The appointment was announced in a statement issued on Wednesday by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the minister.

AfDB also confirmed that a Letter of Intent between the bank and Nigeria will be signed during its Annual Meetings in Brazzaville on 28 May 2026.

The programme is designed to enhance Africa’s aviation sector through investment, regulatory alignment and skills development.

AfDB said the selection of Festus Keyamo shows Nigeria’s role in ongoing aviation reforms and its growing influence in regional air transport policy.

In the statement, the bank also set out the funding structure and ambition of the initiative. “This is the Integrated Aviation Transformation Program for Africa (IATP) for which it has earmarked the sum of $7 billion (Seven Billion Dollars),” the statement read in part.

The initiative will draw funding from private investors, institutional capital and concessional sources. AfDB said the aim is to improve connectivity across the continent and make air transport more efficient and competitive.

Africa’s aviation sector is heavily underdeveloped relative to global demand. African airlines account for less than 3% of global air traffic, despite the continent making up close to 18% of the world’s population.

The gap has long been an issue of concern around limited connectivity, high operating costs and weak route integration between countries.

AfDB’s programme focuses on three main areas.

First, it targets the full operationalisation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), an African Union initiative under Agenda 2063. SAATM is meant to open up African skies, reduce restrictions on air travel between member states and improve regional connectivity.

Second, it aims to strengthen aviation safety oversight and regulatory systems. Many African countries still operate under fragmented safety frameworks, which affect airline performance and investor confidence.

Third, it focuses on developing aviation skills and workforce capacity. The bank said this is necessary to support long-term growth in airline operations, airport management and regulatory institutions across the continent.

Nigeria is one of 34 African countries that have signed up to SAATM. These countries represent more than 80% of Africa’s aviation market.

However, implementation has remained uneven, with slow progress on full liberalisation of air travel between participating states.

AfDB officials said the transformation plan also seeks to improve access to aircraft financing and upgrade airport infrastructure. It is also aligned with efforts to make aviation development more climate-conscious while encouraging private sector participation.

Keyamo’s appointment places Nigeria at the centre of continental discussions on aviation reform. The AfDB said it selected him based on what it described as Nigeria’s policy direction and reform efforts within its aviation sector.

Nigeria has recently pushed changes around airport infrastructure, airline regulation and operational standards, building itself to become a regional hub in West Africa.

The appointment is also expected to strengthen coordination between African states as the AfDB pushes for a more unified aviation market.

Stakeholders have long argued that fragmented air routes and high inter-country travel costs continue to limit trade, tourism and economic integration across the continent.

With the Brazzaville meeting approaching, attention will turn to how quickly member states move from policy commitments to implementation.

The signing of the Letter of Intent is expected to formalise Nigeria’s role in the programme and set out the next phase of engagement between AfDB and participating countries.

The conference is a premier continental gathering that will spotlight the critical role of women entrepreneurs in advancing Africa’s sustainable economic transformation.

With the theme “Rethink, Reinvent, Regenerate: Women Entrepreneurs as Architects of Global Africa’s Sustainable Future”, the event is expected to attract over 3,000 participants, including senior government officials, investors, development finance institutions, private-sector leaders, policymakers, innovators, and women entrepreneurs from across Africa and the global diaspora.

Positioned as a high-impact platform for dialogue and action, the conference will foster strategic partnerships, unlock investment opportunities, and accelerate scalable solutions that strengthen women-led enterprises.

Through executive panels, technical workshops, enterprise showcases, and curated networking sessions, participants will engage in shaping pathways toward inclusive growth, climate resilience, and sustainable prosperity across the continent.

Efe Ukala, founder of ImpactHER, emphasized the urgency of advancing women’s economic leadership:

“Africa’s economic future depends on the full participation of women. When women entrepreneurs are equipped with capital, markets, and the right ecosystems, they drive innovation, expand industries, and build resilient communities. This conference is designed to catalyze partnerships and mobilize the resources required to scale women-led businesses across Africa and beyond.”

Participation is fully sponsored, reflecting a shared commitment by convening partners to expand access to opportunity and reduce structural barriers facing women entrepreneurs.

Attendees will gain access to tailored business advisory services, brand development support, digital growth tools, and exclusive travel benefits for international participants.

Beyond convening stakeholders, the conference aims to deepen cross-border collaboration and attract investment into high-potential women-led ventures, reinforcing Africa’s position within the global sustainability and economic development agenda.

