The engagement of all stakeholders is imperative in facilitating inclusive growth and driving the transformation of Africa’s economic and social landscape. This was the central theme of the recent discussion on “Mobilising Civil Society to Shape Africa’s Transformation and Reforms of the Global Financial Architecture”, which took place during the Annual Meetings of the African Development Bank (AfDB) in Nairobi on 31st May.
The event served as a platform to delineate the institutional framework for involving civil society in the AfDB’s programs and initiatives. Moderated by Solomon Mugera, the AfDB’s Director of Communications and External Relations, the panel discussion featured prominent figures such as Beth Dunford, AfDB Vice-President for Agriculture, Human and Social Development, Masheti Masinjila, Executive Director of the Collaborative Centre for Gender and Development, Karuti Kanyinga, Director of the Institute for Development Studies, Mavis Owusu-Gyamfi, Executive Vice-President of the African Centre for Economic Transformation, and Augustine Njamnshi, Executive Secretary of the African Coalition for Sustainable Energy and Access.
The panel underscored the pivotal role played by civil society in propelling economic and social transformation in Africa. Their participation in decision-making processes brings about substantial benefits, promoting transparency and equal opportunities, ultimately resulting in better-designed public projects that address the needs of local communities.
Mavis Owusu-Gyamfi emphasized the necessity for a quantitative framework to measure economic transformation, based on diversification, export competitiveness, productivity, technology, and well-being. She suggested that such a framework would guide political decisions and ensure accountability based on dependable data.
The discussions of the panel have been influential in developing a strategic roadmap for civil society’s involvement in Africa’s development. Masheti Masinjila expressed satisfaction with the event’s focus on how ordinary individuals can contribute to global discussions on finance and development.
Beth Dunford underscored the significance of collaboration in ensuring that reforms are not only initiated, but also effectively monitored and evaluated. She stated that this commitment to accountability would foster trust, ensure transparency, and drive the desired impact.
In addressing the restructuring of the international financial architecture, Augustine Njamnshi called for the establishment of fair and equitable financial structures that align with Africa’s challenges and opportunities. He emphasized the potential to influence these reforms and create a financial environment conducive to sustainable development.
Sijh Diagne, adviser to Hassatou Diop N’Sele, the AfDB Vice-President for Finance, highlighted the potential for creating a more inclusive and sustainable future for Africa through the combined efforts and expertise of civil society and the African Development Bank.
The insightful debates and actionable ideas from the discussion will contribute to the upcoming African Civil Society Forum, further reinforcing the collective dedication to sustainable and shared growth.
In conclusion, the collaboration between the African Development Bank and civil society presents a promising pathway towards Africa’s transformation and a much-needed overhaul of the global financial architecture. With inclusive participation and a shared vision, the prospects for sustainable development in Africa are indeed promising.