Unveiling the AIDA/AfCFTA Standard Impact Assessments Guide

Spring

AIDA/AfCFTA

Unveiling the AIDA/AfCFTA Standard Impact Assessments Guide

"As we announce the official launch of the AIDA/AfCFTA Standard Assessment Guide, we stand at a pivotal moment. This occasion allows us to not only highlight our significant strides but also reflect on how to capitalise on this advancement to foster economic integration, enhance trade, and promote sustainable development. This effort seeks to unleash the immense potential of AfCFTA and AIDA, propelling sustainable development, GDP growth, job opportunities, and improving Africa’s resilience against future crises and shocks, as stipulated by Agenda 2063." H.E. Mrs Nardos Bekele-Thomas

"As we announce the official launch of the AIDA/AfCFTA Standard Assessment Guide, we stand at a pivotal moment. This occasion allows us to not only highlight our significant strides but also reflect on how to capitalise on this advancement to foster economic integration, enhance trade, and promote sustainable development. This effort seeks to unleash the immense potential of AfCFTA and AIDA, propelling sustainable development, GDP growth, job opportunities, and improving Africa’s resilience against future crises and shocks, as stipulated by Agenda 2063." H.E. Mrs Nardos Bekele-Thomas

In a significant step towards driving economic growth and transformation across Africa, the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) has partnered with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, the African Union Commission, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to launch the "Standard Assessment Guide for Accelerated Industrial Development for Africa (AIDA) & the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)."

In a significant step towards driving economic growth and transformation across Africa, the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) has partnered with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, the African Union Commission, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to launch the "Standard Assessment Guide for Accelerated Industrial Development for Africa (AIDA) & the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)."

In a significant step towards driving economic growth and transformation across Africa, the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) has partnered with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, the African Union Commission, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to launch the "Standard Assessment Guide for Accelerated Industrial Development for Africa (AIDA) & the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)."

This landmark achievement took place during the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on the 17th of July 2024, following the directives of the 17th Extraordinary Assembly of the AU Heads of State & Government on Industrialization and Economic Diversification, held on the 25th of November 2022 in Niamey, Niger. The mandate came in response to the slow progress in implementing programs relevant to industrialization, structural economic transformation, and development towards the AU aspirations in Agenda 2063.

The successful launch event builds upon the foundational Kick-off Workshop held in Kigali in September 2023, where key stakeholders gathered to set the strategic direction and objectives. Additionally, the various meetings of the Interorganizational Steering Committee have played a crucial role in coordinating efforts, sharing insights, and aligning our collective vision.

This landmark achievement took place during the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on the 17th of July 2024, following the directives of the 17th Extraordinary Assembly of the AU Heads of State & Government on Industrialization and Economic Diversification, held on the 25th of November 2022 in Niamey, Niger. The mandate came in response to the slow progress in implementing programs relevant to industrialization, structural economic transformation, and development towards the AU aspirations in Agenda 2063.

This landmark achievement took place during the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on the 17th of July 2024, following the directives of the 17th Extraordinary Assembly of the AU Heads of State & Government on Industrialization and Economic Diversification, held on the 25th of November 2022 in Niamey, Niger. The mandate came in response to the slow progress in implementing programs relevant to industrialization, structural economic transformation, and development towards the AU aspirations in Agenda 2063.

The successful launch event builds upon the foundational Kick-off Workshop held in Kigali in September 2023, where key stakeholders gathered to set the strategic direction and objectives. Additionally, the various meetings of the Interorganizational Steering Committee have played a crucial role in coordinating efforts, sharing insights, and aligning our collective vision.
This landmark achievement took place during the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on the 17th of July 2024, following the directives of the 17th Extraordinary Assembly of the AU Heads of State & Government on Industrialization and Economic Diversification, held on the 25th of November 2022 in Niamey, Niger. The mandate came in response to the slow progress in implementing programs relevant to industrialization, structural economic transformation, and development towards the AU aspirations in Agenda 2063.