ImpactHER is a nonprofit organization dedicated to closing the gender financing gap by enabling African women entrepreneurs to access capital, scale their businesses, and participate competitively in local and global markets.

Through partnerships, capacity-building programs, and digital innovation, ImpactHER continues to advance inclusive economic growth across Africa.

The partnership will strengthen the planning, delivery, and sustainability of the Africa CDC International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA) and other flagship public health convenings at a time of heightened demand for coordinated health leadership across the continent.

Africa CDC Director-General Dr Jean Kaseya and Informa Markets President for Middle East, India, Türkiye & Africa Mr Peter Hall signed the agreement, which combines Africa CDC’s scientific leadership with Informa’s global expertise in large-scale event management.

The goal is to enhance the quality, reach, and long-term sustainability of Africa’s premier public health platforms.

“This partnership reinforces Africa CDC’s commitment to strengthening continental ownership of public health priorities,” said Dr Kaseya.

“CPHIA has become a critical forum for African experts and leaders to set the continent’s health security agenda. Informa Markets’ support will help expand the conference’s reach and impact while preserving Africa CDC’s full scientific, strategic, and convening leadership.”

Under this partnership, Africa CDC reinforces the institution’s central role in advancing continental priorities, including its 2023–2027 Strategic Plan and the Africa Health Security and Sovereignty (AHSS) agenda.

Informa Markets, a global leader in exhibitions and organiser of World Health Expo, will leverage its global reach, industry expertise and experience to elevate CPHIA’s scale, visibility and impact across Africa and internationally.   

Peter Hall, president for Middle East, India, Türkiye & Africa at Informa Markets, added:

“This partnership reflects a strong alignment of vision between Informa Markets and Africa CDC. Drawing on over 50 years’ experience delivering trusted global healthcare events, Informa Markets is proud to support CPHIA’s continued growth. Together, we will ensure CPHIA 2026 delivers lasting value for Africa’s public health ecosystem”.

Since its inaugural edition in December 2021, Africa CDC has convened four editions of CPHIA, each building momentum as the continent’s leading forum for public health dialogue, policy alignment, and scientific exchange.

The conference has brought together Heads of State, Ministers of Health, researchers, frontline health workers, private-sector leaders, and global institutions, cementing CPHIA’s role as a central platform for shaping Africa’s public health agenda.

The fifth edition, CPHIA 2026, will be held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with thousands of delegates expected to attend.

With the continent’s ambitious Agenda 2063 as a guiding framework, aspiring entrepreneurs are seeking ways to leverage the opportunities presented by the digital economy to propel continental prosperity.

Central to this endeavour are key elements such as artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and innovative approaches that can pave the way for success in the fast-evolving landscape of African entrepreneurship.

As entrepreneurs navigate the digital economy in line with Agenda 2063, they can tap into a multitude of resources and organizations for support. From the African Union’s economic development initiatives to regional economic communities, incubators, and online platforms, a wealth of opportunities exist for entrepreneurs to access mentorship, funding, and networking within the vibrant African startup ecosystem.

By harnessing these resources and adopting innovative strategies, aspiring entrepreneurs can position themselves for success in building sustainable businesses that contribute to the continent’s long-term growth.

Entrepreneurship in the digital economy in Africa is an area of immense potential and growth. As technology continues to advance and digital tools become more accessible, the opportunities for African entrepreneurs to innovate and create sustainable businesses are increasing.

However, several key challenges and considerations need to be addressed to fully harness the potential of entrepreneurship in the digital economy in Africa.

One of the key issues facing African entrepreneurs in the digital economy is access to technology and infrastructure.

While mobile phone penetration is high in many African countries, access to reliable internet connectivity and affordable devices can still be a barrier for many entrepreneurs. Improving access to technology and infrastructure is essential to support the growth of digital entrepreneurs in Africa.

Another challenge is building the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the digital economy. Many African entrepreneurs may lack the technical skills required to take full advantage of digital tools and platforms. Investing in education and training programs that focus on digital skills and entrepreneurship can help to bridge this gap and support the growth of a digitally literate workforce in Africa.

The future of work in the digital economy is also a key consideration for African entrepreneurs. As automation and artificial intelligence continue to reshape the labour market, African entrepreneurs need to adapt and innovate to stay competitive.

