Opening plenary address by K.Y. Amoako executive secretary of ECA: African women and economic development

Abstract

This opening plenary address delivered by Mr. K.Y. Amoako Executive Secretary of ECA at the conference of “African Women and Economic Development: Investing in our Future”. Mr. Amoako, on his remarks highlighted that, This conference is a hallmark not only of our 40th anniversary,but of our reform. It is structured to highlight forward-looking issues, to bridge sectors, to foster results-oriented discussions, and to share joy in our work together. Social development in Africa, on an unprecedented scale, will entail major advancement in the wellbeing of all people, particularly the poor. These advances will be brought about through concerted efforts in education, health and pro-poor economic policies. There is serious work to do in implementing the agreements made at the World Summit for Social Development. To focus on these implementation issues ECA in tandem with UNDP will sponsor late this year in Nairobi a regional follow-up meeting to the Summit. We know that an engendered society requires leadership from all sectors: from corporate leaders and the small business owners, from heads of state to heads of government sections, from presidents of civil society organizations to community leaders, and from cultural icons to media editors.