minister Abiy has officially inaugurated ‘Quality Village’ on Saturday (November 23). The newly inaugurated ‘Quality Village’ is a critical institution designed to catalyze the competitiveness of Ethiopia’s local products in global markets and enhance its participation in global value chains.
Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos met with Sudan’s Foreign Minister, Ambassador Ali Youssef Ahmed Al-Sharif, on Tuesday (November 26). The ministers agreed to hold regular bilateral political consultations to strengthen ties, promote peace and stability, and advance regional economic integration.
Minister Gedion met with the European Union (EU) Political and Security Committee (PSC), led by Ambassador Delphine Pronk, Chairperson of the EU PSC and Deputy Director of Political Affairs at the EU External Action Service (EEAS), on Friday (November 22). The meeting aimed at deepening the longstanding partnership between Ethiopia and the EU. (See Article)
Foreign Minister Gedion met with Jin Liqun, President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), on Thursday (November 28). During the meeting, he urged the bank to finance major infrastructure projects in Ethiopia, emphasizing the favorable conditions for strengthening cooperation between Ethiopia and the AIIB.
International partners, through a Joint Press Release, commended the Ethiopian government’s efforts in initiating the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Rehabilitation (DDR) Program on Saturday (November 23). (See Article)
Ethiopia and Rwanda held a high-level bilateral meeting on Wednesday (November 27) during the Continental Peace Conference in Addis Ababa. Ministers of Peace, Binalf Andualem and Vincent Biruta, Rwandan Minister of Interior, reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and collaborating on regional peace and development initiatives.
Ethiopian Minister of Agriculture and InterAfrican Coffee Organisation (IACO) Chairman, Girma Amente, opened the second phase of the 64th IACO Annual Meetings on Tuesday (November 26), reaffirming Ethiopia’s leadership in the African coffee industry and commitment to advancing its legacy as a global coffee leader.
Ethiopia and China signed a bilateral agreement to enhance cooperation in the tourism sector on Tuesday (November 26). Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa and Chinese Ambassador Chen Hai signed the agreement in Addis Ababa.
Ethiopia hosted the regional consultation for the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Africa on Monday (November 18). Organized by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), the event provided a platform for African stakeholders to align their perspectives and craft a unified African voice on critical issues related to financing the continent’s development. (See Article)
Ethiopia and Japan have fostered a strong and enduring partnership characterized by diplomatic, economic, and cultural collaboration. Over the past seven decades, the two nations have developed a deep bond rooted in mutual respect and shared goals, focusing on areas such as development, peace, and security. This long-standing relationship has contributed significantly to the growth and prosperity of both nations and continues to evolve as both countries face new challenges and opportunities.
In a statement released by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Wednesday (November 27), Ethiopia is set to receive an additional $251 million under its $3.4 billion, four-year Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement. The announcement follows a staff-level agreement on the program’s second review.
State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mesganu Arga, met with Uganda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, John Mulimba, to discuss enhancing bilateral relations and addressing regional challenges at his office on Thursday (November 28). Key topics of discussion included trade, security, climate change, and regional cooperation. The two agreed to hold the Fourth Joint Ministerial Commission in Addis Ababa next year.
On the same day, State Minister Ambassador Mesganu held talks with the Special Envoy of the Federal Republic of Germany, Ambassador Wolfgang Dold. The two sides discussed further enhancing bilateral and multilateral cooperation, building on 120 years of diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Germany.
On Wednesday (November 27), Ambassador Mesganu met with Qatari Ambassador Saad Mubarak Saad Al Jafali Al Naimi to discuss enhancing cooperation. The two sides agreed to hold political consultations in January next year and emphasized the commitment to boosting economic ties.
Earlier that day , the State Minister also met with Italy’s Undersecretary of State, Giorgio Silli. They emphasized exploring the development cooperation agreement between Ethiopia and Italy in a renewed spirit.
Ambassador Mesganu also led Ethiopia’s delegation to attend the 23rd Extraordinary Session of the AU Executive Council on Tuesday (November 26). The virtual meeting reviewed the AU Skills Assessment and Competence Audit (SACA) process and addressed strategic priorities following the AU’s admission to the G20.
State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Birtukan Ayano, remarked on Tuesday (November 26) that Ethiopia is committed to increasing women’s participation in diplomacy during an event themed “Women in Diplomacy: Building across Generations.”
Ethiopia participates in the fifth meeting of BRICS Sherpas/Sous-Sherpas in Ekaterinburg, Russia, on Wednesday (November 27). Special Policy Advisor of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Minelik Alemu shared Ethiopia’s views on strengthening cooperation among BRICS countries.
