UNECA Executive Secretary Claver Gatete addressed African Union foreign ministers in Addis Ababa, rallying them to mobilize development funds more efficiently and fortify continental integration. This push aims to equip Africa to withstand global economic headwinds effectively.
As the 48th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council kicked off, Gatete highlighted a world in flux: decelerating growth, rising trade barriers, and reconfigured supply lines. The emerging economy revolves around strategic industries, geopolitical tussles, and key resource control.
‘We’re witnessing a reconfiguration of development norms,’ Gatete observed. With pricier capital, reduced aid flows, security woes, and climate threats, external dependencies – raw exports, finished imports, cheap finance – are unsustainable.
He advocated centering growth on Africa’s internal dynamics. Key was exploiting natural resources for higher value.
Gatete proposed a five-pillar strategy: enhanced finance strategies, integrated infrastructure, AfCFTA-driven value chains, market deepening, and tech-data infrastructure buildup.
Held under the AU’s 39th Summit and 2026 theme on sustainable water and sanitation for Agenda 2063, the gathering unites ministers to chart this course.
This clarion call signals Africa’s need for bold, homegrown reforms. By prioritizing these actions, the continent can pivot from vulnerability to vitality, securing a robust economic destiny amid worldwide upheaval.