African Union to Advance Infrastructure Development with the Innovative Service Delivery Mechanism (SDM) for Early Project Preparation

African Union to Advance Infrastructure Development with the Innovative Service Delivery Mechanism (SDM) for Early Project Preparation


In a significant move to accelerate infrastructure development across Africa, the African Union (AU) is leveraging its Service Delivery Mechanism (SDM) to address early-stage project preparation challenges. This initiative comes in the wake of the AU’s adoption of the second phase of the Priority Action Plan (PIDA PAP2) in 2021, which outlines 69 critical infrastructure projects with an estimated investment of USD 161 billion.

The PIDA PAP2, covering energy, ICT, transport, and water sectors, aims to create interconnected infrastructure networks that enhance regional integration and economic development. This approach is crucial, given the African Development Bank’s estimate that the continent requires between USD 130-170 billion annually for infrastructure development.

One of the primary obstacles to smooth project progression has been the inadequate preparation of projects in their early stages. To tackle this issue, the AU, through its development agency AUDA-NEPAD, established the SDM in 2014. This tool is designed to streamline the project preparation process, facilitating easier access to financing and attracting investors for detailed engineering studies, construction, and maintenance.

A key feature of the SDM is the PIDA Quality Label (PQL), a recognition awarded to projects that excel in early-stage preparation. The Specialized Technical Committee on Transport, Infrastructure, Intercontinental and Interregional Infrastructure, and Energy (STC-TTIIE) of the AU adopted the Quick Check Methodology and the Green Check Methodology, both of which are critical appraisals that are part of the PQL.

Examples of SDM’s impact are already evident. For instance, the North-South Power Transmission Corridor, a massive 8,000 km line project aimed at providing energy to 10 African countries, has benefited from SDM’s early-stage support. This project, which will connect Egypt, Sudan, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, showcases the potential of cross-border infrastructure initiatives.

To date, the SDM has evaluated over 90 projects, assisting with the preparation of Terms of Reference, feasibility studies, and job estimations. Some of these projects have successfully secured financing for construction, demonstrating the effectiveness of the SDM approach.

Looking ahead, AUDA-NEPAD is organizing a workshop titled “SDM Workshop: Quality Assurance and Acceleration of the Preparation of Infrastructure Projects in Africa,” scheduled for October 8-10, 2024, in Sandton, Johannesburg. This event aims to share SDM results, present AUDA-NEPAD’s vision for improving SDM services, discuss best practices for innovative infrastructure financing, and establish new partnerships for project preparation and bankability.

As Africa continues to push for enhanced regional integration and economic growth, tools like the SDM are proving invaluable in bridging the gap between project conception and realization. With continued refinement and support, the SDM stands to play a pivotal role in shaping Africa’s infrastructure landscape for years to come.

Download Workshop Documents Here 


 

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

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

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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

Special Edition: PIDA 10-Year Implementation Report and 2nd PIDA Priority Action Plan (2021-2030) Projects Prospectus – Japanese

Special Edition: PIDA 10-Year Implementation Report and 2nd PIDA Priority Action Plan (2021-2030) Projects Prospectus – Japanese

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This special edition highlights the significant collaboration between the African Union and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in advancing Africa's infrastructure development. It presents a comprehensive review of the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa's (PIDA) first decade of implementation, showcasing key achievements, challenges, and lessons learned. Additionally, it introduces the 2nd PIDA Priority Action Plan (PAP) for 2021-2030, outlining priority projects and strategies for the coming decade. This Japanese-supported edition underscores the importance of international partnerships in realizing Africa's infrastructure vision and demonstrates Japan's commitment to supporting sustainable development across the continent. The report serves as a valuable resource for stakeholders involved in African infrastructure development, offering insights into progress made and future directions for PIDA.

PIDA Steering Committee to Gather in Addis Ababa for Infrastructure Development Talks

PIDA Steering Committee to Gather in Addis Ababa for Infrastructure Development Talks

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 20 March 2024: The Program for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) Steering Committee is scheduled to convene from March 26-27, 2024, at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to discuss progress and next steps for accelerating Africa’s infrastructure development priorities.

The meeting will bring together representatives of the African Union Commission (AUC), the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), the African Development Bank (AfDB), the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), Regional Economic Communities (RECs), and invited pan-African organizations.

PIDA, an African Union initiative, is a framework launched in 2012 to integrate, connect and transform Africa through infrastructure. Mobilizing adequate resources is crucial for expediting the implementation of PIDA’s priority projects. The second Phase of PIDA (PIDA PAP2) comprises 69 strategic regional transport, energy, ICT and water projects that require USD 161 billion to bring them to completion.

The Steering Committee aims at reviewing progress made since the previous meeting in implementing PIDA PAP2 and identifying any challenges encountered; providing strategic guidance on priority actions required in 2024 to accelerate PIDA implementation and the achievement of its overarching goals of promoting sustainable infrastructure as well as exploring opportunities to synergize efforts among key partners and stakeholders.

The African Union and its member states as well as Regional Economic Communities are working to attract the necessary capital from both public and private investors. Resource mobilization efforts involve engaging development finance institutions, multilateral banks, and potential donors to secure funding commitments for PIDA projects. PIDA implementing stakeholders are seeking to form robust alliances with the private sector, non-governmental organizations, and development partners to foster technical, logistical, and financial cooperation.

The PIDA Steering Committee meeting in Addis Ababa is expected to produce recommendations and targeted interventions for this year to enhance strategic coordination and collaboration for the implementation of PIDA’s priority projects. //Ends

A Decade of Transforming Africa’s Infrastructure – The First 10-Year PIDA Implementation Report

A Decade of Transforming Africa’s Infrastructure – The First 10-Year PIDA Implementation Report

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Cliquez pour télécharger le rapport.