This may involve developing new business models, creating products and services that leverage technology, and embracing new ways of working.

Sustainability is another important factor to consider in the context of entrepreneurship in the digital economy in Africa. As the impacts of climate change become more pronounced, there is a growing need for businesses to operate in a sustainable and environmentally conscious manner.

African entrepreneurs have an opportunity to lead the way in creating innovative and sustainable businesses that not only drive economic growth but also contribute to environmental and social goals.

As such, entrepreneurship in the digital economy in Africa holds immense potential for driving economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and promoting sustainable development.

By addressing key challenges such as access to technology, building digital skills, adapting to the future of work, and promoting sustainability, African entrepreneurs can unlock the full potential of the digital economy and drive positive change across the continent.

With a particular focus on Africa, how has the implementation of Agenda 2063 influenced the landscape of economic development and sustainability, particularly for aspiring entrepreneurs in the digital economy?

Agenda 2063 is a strategic framework for the socio-economic transformation of Africa, developed by the African Union to guide the continent’s development over the next 50 years.

The agenda aims to accelerate Africa’s development by focusing on key areas such as infrastructure development, industrialization, trade, governance, and human capital development. While it has been in application for several years, there have been both successes and challenges in terms of its impact and advocacy.

One of the key impacts of Agenda 2063 is the increased focus on regional integration and cooperation. The agenda emphasizes the importance of African countries working together to achieve common goals and address shared challenges.

This has led to initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to create a single market for goods and services across the continent. Regional integration efforts under Agenda 2063 have the potential to boost economic growth, trade, and investment in Africa.

Another impact of Agenda 2063 is the increased focus on infrastructure development. The agenda prioritizes the development of key infrastructure such as transportation networks, energy systems, and ICT infrastructure to support economic growth and development.

Investments in infrastructure under Agenda 2063 have the potential to improve connectivity, reduce trade barriers, and enhance competitiveness in African economies.

However, there are also challenges and limitations in the implementation of Agenda 2063. One key challenge is the issue of financing.

Many of the initiatives and projects outlined in Agenda 2063 require significant financial resources to implement. Mobilizing the necessary funding from both domestic and external sources remains a major challenge for African countries.

Additionally, there is a need for better coordination and alignment of efforts among African countries and institutions to fully realize the potential of Agenda 2063. Improved governance, transparency, and collaboration are needed to ensure that the objectives of the agenda are effectively implemented.

Essentially, while there have been significant efforts and achievements in implementing Agenda 2063, there is still work to be done to fully realize its transformative potential.

Continued advocacy, political will, and commitment from African governments and stakeholders will be essential to ensure that Agenda 2063 leads to tangible and sustainable development outcomes for the continent.

One can then ask, how can the principles of Agenda 2063 be effectively integrated with entrepreneurship practices in the digital economy to maximize opportunities and overcome challenges for the continent’s long-term prosperity and sustainability?

Implementing entrepreneurship approaches in the digital economy in line with the provisions of Agenda 2063 offers numerous opportunities for promoting economic growth, job creation, innovation, and sustainable development in Africa. However, there are also significant challenges that must be navigated to harness the full potential of entrepreneurship in the digital economy. Here are some opportunities, challenges, and best approaches to address them:

Opportunities:

1. Market Access: The digital economy provides African entrepreneurs with access to global markets, allowing them to reach a wider customer base and expand their businesses beyond local borders.

2. Innovation and Creativity: Digital technologies enable entrepreneurs to develop new products and services, improve business processes, and drive innovation in various sectors of the economy.

3. Job Creation: Entrepreneurship in the digital economy has the potential to create new job opportunities, particularly for young people who are tech-savvy and can leverage digital skills to start and grow their businesses.

4. Financial Inclusion: Digital payment systems and fintech solutions can improve financial inclusion by providing access to financial services for underserved populations, enabling more people to participate in economic activities.

Challenges:

1. Digital Divide: Unequal access to digital infrastructure, such as internet connectivity and technology devices, can limit the participation of entrepreneurs in the digital economy, particularly in rural and remote areas.

2. Skills Gap: Many entrepreneurs lack the necessary digital skills and knowledge to leverage technology effectively in their businesses, hindering their ability to compete in the digital economy.

3. Regulatory challenges: Complex and outdated regulations may stifle innovation and entrepreneurship in the digital economy, creating barriers to entry for startups and hindering their growth.