The successful launch event builds upon the foundational Kick-off Workshop held in Kigali in September 2023, where key stakeholders gathered to set the strategic direction and objectives. Additionally, the various meetings of the Interorganizational Steering Committee have played a crucial role in coordinating efforts, sharing insights, and aligning our collective vision.

This landmark achievement took place during the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on the 17th of July 2024, following the directives of the 17th Extraordinary Assembly of the AU Heads of State & Government on Industrialization and Economic Diversification, held on the 25th of November 2022 in Niamey, Niger. The mandate came in response to the slow progress in implementing programs relevant to industrialization, structural economic transformation, and development towards the AU aspirations in Agenda 2063.

The successful launch event builds upon the foundational Kick-off Workshop held in Kigali in September 2023, where key stakeholders gathered to set the strategic direction and objectives. Additionally, the various meetings of the Interorganizational Steering Committee have played a crucial role in coordinating efforts, sharing insights, and aligning our collective vision.

The guide, designed with four key principles, is a practical, user-friendly tool that delivers actionable insights for policymakers. It continuously engages with stakeholders, builds on AU initiatives and global benchmarks, and ensures seamless linkages between AfCFTA, AIDA, and other continental frameworks. This indispensable tool leverages best practices to revolutionize Africa's industrial and trade policy integration.

This landmark achievement took place during the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on the 17th of July 2024, following the directives of the 17th Extraordinary Assembly of the AU Heads of State & Government on Industrialization and Economic Diversification, held on the 25th of November 2022 in Niamey, Niger. The mandate came in response to the slow progress in implementing programs relevant to industrialization, structural economic transformation, and development towards the AU aspirations in Agenda 2063.

The successful launch event builds upon the foundational Kick-off Workshop held in Kigali in September 2023, where key stakeholders gathered to set the strategic direction and objectives. Additionally, the various meetings of the Interorganizational Steering Committee have played a crucial role in coordinating efforts, sharing insights, and aligning our collective vision.

This landmark achievement took place during the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on the 17th of July 2024, following the directives of the 17th Extraordinary Assembly of the AU Heads of State & Government on Industrialization and Economic Diversification, held on the 25th of November 2022 in Niamey, Niger. The mandate came in response to the slow progress in implementing programs relevant to industrialization, structural economic transformation, and development towards the AU aspirations in Agenda 2063.

The guide, designed with four key principles, is a practical, user-friendly tool that delivers actionable insights for policymakers. It continuously engages with stakeholders, builds on AU initiatives and global benchmarks, and ensures seamless linkages between AfCFTA, AIDA, and other continental frameworks. This indispensable tool leverages best practices to revolutionize Africa's industrial and trade policy integration.

The guide, designed with four key principles, is a practical, user-friendly tool that delivers actionable insights for policymakers. It continuously engages with stakeholders, builds on AU initiatives and global benchmarks, and ensures seamless linkages between AfCFTA, AIDA, and other continental frameworks. This indispensable tool leverages best practices to revolutionize Africa's industrial and trade policy integration.

The overarching goal of this initiative is to unlock the immense potential of AfCFTA and AIDA, propelling sustainable development, GDP growth, job opportunities (especially for youth and women), and improving Africa’s resilience against future crises and shocks, as stipulated by Agenda 2063. Accelerating the progress of this project is undeniably imperative, not only to honor our commitment to our heads of state and government but also to navigate the current and incumbent challenges confronting Africa's economic transformation and integration agendas.

The successful launch event builds upon the foundational Kick-off Workshop held in Kigali in September 2023, where key stakeholders gathered to set the strategic direction and objectives. Additionally, the various meetings of the Interorganizational Steering Committee have played a crucial role in coordinating efforts, sharing insights, and aligning our collective vision.

This landmark achievement took place during the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on the 17th of July 2024, following the directives of the 17th Extraordinary Assembly of the AU Heads of State & Government on Industrialization and Economic Diversification, held on the 25th of November 2022 in Niamey, Niger. The mandate came in response to the slow progress in implementing programs relevant to industrialization, structural economic transformation, and development towards the AU aspirations in Agenda 2063.

