Twenty-fourth Meeting of the Committee of Experts of the Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning and Economic Development: opening Statement by K.Y. Amoako, Executive Secretary

Abstract

This Opening Statement delivered by K.Y. Amoako, Executive Secretary at the Twenty-fourth meeting of the Committee of Experts of the Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning and Economic Development. Mr. Amoako, on his remarks highlighted that, Our themes have been timely, and our agendas have often been packed. However, repeatedly this Committee has deliberated on critical matters with focus and energy and thus significantly helped to inform the dialogue at ministerial level. There's expanded voice and accountability. Our press is much freer. New and various avenues are being created to allow citizens to participate in the political process and express their demands, without fear of retribution. ECA has worked hard to ensure that the overriding objective of gender equality is placed at the center of economic and political discussions at the highest political and policy-making levels. There are currently several initiatives around and momentum has been building for change for some time, as it is clear that the enhanced HIPC initiative is inadequate, particularly when viewed through the prism of Africa's MDG financing needs.