Accelerating Social Development in Africa for the 21st Century: Statement by Ms. Lalla Ben Barka, deputy executive secretary economic commission for Africa

Abstract

This statement delivered by Ms. Lalla Ben Barka, Deputy Executive Secretary Economic Commission for Africa at the conference on Accelerating Social Development in Africa for the 21st Century. Ms. Barka, on her remarks highlighted that, It is to be recognized that the positive economic growth achievements have not been matched by recovery in the social sector in most countries. A major problem is the fact that per capita GDP growth has been too minuscule to have a significant impact on the social sectors. On the Social Summit objective of moving towards full employment, there has been little progress, except in one or two countries. The HIV/AIDS pandemic, of which Africa bears the greatest burden, has significantly exacerbated the health landscape in recent years. ECA is proud to be working in close partnership with African governments, the private sector and a broad coalition of partners in developing the African Information Society Initiative (AISI).