The overarching goal of this initiative is to unlock the immense potential of AfCFTA and AIDA, propelling sustainable development, GDP growth, job opportunities (especially for youth and women), and improving Africa’s resilience against future crises and shocks, as stipulated by Agenda 2063. Accelerating the progress of this project is undeniably imperative, not only to honor our commitment to our heads of state and government but also to navigate the current and incumbent challenges confronting Africa's economic transformation and integration agendas.

The guide, designed with four key principles, is a practical, user-friendly tool that delivers actionable insights for policymakers. It continuously engages with stakeholders, builds on AU initiatives and global benchmarks, and ensures seamless linkages between AfCFTA, AIDA, and other continental frameworks. This indispensable tool leverages best practices to revolutionize Africa's industrial and trade policy integration.

In conclusion, the official launch of the AUDA-NEPAD-led AIDA/AfCFTA Standard Assessment Guide marks the beginning of an exciting journey towards the accelerated implementation of AIDA and AfCFTA. While this achievement is significant, fully realizing the potential of AfCFTA and AIDA is a monumental endeavor that demands unwavering commitment and collaboration. Together, let's advance Africa's future and transform its economic landscape.

The successful launch event builds upon the foundational Kick-off Workshop held in Kigali in September 2023, where key stakeholders gathered to set the strategic direction and objectives. Additionally, the various meetings of the Interorganizational Steering Committee have played a crucial role in coordinating efforts, sharing insights, and aligning our collective vision.

This landmark achievement took place during the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on the 17th of July 2024, following the directives of the 17th Extraordinary Assembly of the AU Heads of State & Government on Industrialization and Economic Diversification, held on the 25th of November 2022 in Niamey, Niger. The mandate came in response to the slow progress in implementing programs relevant to industrialization, structural economic transformation, and development towards the AU aspirations in Agenda 2063.

In conclusion, the official launch of the AUDA-NEPAD-led AIDA/AfCFTA Standard Assessment Guide marks the beginning of an exciting journey towards the accelerated implementation of AIDA and AfCFTA. While this achievement is significant, fully realizing the potential of AfCFTA and AIDA is a monumental endeavor that demands unwavering commitment and collaboration. Together, let's advance Africa's future and transform its economic landscape.

The PIDA Week: A Chronicle of Africa’s Infrastructure Journey

Spring

PIDA Steering Committee Meeting

PIDA Steering Committee Meeting Wraps Up in Addis Ababa, Intensifies Push for PAP2 Progress

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia - 28 August 2024 – The PIDA Steering Committee concludes in Addis Ababa, focusing on invigorating the implementation of the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) Priority Action Plan 2 (PAP2).
As the PAP2 (2021-2030) nears its midterm, this meeting has served as a critical juncture for evaluating progress and strategizing on overcoming existing challenges to meet ambitious project objectives.

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia - 28 August 2024 – The PIDA Steering Committee concludes in Addis Ababa, focusing on invigorating the implementation of the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) Priority Action Plan 2 (PAP2).
As the PAP2 (2021-2030) nears its midterm, this meeting has served as a critical juncture for evaluating progress and strategizing on overcoming existing challenges to meet ambitious project objectives.

Dr. Kamugisha Kazaura, African Union Director of Infrastructure and Energy and Co-chair of the Steering Committee, emphasized that PIDA has reached a crucial milestone at the end of its initial five years. With half of the second phase of the program’s timeline remaining, he underscored the urgent need for effective resource mobilization and heightened expectations in infrastructure development. Dr. Kazaura called for renewed energy and coordinated efforts to address ongoing challenges and ensure that PIDA’s transformative goals are realized.