Best Approaches:

1. Capacity Building: Providing training and mentorship programs to entrepreneurs to enhance their digital skills, business acumen, and innovation capabilities.

2. Access to Finance: Facilitating access to affordable financing options, including venture capital, angel investors, and crowdfunding, to support entrepreneurial ventures in the digital economy.

3. Regulatory Reforms: Streamlining regulations and creating a conducive environment for digital entrepreneurship by promoting ease of doing business, protecting intellectual property rights, and ensuring data privacy and cybersecurity.

4. Collaboration and Networking: Encouraging collaboration between entrepreneurs, government agencies, academia, and industry stakeholders to foster innovation, share best practices, and create synergies for growth.

By leveraging these opportunities, addressing challenges, and implementing the best approaches, Africa can unlock the full potential of entrepreneurship in the digital economy in line with the provisions of Agenda 2063.

This will contribute to continental prosperity, sustainable development, and the realization of Africa’s vision for a prosperous and integrated continent by 2063.

In light of these considerations, how can we strategically position and effectively leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cybersecurity within the context of Agenda 2063 and digital entrepreneurship to advance our continental goals? Let’s delve deeper into this critical intersection to uncover comprehensive strategies and solutions for sustainable progress.

Positioning AI and cybersecurity within the context of entrepreneurship in the digital economy in Africa is critical for leveraging the full potential of digital technologies while ensuring the security and privacy of online activities. Here are some key considerations for positioning AI and cybersecurity in this landscape:

Leveraging AI for Innovation and Efficiency:

– African entrepreneurs can harness the power of AI to drive innovation, automate processes, and enhance decision-making in their businesses.

– AI applications such as machine learning, natural language processing, and predictive analytics can help entrepreneurs gain insights, optimize operations, and deliver personalized experiences to customers.

Addressing Skills Gaps and Adoption Challenges:

– Promoting AI education and training programs to equip entrepreneurs with the necessary skills to leverage AI technologies effectively in their businesses.

– Encouraging collaboration between industry, academia, and government to foster AI adoption, knowledge sharing, and technology transfer.

Enhancing Cybersecurity Measures:

– Implementing robust cybersecurity measures to protect digital assets, sensitive data, and online transactions from cyber threats.

– Promoting awareness of cybersecurity best practices among entrepreneurs, employees, and customers to prevent cyber attacks and data breaches.

Regulatory Framework and Compliance:

– Establishing clear regulations and standards for AI applications and cybersecurity practices to ensure ethical use of AI and data protection.

– Ensuring compliance with data privacy laws, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the African Union Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection, to safeguard personal information and build trust with customers.

Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing:

– Fostering collaboration between AI experts, cybersecurity professionals, government agencies, and industry stakeholders to exchange knowledge, share resources, and address emerging cybersecurity threats.

– Encouraging public-private partnerships to develop cybersecurity solutions, conduct research, and build cybersecurity capacity in Africa.

By positioning AI and cybersecurity as integral components of entrepreneurship in the digital economy in Africa, entrepreneurs can unlock new opportunities for growth, innovation, and competitiveness while mitigating cybersecurity risks and safeguarding digital assets.

This strategic focus on AI and cybersecurity will not only drive sustainable development and prosperity but also contribute to building a more resilient and secure digital ecosystem in Africa.

Consequently, amid the focus on implementing Agenda 2063 as a framework for sustainability and economic development, where can emerging entrepreneurs seek assistance and guidance within the digital economy landscape?

This crucial inquiry prompts us to explore the support systems available to aspiring entrepreneurs navigating the complexities of a rapidly evolving market.

Aspiring entrepreneurs seeking support in the digital economy within the framework of Agenda 2063 can turn to various resources and organizations for guidance, mentorship, and funding opportunities. Here are some key avenues for help:

1. African Union:

– The African Union plays a central role in advancing Agenda 2063 and promoting economic development in Africa. Entrepreneurs can access information, resources, and programs through the AU’s Department of Economic Development, Trade, Industry, and Mining.

2. National Governments and Ministries:

– Many African countries have established entrepreneurship and innovation programs to support startups and small businesses. Entrepreneurs can reach out to their respective governments and relevant ministries for information on available resources and initiatives.

