The 42nd Session of the AUDA-NEPAD, Heads of State and Government Orientation Committee convened today, underscoring the need for African leaders to embrace strategic partnerships to accelerate the continent’s African Union, Agenda 2063.
The virtual session brought together Heads of State and Goovernment, including H.E Dr. William Ruto the President, Republic of Kenya, H.E Dr Lazarus M.Chakwera-Republic of Malawi, H.E Evasriste Ndayishiye, Republic of Burundi, H.E Mr. Abdel Fattah Elsisi-Republic of Egypt, H.E. Evariste Ndayishimiye-Republic of Burundi, H.E Ismail Omar Guelleh-Republic of Djibuoti, H.E Obiang Maigue – Republic of Equitorial Guinea, H.E Bassirou Diomaye Faye-Republic of Senegal, H.E Mahmat Idriss Debey-Republic of Chad, H.E Hakainde Hichelema-Republic of Zambia, H.E Dr Mohammed Al Menfi-Republic of Libya, H.E Paul Biya -Republic of Cameroon, H.E Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, President of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania and Chairperson of the African Union, H.E. Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt and Chairperson of AUDA-NEPAD Heads of State and Government Orientation Committee, H.E Moussa Faki MAHAMAT, Chairperson of the African Union Commission,H.E Nardos Bekelle, CEO of AUDA-NEPAD; and Amb. Dr. Samori Okwiya, CEO of NEPAD/APRM Kenya Secretariat.
In his address, President William Ruto emphasized the need for collective action to drive Africa’s sustainable development, focusing on innovative financing, addressing infrastructure deficits, boosting agricultural productivity, and combating climate change. He called for immediate efforts to tackle infrastructure, agricultural, and climate challenges, highlighting the Energize Africa initiative as a key growth strategy. The President advocated for financing solutions, such as pension funds, private sector investments, and blended models, to bridge funding gaps for large-scale projects like the LAPSSET Corridor. He pointed to the critical infrastructure financing gap and announced that the first three berths at Lamu Port are operational, urging member states to leverage this trade hub.
Additionally, President Ruto emphasized the centrality of agriculture to Africa’s economic growth. He called for continued investment in agricultural development and the implementation of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) to turn policies into actionable results.
As Africa enters the second decade of implementing Agenda 2063, President Ruto urged leaders to focus on action, execution, and tangible outcomes. He also called for improved governance and oversight of the African Union Development Fund to ensure that it remains a central driver of the continent’s long-term development.
In conclusion, President Ruto’s address reinforced the need for decisive leadership, cooperation, and resource mobilization to accelerate Africa’s transformation. His call for a shift from planning to execution emphasizes the urgency of turning Africa’s ambitious development plans into reality.