Dr. Kamugisha Kazaura, African Union Director of Infrastructure and Energy and Co-chair of the Steering Committee, emphasized that PIDA has reached a crucial milestone at the end of its initial five years. With half of the second phase of the program’s timeline remaining, he underscored the urgent need for effective resource mobilization and heightened expectations in infrastructure development. Dr. Kazaura called for renewed energy and coordinated efforts to address ongoing challenges and ensure that PIDA’s transformative goals are realized.

The meeting featured in-depth assessments from the four principal PIDA institutions—the African Union Commission (AUC), the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), the African Development Bank (AfDB), and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA)—as well as from Regional Economic Communities (RECs) including the East African Community (EAC), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the Union of the Mediterranean Arab States (UMA). Development partners also participated, highlighting the importance of leveraging best practices and successful project milestones to enhance Africa’s infrastructure landscape.
The successful launch event builds upon the foundational Kick-off Workshop held in Kigali in September 2023, where key stakeholders gathered to set the strategic direction and objectives. Additionally, the various meetings of the Interorganizational Steering Committee have played a crucial role in coordinating efforts, sharing insights, and aligning our collective vision.

This landmark achievement took place during the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on the 17th of July 2024, following the directives of the 17th Extraordinary Assembly of the AU Heads of State & Government on Industrialization and Economic Diversification, held on the 25th of November 2022 in Niamey, Niger. The mandate came in response to the slow progress in implementing programs relevant to industrialization, structural economic transformation, and development towards the AU aspirations in Agenda 2063.

The meeting featured in-depth assessments from the four principal PIDA institutions—the African Union Commission (AUC), the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), the African Development Bank (AfDB), and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA)—as well as from Regional Economic Communities (RECs) including the East African Community (EAC), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the Union of the Mediterranean Arab States (UMA). Development partners also participated, highlighting the importance of leveraging best practices and successful project milestones to enhance Africa’s infrastructure landscape.

PIDA Week has served as a forum for discussing the policy and regulatory frameworks necessary to create an enabling environment for infrastructure projects. These discussions have highlighted the importance of good governance and transparency in project implementation.
A major focus was placed on improving engagement with stakeholders and strengthening the capacity of RECs. This includes developing the skills, resources, and systems required to better manage and implement infrastructure projects. The Committee dedicated substantial time to identifying and addressing implementation hurdles, aiming to refine strategies and enhance project delivery. Resource challenges were a particular concern, with discussions centered on practical solutions to accelerate progress.
The successful launch event builds upon the foundational Kick-off Workshop held in Kigali in September 2023, where key stakeholders gathered to set the strategic direction and objectives. Additionally, the various meetings of the Interorganizational Steering Committee have played a crucial role in coordinating efforts, sharing insights, and aligning our collective vision.

This landmark achievement took place during the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on the 17th of July 2024, following the directives of the 17th Extraordinary Assembly of the AU Heads of State & Government on Industrialization and Economic Diversification, held on the 25th of November 2022 in Niamey, Niger. The mandate came in response to the slow progress in implementing programs relevant to industrialization, structural economic transformation, and development towards the AU aspirations in Agenda 2063.

A major focus was placed on improving engagement with stakeholders and strengthening the capacity of RECs. This includes developing the skills, resources, and systems required to better manage and implement infrastructure projects. The Committee dedicated substantial time to identifying and addressing implementation hurdles, aiming to refine strategies and enhance project delivery. Resource challenges were a particular concern, with discussions centered on practical solutions to accelerate progress.

The events have highlighted investment opportunities in PIDA projects, attracting interest from both local and international investors. This focus on investment has been crucial in mobilizing the financial resources needed to advance infrastructure development.
Representing AUDA-NEPAD’s Director of Infrastructure and Energy, Industrialisation, Trade and Regional Integration Mr Amine Idriss Adoum, Head of the Economic Integration Division Dr. Towela N’Jere, stressed the critical need for enhanced collaboration among all PIDA stakeholders. She noted that strengthening these efforts is vital for improving the bankability of PIDA projects, which is essential for securing necessary financing and investment. Effective collaboration among governments, development partners, private sector actors, and financial institutions is expected to lead to more viable project proposals, streamlined processes, and reduced risks associated with large-scale infrastructure initiatives.