3. African Development Bank (AfDB):

– The AfDB offers various funding mechanisms, technical assistance, and capacity-building programs for entrepreneurs in Africa. Aspiring entrepreneurs can explore the AfDB’s initiatives focused on sustainable development, innovation, and economic growth.

4. Regional Economic Communities:

– Regional economic communities such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the East African Community (EAC) provide platforms for collaboration, networking, and access to regional markets for entrepreneurs in Africa.

5. Incubators and Accelerators:

– Entrepreneurship incubators and accelerators can provide aspiring entrepreneurs with mentorship, training, and networking opportunities to launch and grow their businesses in the digital economy. Examples include the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Program and the MEST Africa incubator.

6. Innovation Hubs and Co-working Spaces:

– Innovation hubs and co-working spaces offer entrepreneurs a collaborative environment to work, network, and access support services such as mentorship, training, and access to funding opportunities. Examples include iHub in Kenya and CcHUB in Nigeria.

7. Angel Investors and Venture Capitalists:

– Aspiring entrepreneurs can seek funding from angel investors and venture capitalists who are interested in supporting startups in the digital economy. Platforms like VC4A and AngelList connect entrepreneurs with potential investors.

8. Online Platforms and Communities:

– Online platforms and communities such as StartUp Africa and Africa Tech Summit provide information, resources, and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs in the digital economy. Engaging with these platforms can help aspiring entrepreneurs stay informed and connected within the African startup ecosystem.

By leveraging these resources and organizations, aspiring entrepreneurs can access the support, mentorship, funding, and networks needed to thrive in the digital economy within the context of Agenda 2063’s goals of sustainability and economic development in Africa.

In conclusion, as Africa embarks on a journey towards achieving the goals of Agenda 2063, entrepreneurship in the digital economy emerges as a critical driver of continental prosperity and sustainability.

By embracing innovative technologies like AI, prioritizing cybersecurity measures, and leveraging the wealth of resources available, aspiring entrepreneurs have the tools they need to thrive and make a meaningful impact on the African economy.

Through collaboration, creativity, and a commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, Africa’s future generations of business leaders can turn challenges into opportunities and navigate the complexities of ​the digital economy with resilience and determination.

Ultimately, by harnessing the power of entrepreneurship within the context of Agenda 2063, Africa can unlock its full potential and pave the way for a prosperous and thriving future.

This is particularly concerning considering that a substantial portion of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), estimated at 70-80%, is potentially recyclable.

It has been projected that by 2050, the volume of waste will triple from 174 million tonnes per year as of 2016 to approximately 516 million tonnes per year across the African continent. 

This is majorly due to major changes Africa is experiencing, through ever-expanding urbanization, growth in population and increase in economic activities. 

These factors present various reasons for concern, as for a growing continent, the need for recycling all the waste being produced becomes increasingly important.

A whopping 19 of the world’s 50 biggest dumpsites are found in Africa and are mostly located in Sub-Saharan Africa. Imported goods account for a large portion of these generated waste products as many companies find Africa as a good location to send their products, containers, packaging and all. 

Nigeria is one of the leading producers of waste in the African continent, according to the Yale Center for Environmental Law and Policy, with 32 million metric tonnes of waste annually. 

Nigeria also falls among the 30 countries with the worst waste management practices out of 180 countries in the world. Accounting for a growing population of over 200 million people, these numbers are only expected to rise in the coming years. 

Being a continent that barely recycles 4 percent of its total waste Africa finds itself in a serious mess, literally. The need to have everyone onboard to tackle this problem takes priority and should be handled by all parties involved, from the government to global unions, corporations, manufacturers, and industries.

Leading the charge for this discussion at the World Trade Organisation’s Trade and Environment Week from the 7th to 11th of October, FREEE Recycle, the Nigerian integrated waste recycling and manufacturing company, proposed an initiative that was in line with this year’s edition, “Trade for Clean Energy Transition for All”. 

Addressing the WTO at the high-level session on “the challenge of managing the end-of-life cycle of imported tyres into Nigeria,” Mrs. Ifedolapo Runsewe, managing director, FREEE Recycle, stressed the need for policies and implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and the need to repatriate EPR funds to fill the technology gap in developing countries.

“There is a need for programs to subsidize and exempt recycling equipment from import duties and tax exemptions for purchasing recycling equipment. For the Nigerian economy and indeed Africa to successfully be part of the recycling conversation there is a pressing need for affordable recycling materials and patient financing for recycling operations. Developing countries tend to be hit worst of all in the amount of waste being produced and deposited and there is the urgency to support clean energy transition for these regions”.