Ethiopia and China agreed on Monday (November 25) to enhance cybersecurity cooperation during a meeting between INSA Director General Tigist Hamid and Chinese Ambassador Chen Hai.
Ethiopia’s Space Science and Geospatial Institute also signed an agreement with China’s CAS-SECM on Tuesday (November 26) to launch the second Ethiopian Remote Sensing Satellite (ETRSS-2).
The inaugural meeting on neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) was held in Addis Ababa on Wednesday (November 27), bringing together representatives from Kenya, Sudan, South Sudan, and Uganda to coordinate efforts to eliminate the diseases across borders.
Eritrea
General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Chairman of Sudan’s Sovereign Council, visited Asmara on Tuesday (November 26) for a one-day working trip. He and President Isaias Afwerki discussed matters of bilateral interest.
Kenya
On Monday (November 25), President William Ruto met with US AFRICOM Commander General Michael Langley at State House, Nairobi, to discuss defense cooperation and regional security.
Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, Chief of Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), held discussions on Tuesday (November 26) in Addis Ababa with a military delegation from Kenya, led by General Charles Kahariri, Chief of the Kenya Defense Forces. Both sides agreed to strengthen their collaboration in the military sector to sustain and further develop their partnership.
Somalia
Foreign Affairs Minister Ahmed Fiqi participated in the High-Level Panel at the 8th Forum of Ideas in Djibouti, organized by the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies on Monday (November 25).
South Sudan
President Salva Kiir awarded Ethiopia’s Federal Police Commissioner, General Demelash GebreMichael, the Presidential Medal for his role in strengthening police cooperation and supporting reforms in South Sudan on Tuesday (November 26).
On Friday (November 22), a 15-member South Sudanese parliamentary delegation held discussions with Ethiopia’s HPR committee on public expenditure, focusing on sharing experiences and enhancing bilateral relations during a meeting in Addis Ababa.
Africa and the African Union
The 8th PIDA Week was launched on Monday (November 26) in Addis Ababa, focusing on “Fostering Resilient & Inclusive Infrastructure.” Leaders and experts are addressing Africa’s infrastructure challenges with a focus on innovative financing and regional integration.
Ethiopia Participates in COP 29 Annual UN Climate Summit
Ethiopia participated in the 29th session of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 29), held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11–22 under the theme In Solidarity with the Green World.
The conference brought together world leaders, climate scientists, and delegates to address pressing global climate challenges. It began with a two-day World Leaders Climate Summit (WCAS) and was followed by formal negotiations, high-level plenaries, and ministerial roundtable discussions aligned with the theme of the conference. On the sidelines, exhibitions, panel discussions, and bilateral meetings further enriched the event. Ethiopia actively engaged in key sessions, underscoring its commitment to addressing climate change.
The Ethiopian delegation, led by President Taye Atske-Selassie, participated in the World Climate Action Summit, attended by heads of state and high-level dignitaries. In Ethiopia’s national statement, President Taye highlighted the country’s commitment to combating climate change through initiatives such as the Green Legacy Initiative. He emphasized the need for international collaboration and accessible climate financing for developing nations.
President Taye also participated in a high-level event on Early Warning Systems, convened by the UN Secretary-General, where he shared Ethiopia’s progress in implementing a multi-hazard early warning system. He stressed the importance of leveraging digital technology and enhancing critical infrastructure.
Additionally, Ethiopia and Denmark co-hosted a side event on Cutting Carbon, Adapting Food Systems, and Restoring Nature on the Path to 1.5°C. At the event, President Taye showcased Ethiopia’s achievements in afforestation and agricultural productivity, earning praise from the Prime Minister of Denmark, Mette Frederiksen, who commended Ethiopia’s allocation of 1% of its national budget to climate action and pledged Denmark’s support.
Ethiopia signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Denmark and the Russian Federation to accelerate its Green Transition, focusing on forestry, renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, and global climate policy. Denmark also pledged $15 million to support Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative, aiming to protect natural forests and bolster afforestation efforts.
On the margins of COP 29, President Taye held bilateral meetings with leaders from Azerbaijan, the Czech Republic, and Denmark.
Minister of Planning and Development Fitsum Aseffa engaged in bilateral discussions with counterparts from Italy, Denmark, Russia, and the World Bank. Ethiopia, as the chair of AMCEN, convened a meeting to enhance coordination among African nations and other developing country groups, including the G77 and China, and the Least Developed Countries (LDC) group.