The successful launch event builds upon the foundational Kick-off Workshop held in Kigali in September 2023, where key stakeholders gathered to set the strategic direction and objectives. Additionally, the various meetings of the Interorganizational Steering Committee have played a crucial role in coordinating efforts, sharing insights, and aligning our collective vision.

This landmark achievement took place during the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on the 17th of July 2024, following the directives of the 17th Extraordinary Assembly of the AU Heads of State & Government on Industrialization and Economic Diversification, held on the 25th of November 2022 in Niamey, Niger. The mandate came in response to the slow progress in implementing programs relevant to industrialization, structural economic transformation, and development towards the AU aspirations in Agenda 2063.

Representing AUDA-NEPAD’s Director of Infrastructure and Energy, Industrialisation, Trade and Regional Integration Mr Amine Idriss Adoum, Head of the Economic Integration Division Dr. Towela N’Jere, stressed the critical need for enhanced collaboration among all PIDA stakeholders. She noted that strengthening these efforts is vital for improving the bankability of PIDA projects, which is essential for securing necessary financing and investment. Effective collaboration among governments, development partners, private sector actors, and financial institutions is expected to lead to more viable project proposals, streamlined processes, and reduced risks associated with large-scale infrastructure initiatives.

The events have highlighted investment opportunities in PIDA projects, attracting interest from both local and international investors. This focus on investment has been crucial in mobilizing the financial resources needed to advance infrastructure development.
Robert Lisinge, Acting Director of the Technology, Innovation, Connectivity, and Infrastructure Division at UNECA, reaffirmed ECA’s commitment to advancing PIDA, underscoring its role in the successful realization of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Agenda 2063.
The successful launch event builds upon the foundational Kick-off Workshop held in Kigali in September 2023, where key stakeholders gathered to set the strategic direction and objectives. Additionally, the various meetings of the Interorganizational Steering Committee have played a crucial role in coordinating efforts, sharing insights, and aligning our collective vision.

This landmark achievement took place during the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on the 17th of July 2024, following the directives of the 17th Extraordinary Assembly of the AU Heads of State & Government on Industrialization and Economic Diversification, held on the 25th of November 2022 in Niamey, Niger. The mandate came in response to the slow progress in implementing programs relevant to industrialization, structural economic transformation, and development towards the AU aspirations in Agenda 2063.

Robert Lisinge, Acting Director of the Technology, Innovation, Connectivity, and Infrastructure Division at UNECA, reaffirmed ECA’s commitment to advancing PIDA, underscoring its role in the successful realization of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Agenda 2063.

The meeting was preceded by the PIDA Implementation Support Project (PISP) Steering Committee session, which reviewed progress on this joint initiative funded by the AfDB to expedite PIDA implementation.Robert Lisinge, Acting Director of the Technology, Innovation, Connectivity, and Infrastructure Division at UNECA, reaffirmed ECA’s commitment to advancing PIDA, underscoring its role in the successful realization of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Agenda 2063.
The successful launch event builds upon the foundational Kick-off Workshop held in Kigali in September 2023, where key stakeholders gathered to set the strategic direction and objectives. Additionally, the various meetings of the Interorganizational Steering Committee have played a crucial role in coordinating efforts, sharing insights, and aligning our collective vision.

This landmark achievement took place during the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on the 17th of July 2024, following the directives of the 17th Extraordinary Assembly of the AU Heads of State & Government on Industrialization and Economic Diversification, held on the 25th of November 2022 in Niamey, Niger. The mandate came in response to the slow progress in implementing programs relevant to industrialization, structural economic transformation, and development towards the AU aspirations in Agenda 2063.

The meeting was preceded by the PIDA Implementation Support Project (PISP) Steering Committee session, which reviewed progress on this joint initiative funded by the AfDB to expedite PIDA implementation.