The conference presented the delegates from FREEE Recycle the opportunity to showcase their green products all made from recycled rubber tyres. 

FREEE also had the privilege of meeting and introducing the company and products to the Director General of the WTO Mrs Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. 

Products were showcased to the Director General, while highlighting the impact being made in Nigeria within the 4 years of operation. 

The Director General further expressed her satisfaction and happiness with the products and the impact being made by FREEE Recycle to redefine waste management in Africa by transforming waste into valuable resources while creating economic opportunities for local communities.

While leading the charge on the global stage, FREEE Recycle is also championing the Recycle narrative locally through its ongoing commitment to building a sustainable future.

This is seen in their recent partnership with Access Bank through the FREEE Impact Foundation, launching eco-friendly playgrounds and the production of over 4,500 sandals for students at various schools across Ibadan. These playgrounds and sandals were produced from recycled discarded tyres. 

The project provides children with eco-friendly footwear encouraging improved school attendance, enhanced academic performance, and better health outcomes for the children. The playgrounds guarantee safe and fun spaces to play while promoting environmental sustainability through waste repurposing. 

Reinforcing FREEE Recycles’ commitment to a better, safer environment, encouraging socio-economic growth. Additionally, this initiative reinforces our commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 4 on Quality Education and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals. 

The company remains committed to making a change in Nigeria and the African continent through an innovative approach to waste management, targeted partnerships and social impact.

In transforming waste into valuable resources and creating economic opportunities, the company is paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future for Africa.

This was made known at the 2024 International Women’s Day celebration organized by ImpactHER, a foremost non-profit organization with a mandate for empowering African female entrepreneurs by bridging the gender business financing gap so as to help them realize their full economic potentials in partnership with the African Union, ToolUp, BRAVE Women, GIZ and Lotus Bank.

The training had in attendance over 400 female entrepreneurs.

In her remarks, Efe Ukala, founder, ImpactHER, urged the women to forge a strong bond of unity, pull resources together and serve as a torch bearer in their various business enterprises. She explained that ImpactHER is an inclusion platform that seeks to help female entrepreneurs become the best version of themselves.

She said:

“Inspiring inclusion is more than just a theme for International Women’s Day. It is a guiding light for us all, especially the vibrant community of African women entrepreneurs. It means creating spaces where every woman’s voice can echo with strength, where her ideas can flourish without boundaries and where her dreams are nurtured by the collective support of a community that sees no limit to what she can achieve. It means each of us committing to lift as we climb ensuring that our success is not a solitary journey but a shared voyage that paves the way for more women to step into their power”.

“For this training, we had a slot for 250 women, but today, we have over 400 women in attendance. These women came from all parts of Lagos, Ibadan, Ogun State and even Benin Republic to learn. This shows that women across Nigeria and even Africa, truly need platforms like this where they can learn, network and receive guidance for sustainable business progression.

“Generally, ImpactHER helps even the most marginalized women to get free resources that allows them to build a more structured and sustainable business. For example, we provide free business registration service, book keeping and accounting so that they can access the finance needed to build their businesses.

“All these, we believe will help foster inclusion to help bridge the gender gap. During the event, we organized a market place with over forty vendors to showcase and sell their items. We appreciate all our sponsors for making this event very successful”.

While delivering her training on the topic- Inspire Inclusion- Unlocking opportunities in exports and empowering African women to conquer the global market, Florence Okafor, Chief Trade Promotion Officer, Nigerian Export Promotion Council urged the women to invest in quality packaging, acquisition of international licences, have an excellent knowledge of the laws guiding imports in various countries and international trade terms.

Another facilitator, Olanrewaju Oniyitan, founder/CEO, W-Holistic Business Solutions who spoke on the topic Growing Wealth: Growing an investable company as a woman founder hinted that people, a wonderful business model, track record of business growth, financial viability, scalability and risk management are some of the pointers needed for female entrepreneurs to become successful in their business.

She said:

“I urge you women to have a rich portfolio of your work and be deliberate about ensuring that you seek the right information always. Regulatory compliance is also very important in accessing finance. You need to be conversant with the tax laws, PAYEE and many more. On a final note, I want you all to know that innovation doesn’t mean you have to go digital or online. Innovation means, you can look at your process, refine it, add something to your product to make it unique and different and you have already innovated. You do not need an app to innovate. Continuous research and development can set your business on the path of innovation”.