Ethiopia showcased its diverse climate initiatives at a dedicated pavilion within the Blue Zone, highlighting efforts in forestry, renewable energy, smart agriculture, biodiversity, transportation, industry, and environmental protection. Over the two-week summit, Ethiopia reinforced its proactive approach to addressing climate change through dozens of events.
Ethiopian representatives, including experts from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other ministries, actively participated in formal negotiations under the Paris Agreement. The negotiations addressed key agenda items, including the New Collective Quantifiable Goal (NCQG), Carbon Credit/Article 6, the Global Goal on Adaptation, the Technology Implementation Program, the Gender Work Program, the Mitigation Work Program, and the Global Stocktake.
COP 29 concluded with a mixed outcome. While a $300 billion annual climate finance target by 2035 and operational carbon trading rules were achieved, transformative actions fell short. Developed countries agreed to extend the existing $100 billion annual climate finance goal to support sustainable energy transitions, climate adaptation, and loss and damage management in vulnerable nations. However, negotiations on critical issues like the fossil fuel transition, enhanced climate finance, and increased ambition in national goals were deferred to the next COP.
Despite these challenges, Ethiopia’s climate leadership and contributions were widely recognized. As the world reflects on the outcomes of COP 29, it remains crucial for developed nations to fulfill their climate finance commitments to support Ethiopia and other nations in their ambitious efforts to combat climate change.
Addis Ababa Hosts the Third Mining and Technology Expo 2024
The 3rd edition of Mining and Technology Expo (MINTEX 2024) took place in Addis Ababa at the Millennium Hall from November 23-26. Co-organized by the Ethiopian Ministry of Mines and affiliated institutions, the expo aimed to explore Ethiopia’s mining sector and unlock its substantial potential.
President Taye Atske-Selassie officially inaugurated MINTEX 2024, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing the mining sector’s crucial contribution to national economic growth, supported by a new mining policy and ongoing macroeconomic reforms.
In his keynote address, President Taye further stressed the importance of mining practices that enable African countries to fully harness their resources.
Mining Minister Habtamu Tegegn, on his part, noted that Ethiopia’s new mining policies are designed to foster a conducive environment for local and international investments while ensuring local community benefits.
The event garnered attention from high-ranking officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh. The Deputy Prime Minister acknowledged the importance of mining as a priority area in the national economic reform strategy while visiting the Expo.
Ambassador Mesganu Arga, State Minister of Foreign Affairs, accompanied by senior officials from the Ministry, also attended the Mining and Technology Expo. During his visit, it was noted that the Ministry had been actively promoting the event through its overseas missions and encouraging members of the diplomatic community in Addis Ababa to participate. It was further reiterated that the Ministry will continue its efforts to attract foreign investors and explore alternative market opportunities for value-added minerals.
The Expo featured moderated panel discussions that allowed professionals and experts to exchange insights on various topics, including the development of mining resource corridors, the economic impact of Ethiopia’s gemstone potential, value addition on gold, and the role of refineries.
The event drew a diverse crowd, including domestic and international mining companies, financial institutions, and the diplomatic corps, providing a platform for networking across the mining industry’s value chain—from technology and equipment to investment and services.
The 3rd Mining and Technology Expo (MINTEX 2024), concluded on Tuesday (November 26), was a pivotal moment for promoting sustainable mining practices and investment opportunities while showcasing Ethiopia’s natural resources. The event offered insights into the future of mining in Africa and facilitated valuable connections among industry leaders, highlighting a positive outlook for Ethiopia’s mining sector.
MINTEX 2024 has served, in general, as an important platform for collaboration, learning, and innovation with the goal of advancing economic development through strengthening the mining sector.
Ethiopia Successfully Hosts the 8th Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa Week in Addis Ababa
Ethiopia took center stage in promoting infrastructure development by hosting the 8th Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) Week. Held from November 25-29 in Addis Ababa, the event was themed “Fostering Resilient and Inclusive Infrastructure for Africa’s Sustainable Growth: Leveraging Transformative Financing and Regional Integration.” The gathering highlighted the critical role of innovation, collaboration, and transformative financing in addressing Africa’s infrastructure investment gap.
The event was hosted by the Government of Ethiopia and co-organized by the African Union Commission, the African Union Development Agency—AUDA-NEPAD, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, and the African Development Bank.
The opening ceremony set a collaborative tone for the week. In his remarks, Taye Atske-Selassie, President of Ethiopia, emphasized the central role of infrastructure in driving economic growth and regional integration across Africa.
