President Paul Kagame of Rwanda has called for Africa’s economic unity saying it is more important now than ever.
The Rwandan leader made the remarks while delivering his remarks at the opening ceremony of the 17th Extraordinary Summit on Industrialization and Economic Diversification.
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“The pace of industrialisation in Africa remains too slow to achieve Africa’s Development goals under the agenda 2063. We need to invest more in our national budgets in industrial policy, and significantly increase energy and infrastructure capacity. We must also build stronger links between our universities and the private sector, to promote a culture of innovation that includes young people,” he said.
President Kagame added that the most important tool we have to speed up industrial development in Africa is the Continental Free Trade Area. To create impact, we need to move forward in unison, and with a sense of urgency. It is important to finalise the remaining protocols and schedules of commitments.
“Times have changed, and the economic unity of our continent is more important than ever. Time and time again, we are reminded of the importance of working together. No one can make it alone.” President Kagame.
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President Kagame also chaired the closed session of the Extraordinary Summit of The African Union where leaders discussed the key next steps to achieve industrialisation and economic diversification, and the operational tools to put in place to further implement the AfCFTA.
The summit held in Niamey, Niger in West Africa was part of the Africa Industrialisation week (AIW-20-25 November), annual commemorative activities aimed at highlighting Africa’s renewed determination and commitment to regional industrialisation.
