Africa regional consultative meeting on the sustainable development goals Ministerial segment Statement by Carlos Lopes, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ECA

Abstract

This statement delivered by Carlos Lopes UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ECA at the Africa Regional Consultative Meeting on the Sustainable Development Goals Ministerial Segment. Mr. Lopes on his remarks highlighted that, Africa is on a promising pathway. It has defied the naysayers who predicted it would spiral downwards into further conflict and insecurity because of poverty and privation. Over the last decade, Africa has experienced fast economic growth, improved governance, less people affected by complex conflicts and humanitarian crisis. Africa should remember its growth is not yet producing enough transformation. Those countries already industrialized, and the ones that aspire to be, have two common worrisome truths to deal with they are becoming less industrialized and more unequal. It is important to ensure that the outcome of consultations is favorable to Africa’s development aspirations. Beyond the adoption of SDGs at the global level, sound and dynamic national development policies and planning will be indispensable to the realization of the continent’s goals.