“PIDA represents the foundation of our collective efforts to achieve the ambitious goals of Agenda 2063. It aims to strengthen ties between African countries and stimulate intra-African trade,” the President said.
During the opening ceremony, Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, stressed the importance of collaboration among African nations to achieve the aspirations of Agenda 2063.
“To drive sustainable growth, we must re-establish PIDA as a symbol of resilience and impact, attracting diverse financing. By mobilizing both public and private funds, including pension funds, we should prioritize climate resilience and inclusiveness,” he noted.
Ethiopia’s commitment to infrastructure development plays a pivotal role in connecting its regions and the broader continent. By hosting PIDA Week, Ethiopia showcased its dedication to fostering collaboration and investment in modern infrastructure, with a particular focus on sustainable solutions such as electric vehicles.
In his welcoming remarks, Minister of Transport and Logistics Alemu Sime highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing infrastructure projects, emphasizing the government’s efforts to improve regional connectivity. He pointed to key developments, including the Addis Ababa-Djibouti railway, investments in renewable energy, Ethiopian Airlines’ contribution to air transport, and the country’s push toward electric vehicles.
The event brought together over 1,000 participants, including policymakers, development partners, private sector representatives, civil society, and media, to discuss Africa’s infrastructure challenges. The week featured more than 40 sessions, underscoring the importance of innovative financing and regional integration.
PIDA serves as a strategic framework to address Africa’s infrastructure gaps, focusing on strengthening transport, energy, water, and ICT sectors. This program is crucial for driving economic growth, attracting investment, and improving living standards.
The 8th PIDA Week was a resounding success, marking a significant step forward in infrastructure development across the continent. The event reinforced a renewed commitment to infrastructure advancement and a long-term vision for sustainable development. Ethiopia’s proactive approach to infrastructure development continues to solidify its position as a leader in shaping Africa’s infrastructure future.
Ethiopia and EU Strengthen Partnership Through High-Level Talks
Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, met with the European Union (EU) Political and Security Committee (PSC), led by Ambassador Delphine Pronk, Chairperson of the EU PSC and Deputy Director of Political Affairs at the EU External Action Service (EEAS), on Friday (November 22). The meeting aimed at deepening the longstanding partnership between Ethiopia and the EU.
This high-level discussion reaffirmed the mutual commitment to strengthening cooperation in political, economic, and security matters. It also set the stage for an enhanced collaborative framework that could shape both regional and global dynamics. The meeting highlights Ethiopia’s growing importance in the Horn of Africa and the EU’s recognition of the country as a key partner in promoting peace, stability, and development across the continent.
At the heart of the discussions was Ethiopia’s significant progress across a range of sectors. Minister Gedion highlighted the country’s ambitious economic reforms, which are designed to attract foreign direct investment, diversify the economy, and modernize Ethiopia’s industrial base. He urged the EU to engage more actively in these reforms, recognizing the potential for mutually beneficial collaboration.
Additionally, Ethiopia’s efforts in national dialogue and transitional justice were acknowledged, particularly the initiation of the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) program. The DDR initiative aims to reintegrate over 75,000 former combatants as an initial step, marking a critical success in peacebuilding and highlighting Ethiopia’s vital role in regional stability.
Ambassador Pronk praised Ethiopia’s progress and reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting these efforts. She emphasized shared priorities such as economic development, green energy, migration, and peacebuilding. Ambassador Pronk also noted that Ethiopia’s stability is crucial not only for the country but for the broader African continent and European security, particularly in addressing terrorism and piracy. This strategic collaboration with Ethiopia reflects a deeper, more comprehensive partnership aimed at tackling regional challenges and advancing shared goals.
The meeting also addressed ongoing challenges in the partnership, notably the EU’s visa restrictions on Ethiopia. Minister Gedion expressed regret over these measures while reaffirming Ethiopia’s commitment to addressing migration issues and fully implementing the Agreement on Admission Procedures. He called for the lifting of visa restrictions as a step toward fully normalizing relations.
Ambassador Pronk, representing the EU, emphasized the importance of continued cooperation to address migration and other shared concerns. Ultimately, the meeting demonstrated that, despite the challenges, both Ethiopia and the EU are committed to navigating them constructively, working together toward a peaceful and prosperous future.
The EU Political and Security Committee (PSC), under Ambassador Pronk’s leadership, plays a crucial role in shaping the EU’s foreign and security policies. The PSC’s engagement with Ethiopia signals a deeper recognition of the country’s importance in regional security.
