During the 11th Session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD-11), leaders from across Africa urged swift action to advance the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing their potential to generate employment opportunities and promote inclusive growth throughout the continent.
The forum, attended by heads of state, government officials, academics, and international partners, served as a platform to outline the urgent steps needed to accelerate progress on the SDGs as there are only five years remaining.
President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda emphasized his country’s efforts in job creation, highlighting that 3.6 million Ugandans are employed in agriculture, 1.4 million in manufacturing, and 5 million in services.
He framed this progress as a testament to Uganda’s dedication to economic development and job growth.
The forum also highlighted the importance of regional cooperation, with many leaders stressing the critical role of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in achieving prosperity.
However, the discussions also acknowledged the significant obstacles that hinder progress, including the ongoing impacts of COVID-19, global geopolitical tensions, and a heavy debt burden which now stands at 64.3% of GDP for many nations.
Despite these challenges, leaders remained hopeful and focused on a bold approach to realizing the SDGs.
Looking ahead to 2025, the forum identified five SDGs that will receive particular attention: Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3), Gender Equality (SDG 5), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), Life Below Water (SDG 14), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17).
Amina J. Mohammed, the United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, emphasized the importance of African leadership in driving the continent’s future progress.
She urged, “Let us tell a new story driven by African leadership, especially our young people, powered by African people and anchored in African values,” reinforcing the collective commitment to achieving sustainable development goals.