Looking ahead, the committee set the stage for the upcoming 8th PIDA Week, scheduled for late November 2024, which will further explore advancing infrastructure development and integration across the continent.The successful launch event builds upon the foundational Kick-off Workshop held in Kigali in September 2023, where key stakeholders gathered to set the strategic direction and objectives. Additionally, the various meetings of the Interorganizational Steering Committee have played a crucial role in coordinating efforts, sharing insights, and aligning our collective vision.

This landmark achievement took place during the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on the 17th of July 2024, following the directives of the 17th Extraordinary Assembly of the AU Heads of State & Government on Industrialization and Economic Diversification, held on the 25th of November 2022 in Niamey, Niger. The mandate came in response to the slow progress in implementing programs relevant to industrialization, structural economic transformation, and development towards the AU aspirations in Agenda 2063.

Looking ahead, the committee set the stage for the upcoming 8th PIDA Week, scheduled for late November 2024, which will further explore advancing infrastructure development and integration across the continent.

Dr. Kazaura acknowledged the instrumental contributions of various partners in developing and implementing PIDA strategies, commending their collaborative efforts which have been essential to the program’s achievements.
This landmark achievement took place during the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on the 17th of July 2024, following the directives of the 17th Extraordinary Assembly of the AU Heads of State & Government on Industrialization and Economic Diversification, held on the 25th of November 2022 in Niamey, Niger. The mandate came in response to the slow progress in implementing programs relevant to industrialization, structural economic transformation, and development towards the AU aspirations in Agenda 2063.

Dr. Kazaura acknowledged the instrumental contributions of various partners in developing and implementing PIDA strategies, commending their collaborative efforts which have been essential to the program’s achievements.

With a strong focus on fostering collaboration and reinforcing commitment, the PIDA Steering Committee aims to drive substantial progress in Africa's infrastructure development, ultimately contributing to economic growth and regional integration.This landmark achievement took place during the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on the 17th of July 2024, following the directives of the 17th Extraordinary Assembly of the AU Heads of State & Government on Industrialization and Economic Diversification, held on the 25th of November 2022 in Niamey, Niger. The mandate came in response to the slow progress in implementing programs relevant to industrialization, structural economic transformation, and development towards the AU aspirations in Agenda 2063.

With a strong focus on fostering collaboration and reinforcing commitment, the PIDA Steering Committee aims to drive substantial progress in Africa's infrastructure development, ultimately contributing to economic growth and regional integration.

Chronology of PIDA Week:

Notes to the editor:

About PIDA: The Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) is a strategic framework designed to address Africa’s infrastructure challenges and drive sustainable economic development across the continent. Established by the African Union, PIDA aims to enhance regional integration and connectivity through the development of key infrastructure projects.

About PIDA: The Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) is a strategic framework designed to address Africa’s infrastructure challenges and drive sustainable economic development across the continent. Established by the African Union, PIDA aims to enhance regional integration and connectivity through the development of key infrastructure projects.

About PIDA PAP2: PIDA Priority Action Plan 2 (PAP2) covers the period from 2021 to 2030 and focuses on implementing high-impact infrastructure projects that are critical for Africa’s economic growth and integration. PAP2 builds on the successes of the first phase, targeting key areas such as transport, energy, and ICT infrastructure, with a goal of fostering regional integration and improving socio-economic outcomes across Africa.

About PIDA PAP2: PIDA Priority Action Plan 2 (PAP2) covers the period from 2021 to 2030 and focuses on implementing high-impact infrastructure projects that are critical for Africa’s economic growth and integration. PAP2 builds on the successes of the first phase, targeting key areas such as transport, energy, and ICT infrastructure, with a goal of fostering regional integration and improving socio-economic outcomes across Africa.

