Structural transformation should underpin Africa's priorities - ECA Chief

Abstract

As the curtains close on the Millennium Development Goals, Mr. Carlos Lopes has stressed that the intense participation of Africa in defining the new sustainable development agenda paves the way for governments to make critical structural changes in response to socio-economic inequality. Speaking at the ECA ahead of the UN General Assembly this September, Mr. Lopes stated that the new Sustainable Development Agenda must take on board Africa’s development goals and priorities, in particular, the need for innovative ways to finance our future. The Common African Position recognizes rising trends such as population growth and the youth bulge, urbanization, climate change and inequalities. It reiterates the importance of prioritizing structural transformation for inclusive and people-centered development in Africa.