 

The primary goal for the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) is to overcome regional connectivity challenges by developing transformative infrastructure across the continent. By fostering enhanced connectivity, PIDA aims to fuel intra-Africa trade, facilitate movement of people, and position Africa as a global player. With reduced business costs and unrestricted flow of capital and talent, PIDA paves the way for a prosperous and interconnected Africa.

Over the past ten years, PIDA has driven remarkable progress in transport, energy, ICT and transboundary water resources across Africa. Thanks to AUDA-NEPAD’s dedicated efforts, PIDA projects have transitioned from planning to active stages, with many now operational, under construction, in financial transactions, or undergoing structural development.

   

 

KEY IMPACT OF PIDA IMPLEMENTATION

 

Close to 30 million people gained access to electricity, with current overall access to electricity at around 44%. There has been a slight increase in intra-Africa exports to 16% of trade due to road and rail infrastructure. PIDA enables the water storage infrastructure needed for food production and trade. ICT broadband penetration is now more than 25%, exceeding the 10% target. One of the intended outcomes of PIDA is also to address economic marginalisation and social exclusion issues by facilitating the creation of economic opportunities and decent employment. During construction and operation, 112,900 direct and 49,400 indirect jobs were created.

By the end of 2020, investment commitments had exceeded the PIDA PAP1 initial estimation by USD 14 billion (20% above the initial target), reaching USD 82 billion. Different financing sources for PIDA PAP1 have been allocated, including USD 34.35 billion (42%) from AU Member States, USD 19.67 billion (24%) from ICA Members (including World Bank Group, AfDB, ICA MDBs, and DFIs), USD 19.42 billion (24%) from the People’s Republic of China, USD 2.28 billion (3%) from the private sector, and USD 5.88 billion (7%) from other sources. The portion of private sector financing (3%) of PIDA projects has been particularly low when compared with other emerging economies, such as India (19%) and Mexico (16%).

 

 

1
Years of PIDA Progress
PIDA was launched in 2012. It marks ten years of the implementation of the first phase of the PIDA PAP I and its transition to the second Phase of the PIDA PAP II
0
PAP I Projects
Projects across sectors such as transport, energy, ICT, and water, with a focus on regional infrastructure development and connectivity enhancement in Africa.
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PAP II Projects
Projects selected based on a ranking system that assessed their viability and alignment with the Integrated Corridor Approach
USD
0
Billion
Investment Value of implementing PIDA projects
Implementing all PIDA projects to address anticipated infrastructure needs by 2040
USD
0
Billion
investment value of PAP II (Billion)
PIDA PAP2 includes 69 transport, energy, transboundary, and ICT projects,
0
%
Achievements for PIDA Implementation
Most PIDA PAP1 projects are operational, under construction, or in financial transaction or structuring phases.. 73% of projects have moved from conceptualisation and early stages.

The ownership principle is critical to the success of infrastructure development projects promoted by PIDA across Africa. Its principle is based on the belief that infrastructure development projects must cater, first and foremost, to the needs of African countries. With this in mind, it is necessary to acknowledge that the most significant source of financing commitments to PIDA PAP1 (42%) comes from AU Member States. Failure to consider ownership may lead to poor implementation and eventual failure of infrastructure projects.

PIDA Financing

 

 

PERSPECTIVES ON THE FUTURE

Over the past decade, several important lessons have been learned in the context of PIDA that can be applied to achieve Africa’s infrastructure goals. These lessons can be summarized as follows:

  • Leveraging Innovative Opportunities: PIDA can expedite project implementation by embracing emerging opportunities in technology, innovative infrastructure sources,
    and financing. Advancements in technology, digitalisation, and renewable energy offer new avenues for infrastructure development, fostering connectivity, innovation, job creation, and economic growth. Private sector funding, green bonds, and climate financing should be harnessed to increase investment in PIDA projects.
  • Scaling Up Successful Projects: PIDA has shown the importance of regional integration and cooperation, especially in the ICT sector, where it has exceeded its targets. It is crucial to replicate successful projects and share best practices across Africa, emphasizing documentation and experience-sharing through platforms like the Virtual PIDA Information Centre (VPIC) to empower countries.
  • Addressing Capacity and Funding Challenges: The next generation of PIDA projects should tackle challenges related to inadequate capacity for project preparation and limited funding availability. Strengthening public-private partnerships, improving feasibility studies, and streamlining regulatory frameworks can enhance investment attractiveness and bridge financing gaps. Additionally, capacity-building and good governance practices are essential to ensure efficient project delivery.
  • Sustainability and Long-Term Impact: Infrastructure maintenance is often overlooked in Africa, so future PIDA projects should incorporate systemic maintenance plans and financing strategies. Furthermore, projects should prioritize environmental, social, and economic sustainability by integrating green initiatives, renewable energy, and climate resilience. Promoting social inclusivity and gender equality in infrastructure planning and implementation will ensure equitable growth.
  • Inter-Institutional Collaboration and Partnerships: Collaborative efforts among African Union institutions, Regional Economic Communities (RECs), development partners, and the private sector have been integral to PIDA’s success. These partnerships must be strengthened to mobilize resources, share expertise, and facilitate knowledge exchange, ensuring a harmonized approach to infrastructure development in Africa.

By integrating these lessons into PIDA’s future endeavors, Africa can address its infrastructure deficit, promote sustainable development, and foster economic growth and connectivity across the continent.

Key Highlights of the PIDA 10 Year Report