For more information:
For further information please contact:
Ms. Bezayit Eyoel| Department of Infrastructure and Energy| African Union Commission| E-mail: bezayite@africa-union.org |
Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org I Web: au. int | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | Follow Us: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube Information and Communication Directorate, African Union CommissionE-mail:DIC@africa-union.org Web: au. int | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | Follow Us: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

For more information:
For further information please contact:
Ms. Bezayit Eyoel| Department of Infrastructure and Energy| African Union Commission| E-mail: bezayite@africa-union.org |
Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org I Web: au. int | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | Follow Us: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube Information and Communication Directorate, African Union CommissionE-mail:DIC@africa-union.org Web: au. int | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | Follow Us: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

Celebrating a Decade of Infrastructure Transformation in Africa: PIDA Pre-Launch Ceremony Unveils Promising Report

The African Union Development Agency-NEPAD (AUDA-NEPAD) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) jointly hosted a momentous pre-launch ceremony in Nairobi, signifying ten years of remarkable progress in transforming Africa’s infrastructure landscape.

The event marked the successful completion of the highly anticipated “PIDA First 10-Year Implementation Report” and the visionary “2nd PIDA Priority Action Plan (2021-2030) Projects Prospectus”.

The ceremony, held during the 5th African Union Mid-Year Coordination Meeting, attracted distinguished guests, including H.E. Mrs. Nardos Bekele-Thomas, CEO of AUDA-NEPAD, H.E. Mr. HORIUCHI Toshihiko, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Mission of Japan to the African Union and Mr. NAKAMURA Toshiyuki, Special Advisor to JICA President and Former Senior Vice President of JICA. Their presence underscored the significance of this milestone achievement.

H.E. Mrs. Nardos Bekele-Thomas, CEO of AUDA-NEPAD and H.E. Mr. HORIUCHI Toshihiko, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Mission of Japan to the African Union Displaying the 10 Year PIDA Report

In her opening remarks, H.E. Mrs. Nardos Bekele-Thomas emphasized the critical role of infrastructure development in stimulating growth, fostering global integration and elevating living standards. She highlighted that supporting Africa’s infrastructure is not only supporting the continent but also the world.

One of the report’s noteworthy findings, as highlighted by H.E. Mr. Toshihiko, was that AU member states emerged as the primary financial contributors. This revelation reaffirms PIDA’s unique standing as an infrastructure policy framework designed by Africa, for Africa.

Mr. Nakamura Toshiyuki, Special Advisor to JICA President, acknowledged PIDA’s alignment with the principles of ownership and corridor development, which JICA has steadfastly supported through the TICAD process. He expressed confidence that the report’s successful completion would act as a catalyst for enhanced resource mobilization for PIDA projects.

PIDA, a strategic continental initiative spearheaded by the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), aims to accelerate infrastructure development across Africa by addressing the continent’s infrastructure deficit and promoting regional integration, economic growth, and sustainable development. Encompassing sectors such as transport, energy, water, and ICT, PIDA fosters economic development, trade, and connectivity. By 2040, PIDA has set ambitious targets, including the implementation of cross-border infrastructure projects to bolster connectivity, trade, and access to reliable and sustainable services. The initiative is also expected to have a significant impact on increased investment in infrastructure projects, improved regional integration, job creation, and sustainable economic growth in African countries.

The official launch of the “PIDA First 10-Year Implementation Report” is scheduled for September, during the 4th Ordinary Session of the African Union Specialized Technical Committee on Transport, Transcontinental and Interregional Infrastructure, and Energy (STC-TTIIE) in Zanzibar, Tanzania. As the journey to drive infrastructure development across Africa continues, the world eagerly awaits the transformative outcomes of PIDA’s decade-long dedication to revolutionizing Africa’s infrastructure landscape.

Statement by Mr. HORIUCHI Toshihiko, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Mission of Japan to the African Union

H.E. Mr. HORIUCHI Toshihiko, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Mission of Japan to the African Union

On the very important occasion of the pre-launch of 10 Year PIDA Progress Report, firstly I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all AUDA-NEPAD team members who devoted their efforts to this pre-launch. While congratulating on the completion of the report, I would like to introduce the Japanese engagement toward PIDA as well as Japan-Africa Partnership through decades- long Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD).

