Report on the activities of the Economic Commission for Africa relating to subprograms 9: poverty, inequality and social policy

Abstract

This report outlines the activities of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) under subprogramme 9, focusing on poverty, inequality, and social policy for the biennium 2022-2023. The subprogramme aims to promote inclusive and equitable sustainable development in alignment with international commitments, addressing the pressing issues of poverty and inequality exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Key activities include the production of an issues paper for the Conference of African Ministers of Finance, expert group meetings to enhance capacities in addressing poverty, and the development of a method for assessing poverty without recent survey data. The report also highlights the completion of a social protection report, a review of ageing policies, and initiatives to improve migration statistics. ECA's collaboration with various partners, including the African Union and UN agencies, is emphasized, alongside planned activities for 2024-2025 that will continue to support member states in eradicating poverty and reducing inequality through evidence-based policy development and capacity building.