In a special message from the U.S. Consulate in Lagos, who was represented by Brittany Orange, to the women, she lamented the low representation of women in the country’s political and economic space and urged the government to provide a level playing field for more women to be active in politics and business.

The pledges included $25 million from the USA, €5 million from the EU, €5 million from Germany, and $4.5 million from Open Society Foundations (OSF).

The United States Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, John Kerry, announced the $25 million injection to launch AAI’s Food Security Accelerator during the “Advancing Adaptation in Africa” event at COP27. 

Africa Adaptation Initiative will leverage the funding to identify adaptation investments with the overall aim of increasing food security and unlocking private capital to invest in innovative solutions to counter the worsening food situation in Africa.

Jochen Flasbarth, State Secretary for the Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development for Germany, pledged €5 million ($5.25 million) during the conference for AAI’s operations as part of the Team Europe Initiatives, with members including the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, France and the European Commission. A further €5 million ($5.25 million) was pledged by Germany to enhance climate adaptation and resilience in Africa. 

Ms. Yamide Dagnet, Director for Climate Justice at The Open Society Foundations pledged an additional $4.5 million by 2025 to support the strengthening of the AAI’s pioneering project on rural communities, ECOVERSE.

At COP27, new pledges totalling $230 million were made for the Adaptation Fund, and the UN Climate Change’s Standing Committee on Finance will be preparing a report on doubling adaptation finance for consideration at COP28 in Dubai next year.

E. Lee James Taylor White, Minister of Water & Forests, the Sea and Environment of Gabon, commented: “Catalyzing adaptation action on the African continent is now more necessary and urgent than ever. Our priority at the Africa Adaptation Initiative is to continue highlighting the need to step up adaptation funding across the board. There is a critical need to bring meaningful finance and a real commitment to Africa to help people who have done little to contribute to global climate change but are currently most impacted by its effects.”

Commenting on the funding, Ambassador Seyni Nafo, Africa Adaptation Initiative Coordinator, said: “We know that Africa is heating up faster than any other part of the world. It is estimated that African countries will need, at least, $579 billion between 2020 and 2030 to plan and implement the adaptation measures we need, so the urgency of this issue cannot be overstressed.

We would like to thank all our partners, including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Climate Emergency Collaboration Group, the European Union, the Government of Germany, OSF and the USA for supporting our efforts to accelerate adaptation plans and raise awareness of the extensive work needed over the coming years to adapt to the already devastating impacts of climate change on the continent.”

The Africa Industrialization Index (AII) report provides a country-level assessment of 52 African countries’ progress across 19 key indicators. The report will enable African governments to identify comparator countries to benchmark their own industrial performance and identify best practices more effectively.

The African Development Bank, the African Union and UNIDO jointly launched the inaugural edition of the AII on the sidelines of the African Union Summit on Industrialization and Economic Diversification in Niamey, Niger.  

Scoring industrialization across a range of metrics 

The Index’s 19 indicators cover manufacturing performance, capital, labour, business environment, infrastructure, and macroeconomic stability. The index also ranks African countries’ industrialization across three dimensions: performance, direct determinants and indirect determinants. 

Direct determinants include such endowments as capital and labour and how these are deployed to drive industrial development. Indirect determinants include enabling environmental conditions such as macroeconomic stability, sound institutions and infrastructure.

South Africa maintained a very high ranking throughout the 2010-2021 period, followed closely by Morocco, which held second place as of 2022. Rounding out the top six over the period are Egypt, Tunisia, Mauritius, and Eswatini.

Abdu Mukhtar, African Development Bank Director for Industrial and Trade Development, represented the institution at the launch event.  He said that while Africa had shown encouraging progress in industrialization over the 2010-2022 period, the Covid-19 pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine had set back its efforts and highlighted gaps in production systems. “The continent has a unique opportunity to sort out this dependency by further integrating and conquering its own emerging markets.”

He added: “The African Continental Free Trade Area is creating a once-in-a-lifetime single market opportunity of 1.3 billion people and total aggregate consumer and business spending of up to $4 trillion creates an opportunity to enhance their trade and production linkages and finally reap industrial competitiveness from regional integration as other regions have done.” 