(1) Japan`s Contributions to PIDA

PIDA incorporates two visions advocated by Japan: the concept of Corridor Development and the philosophy of Africa’s ownership in which Japan listens to the voices of Africa. Firstly, the concept of Corridor Development is based on the recognition that promotion of the development of Africa would be difficult without cross-regional analysis. That helps us to find out what the bottlenecks are, for example, in transporting goods from ports through trunk roads to landlocked countries over national borders. Corridor Development is expected to be further promoted toward its completion in 2040. In this context, Japan would like to combine the expertise and resources of both AUDA-NEPAD and JICA, build stronger partnerships, and support infrastructure development across the African continent. Here in Kenya as well, in order to contribute to the realization of PIDA, the Japanese government and JICA helped formulate the Master Plan (M/P) on Logistics in Northern Economic Corridor in 2016. Based on this M/P, multiple projects such as the expansion of Mombasa Port and the construction of future Mombasa Gate Bridge have been underway. The 10-year PIDA Progress Report shows a concrete achievement of the last decade and answers to the current challenges. I would like to point out one of the impressive findings: the question of who is the biggest contributor to the PIDA projects. It is nothing but African countries themselves. This is a strong statement that PIDA is an infrastructure policy framework of Africa, by Africa, and for Africa.

(2) Japan-Africa Partnership through TICAD

The other vision advocated by Japan in PIDA is the basic philosophy of Africa’s ownership that listens to the voices of Africa, which constitutes an imperative philosophy of TICAD. Launched by Japan in 1993, TICAD is one of the oldest and the most inclusive partnership platforms with Africa. TICAD has always shed light on the importance of ownership by Africa and partnership by the international community as an imperative philosophy, and both Japan and Africa have cherished the fruits of TICAD to this day. The Eighth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 8) was held in Tunis on August 27 and 28, 2022, co-organized by the Government of Japan, the United Nations, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the World Bank and the African Union Commission (AUC). During TICAD 8, Prime Minister Kishida Fumio expressed the commitment of Japan to stand together with Africa in this critical juncture, exacerbated by global challenges. To fulfill this commitment, Japan announced that it would invest 30 billion USD as the sum of public and private financial contributions over the next three years, with an emphasis on investment in people and the quality of growth. TICAD 9 is scheduled to be held in Japan in 2025. Counting on in our cooperation, it is often said that infrastructure realized by Japan’s cooperation in Africa works for a long time. Based on this brand, Japan will continue to promote the development of Quality Infrastructure that is resilient against disasters by leveraging the advanced technology and know-how that Japanese companies have. Furthermore, at the G7 Hiroshima Summit held in Japan in May 2023, we reaffirmed our shared commitment to “The Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII) ” launched by the G7. We also aim to mobilize up to 600 billion US dollars by 2027 together with the G7. In addition, through the Quality Infrastructure Conferences (GIC) held bilaterally with 14 countries since 2015, we will further promote to expand the business in Africa by Japanese companies.

(3) Conclusion

Japan has been utilizing external support generously offered by the international community in its struggle during the post-World War II reconstruction period. Japan was obliged to rebuild from scratch as it was devastated by the war. It was almost rebuilding a nation from the ashes. In addition to the hard works of our parents and grandparents who endeavored for the prosperity of Japan, Japan was also fortunate enough to enjoy the kindness and good will rendered by the international community. For instance, Shinkansen, the Japanese Bullet Train, is one of the fruits of international support for significant transportation infrastructure development that enabled Japan to overcome the challenges it faced. My dream is that one day Africa and Japan can further cooperate and pay it forward together for the sake of future generations! Once again, I would like to deliver congratulatory message on the completion of 10 Year PIDA Progress Report as the culmination of a strong and enduring partnership between AUDA-NEPAD and Japan that focuses on advancing African regional integration and infrastructure development. It is my hope that this report will serve as a signpost for real and positive change.