Nigeria to host joint ministerial conference on industrialization for inclusive and transformative development in Africa

Abstract

The Seventh Joint AU Conference of Ministers of Economy and Finance and ECA Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning and Economic Development will be held on 27 March to 1 April 2014, Abuja, Nigeria on the theme, “Industrialization for Inclusive and Transformative Development in Africa”. The Conference will aim to provide a platform for policy makers to articulate concrete proposals to catalyze implementation of the Accelerated Industrial Development of Africa (AIDA) and increase commitment and actions to advance Africa’s industrial development agenda. While countries are making concerted efforts in this regard, experts recognize that the road to industrialization is paved with a number of challenges, such as productivity and competitiveness necessary to take advantage of globalization and transform economies. Further, lack of infrastructure and technological advancement are constraints to doing business and undermines productivity.