16th Ordinary Session of the African Union Executive Council: statement by Abdoulie Janneh UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ECA 28 January 2010 Addis Ababa

Abstract

This Statement delivered by Abdoulie Janneh UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ECA at the 16th Ordinary Session of the African Union Executive Council. Mr. Janneh, highlighted that, Africa was encouraged by the trailblazing example of countries like Sudan and Ghana but with a critical mass of countries achieving independence in 1960 that year could arguably be described as the turning point in the struggle for decolonization. Africa has made considerable progress in a number of social development areas, with some remarkable gains in gender equality, primary school enrolment, reductions in HIV prevalence rates and progress in the treatment of infectious and preventable diseases. These are no mean achievements. Regional integration is imperative if Africa is to realize its potential to become a dynamic economic force. In today's global knowledge economy and information-driven society, economic success is increasingly based on the effective utilization of intangible assets such as knowledge, skills and innovative potential as key resources for competitive advantage. The use of geo-spatial technology for management and exploration of natural resources and disaster awareness and preparedness as well as in climate change adaptation will contribute to improving socio-economic conditions in Africa.