Transforming Africa: An Agenda for Action

Abstract

Without a doubt, the development outlook for Africa has changed considerably since I became Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa decade ago. In 1995 our countries were looking back on a bruising period of slow or negative growth, a disastrous record of dictatorship and poor governance, a burgeoning of conflict and above all a deep lack of confident. In the 10 years since, we have seen growth rates steadily accelerate, democratic systems widely adopted, continental leadership and direction renewed and civil society rapidly expand at the grass roots. We have also seen a rising conviction that Africa can and must lead its efforts to develop. As I look back over my 10 years at the Commission’s helm, I am grateful to have had such a fascinating vantage point from which to observe and analyze socioeconomic tends on the continent. I also value the many opportunities to engage in extensive dialogue with Africa’s leaders, policy makers and stakeholders both on the...