Uganda is gearing up to host the 11th Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD) from April 6 to 11, with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni reaffirming the country’s readiness for the high-level conference.
Museveni expressed enthusiasm about engaging with African technical experts and political leaders, emphasizing the need for better management and prioritization of Africa’s financial resources. “The money is there; the problem is misuse,” he said.
The President also reflected on Africa’s historical economic struggles, criticizing early African economists for neglecting the cost of doing business. He emphasized the importance of cheap electricity, affordable transport, accessible water, and a skilled workforce in driving economic growth.
“We have everything we need, even with challenges like climate change. For instance, in the UAE, seawater desalination is now being done with nuclear technology instead of osmosis. This means our coastal countries will soon have more access to water,” Museveni added.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja reaffirmed Uganda’s readiness to host the conference, emphasizing the country’s commitment to ensuring its success. “Your Excellency, through the cabinet, we are actively preparing for this very important meeting, and I am confident that Uganda is ready,” she stated.
Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), underscored Africa’s economic and development challenges while calling for innovative solutions to accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 2063.
“We need to develop innovative solutions for sustained economic development. This conference will help us assess where we stand and what we need to do differently to achieve Agenda 2063 and the SDGs,” Gatete said.
Gatete also highlighted the role of regional economic communities in driving Africa’s growth, noting that there are eight recognized regional economic communities in Africa. He emphasized the importance of adding value to Africa’s resources and developing final products locally to achieve industrialization.
The conference, which will bring together policymakers, economists, and development experts, aims to shape a new path for Africa’s economic future.