The African Development Bank has invested up to $8 billion over the past 5 years under its Industrialize Africa High-5 priority. “In the pharma sector alone, we intend to spend at least $3 billion by 2030,” Mukhtar said. 

Building productive industry will be integral to Africa’s development, offering a path to accelerated structural transformation, creating formal jobs at scale and inclusive growth. However, Africa’s share of global manufacturing has declined to the current level of less than 2%. More proactive industrial policies are seen as critical to reversing the trend, but these are knowledge-intensive and require a detailed understanding of the constraints and opportunities that each country faces.

Manufacturing value-added more important than size of economy

Among the report’s other key findings:

• During the coverage period,  Djibouti, Benin, Mozambique, Senegal, Ethiopia, Guinea Rwanda, Tanzania, Ghana, and Uganda all improved by five or more places in the rankings;
• The top performers are not necessarily those with the biggest economies, but those countries that generate high manufacturing value-added per capita, with a substantial proportion of manufacturing goods bound for export;
• North Africa remains the most advanced African region in industrial development, followed by Southern Africa, Central Africa, West Africa and East Africa.

Synergies with the African Industry Observatory

The Africa Industrialization Index was one of two new tools presented during the event. The second—and complementary— African Industry Observatory, unveiled by UNIDO and the African Union, will serve as a central online knowledge platform to collect, analyze and consolidate the quantitative data needed for qualitative analyses of national, regional and pan-continental industry trends, forecasts and comparisons.  

Chiza Charles Chiumya, the African Union Commission’s Acting Director for Industry, Minerals,  Entrepreneurship & Tourism, said, “These tools are going to greatly enhance our industrial policymaking as well as help to bring in the required focus that industrialization needs both from policymakers as well as the private sector, who will now clearly see where the continent has opportunities.”  Chiumya was representing AU Commissioner for Trade and Industry Albert Muchanga.

“The African Industry Observatory and the Africa Industrialization Index will help consolidate cross-institutional cooperation, strengthen each institution’s policy dialogue influence for accelerating industrial development and an enhanced knowledge of industrial development dynamics,” said Victor Djemba, Chief of UNIDO’s Africa division.

The African Union Extraordinary Summit on Industrialization and Economic Diversification and  African Union Extraordinary Session on the African Continental Free Trade Area are currently taking place in Niamey, Niger, through 25 November 2022. The  Summit’s theme is: Industrializing Africa: Renewed Commitment towards Inclusive and Sustainable Industrialization and Economic Diversification.

Approval for the grant, from the Fund’s regional public goods window, came a few days ahead of the 35th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly, which closed on Sunday in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa.

On the sidelines of the Assembly, President Akinwumi Adesina, African Development Bank, and Dr. Monique Nsanzabaganwa, African Union (AU) Commission Deputy Chair, met on Thursday, 3 February, to discuss the organization’s future and challenges. Nsanzabaganwa expressed the institution’s deep appreciation for the grant.

The grant will contribute to the Institutional Capacity Building for the African Union Project, a program designed to improve the AUC’s capacity to drive Agenda 2063.

Agenda 2063 is the African Union’s vision for “an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.”

It includes programs to boost Africa’s economic growth and development and lead to the rapid transformation of the continent.

In 2017, the AUC launched a comprehensive institutional reform process to make the institution more nimble, efficient and financially self-sufficient.

The project will continue those reforms through upgrading its systems, as well as improving planning, coordination, and service delivery capacities.

Nsanzabaganwa said the funds will cover three main components:  institutional strengthening; policy planning, coordination, and corporate service delivery; and project management.

In addition, it contains important environmental and social safeguards and gender-sensitive considerations.

A portion of the funds would be allocated to the AUC’s Disaster Risk Reduction practices, and Climate Change Adaptation mechanisms, while support for women will include developing the Commission’s Gender and Youth Mainstreaming Guidelines and Scorecard and related activities over and above the support towards the AU’s institutional reform.

The African Development Bank has been a long-term partner to the African Union’s development agenda, supporting programs such as its Development Agency-NEPAD program for infrastructure development in Africa.

It also supports the African Continental Free Trade Area secretariat, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and the Climate for Development in Africa Program.

The total cost of the project is $12.6 million, including an in-kind counterpart contribution from the AU. Success of the project is expected to encourage similar contributions from other development institutions.