The discussions marked a significant moment in the evolving relationship between Ethiopia and the EU, with both sides emphasizing their shared vision for the future. Moving forward, the revitalized Ethiopia-EU partnership is poised to address pressing issues such as regional security, economic development, and migration, while also strengthening the broader EU-Africa relationship.
Partners Welcome Government’s Commitment to Pretoria Peace Agreement through DDR Implementation
International partners, through a Joint Press Release, commended the Ethiopian government’s efforts in initiating the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Rehabilitation (DDR) Program on Saturday (November 23).
The announcement was made in the wake of the launch of the demobilisation phase of the Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration (DDR) process in Mekelle, Tigray, on the aforementioned date. According to the African Union, “Demobilization is defined as the formal and controlled discharge of active combatants from armed forces or other armed groups.”
On the occasion, international partners credited with the statement joined the officials from the National Rehabilitation Commission (NRC), the Tigray Interim Regional Administration (TIRA) and other stakeholder institutions. The launching event was also graced by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos.
The international partners collective, including the African Union, Canada, the European Union, India, Italy, Japan, Norway, the Republic of Korea, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States, welcomed the historic milestone as “a critical step towards lasting peace and reconciliation in the country.” Jointly administered by the NRC and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), this massive national exercise is expected to demobilise close to 372,000 ex-combatants, which, the statement stated, is “the largest DDR effort globally and significant in its scale.”
During the first phase, close to 75,000 combatants will be demobilised, thereby effecting their formal discharge from any military engagement and return, as it were, to ordinary civilian life while being supported with financial, medical, and mental health amenities.
The launch of the demobilisation state of the DDR process, according to the international partners, “represents a beacon of hope for Ethiopia and a model for collaborative global peacebuilding” and “demonstrates Ethiopia’s determination to achieve lasting peace and is supported by a coalition of nations committed to building a stable and prosperous future for all Ethiopians.”
Conducted in light of the second anniversary of the signing of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA), this achievement “reflects an important step forward in translating the agreement’s commitments into tangible actions that promote reconciliation, stability, and development across the nation,” the statement noted.
It is to be recalled that the Federal Government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), as stipulated under Article 6 of the peace deal, have agreed “to undertake the disarmament of the heavy armaments of the TPLF combatants as a matter of priority” and that “the demobilization and reintegration plan will consider the Tigray Region’s law-and-order needs.”
The NRC, established by Council of Ministers Regulation 525/2015, later amended as by Regulation No. 415/2016, in this regard, plays a crucial role in facilitating the much-needed exercise. Most importantly, the Commission has the responsibility “to design, plan, implement, and monitor the demobilization, rehabilitation and reintegration of former combatants across Ethiopia” and aspires to “seeing lasting peace and development in the country” through an all-inclusive process cognizant of the complexity and sense of urgency that the process demands of national and international stakeholders.
Regional Consultation on Financing for Development in Africa Held in Addis Ababa
Ethiopia hosted the regional consultation for the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Africa on Monday (November 18). Organized by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), the event provided a platform for African stakeholders to align their perspectives and craft a unified African voice on critical issues related to financing the continent’s development.
State Minister of Finance, Semereta Sewasew, opened the consultation emphasizing Africa’s unique challenges in bridging financing gaps. She outlined key priorities, including breaking the cycle of excessive debt servicing, ensuring sustainable debt management, addressing macroeconomic imbalances, and harnessing innovative climate financing mechanisms to meet Africa’s urgent needs for mitigation, adaptation, and resilience building.
The State Minister also underscored the importance of international cooperation, particularly through Official Development Assistance (ODA), while urging African countries to enhance their capacity for Domestic Resource Mobilization (DRM). She highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing reforms in DRM, including tax reforms, strengthening public-private partnerships, and operationalizing the Securities Exchange to increase local resource mobilization.
UNECA Executive Secretary Claver Gatete, during the opening session, noted that Africa faces an annual financing gap of $1.3 trillion to achieve its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. He stressed the need for a unified African response, emphasizing critical measures such as improved public financial management, enhanced domestic resource mobilization, increased access to concessional loans, climate finance, and the development of private sector initiatives and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
He further highlighted the importance of prioritizing investments in infrastructure, energy, transport, and human capital as part of the response to Africa’s financing challenges. He reiterated that collective efforts and strategic partnerships are essential for addressing the continent’s growing financing needs.
The consultation served as a pivotal forum for fostering collaboration and creating a shared African agenda to tackle systemic financing challenges, paving the way for a stronger and more sustainable development trajectory for the continent.
Leave Your Comments Here