The inaugural Economic Development Assembly: Advancing Africa’s Future, set to take place on October 9 and 10, 2024, promises to be a landmark event for the African continent.
Hosted in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, the two-day gathering will bring together influential global and African leaders, private sector executives, artists, and advocates to address barriers to sustainable economic growth across Africa.
The assembly aims to mobilize significant financial investments from G20 countries to support the World Bank’s IDA21 replenishment, focusing on advancing equitable development for Africa.
Among the high-profile speakers are H.E. Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, President of Mauritania and current Chairperson of the African Union; H.E. Nana Akufo-Addo, President of Ghana; and H.E. Alassane Ouattara, President of Côte d’Ivoire.
These leaders will be joined by other heads of state and government, including H.E. Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone, and Eve Bazaïba, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for the Environment of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, along with global development and financial experts.
A notable highlight of the assembly is the participation of Nat Kwabena Adisi (Bola Ray), the CEO of EIB Network and Empire Group. Bola Ray, renowned for his influential role in Africa’s media and entertainment industries and championing the entrepreneurship drive with his ‘Entrepreneurship with Bola Ray’ program, will speak alongside other leaders and prominent figures from the private sector and international development organizations.
His involvement underscores the private sector’s significant role in fostering sustainable development and advancing economic opportunities across the continent.
Bola Ray will also moderate a discussion on the topic “Beyond the World Bank: Catalyzing Private Investment in Africa
Exploring the critical role of private investment in complementing IDA’s efforts to finance development in Sub-Saharan Africa.”
The panel will emphasize innovative financing mechanisms and the policy frameworks needed to attract private capital. It will also highlight successful projects and strategies to drive new investment commitments in key sectors like infrastructure, energy, and technology.
It will feature Hafou Toure, Tshepo Mahloele, Sérgio Pimenta, and Jessica Davis Ba
The Economic Development Assembly is presented by Global Citizen and Bridgewater Associates, in partnership with the Government of Côte d’Ivoire and Harith General Partners. The event is also supported by Global Citizen’s global partner Citi. The gathering aims to foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders to overcome developmental barriers, especially in areas such as climate resilience, infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
Other key speakers include Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank, and Nir Bar Dea, CEO of Bridgewater Associates. Alain-Richard Donwahi, President of COP15, will also be addressing critical climate issues at the event. Prominent African leaders such as Charlot Magayi, Founder & CEO of Mukuru Clean Stoves, and Sérgio Pimenta, Regional Vice President for Africa at the International Finance Corporation, will share their insights into the role of innovation and investment in driving Africa’s development forward.
The assembly will feature performances from talented artists Falana and Jeune Lio, adding a cultural dimension to the event, which is set to attract global attention. The event will be hosted by Sophy Aiida, a Cameroonian actress and television presenter known for her humanitarian work and advocacy.
This prestigious gathering will provide a unique platform for fostering dialogue and action towards creating long-term economic growth and reducing inequalities on the continent. As discussions unfold, the assembly will set the stage for a coordinated effort to achieve a future where Africa can thrive in a rapidly changing global economy.
For more information on the Economic Development Assembly and the participants, visit Global Citizen.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM
