The recently concluded Africa Business Forum (ABF) 2024, held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, echoed with the continent’s vibrant energy and ambition. Spearheaded by UN Deputy Secretary-General Claver Gatete, this landmark event convened leaders, innovators and visionaries under the unifying theme: “Boosting Africa’s Transformation through Education, Science, Technology and Innovation (ESTI). Here are some highlights:

Gatete’s Visionary Address:

Setting the stage, Gatete outlined his vision for ESTI as the cornerstone of Africa’s progress. He emphasized the need for increased investments in education, fostering a culture of innovation and forging strategic partnerships. This ignited the discussions that followed, inspiring participants to translate words into action.

Charting the Course:

Panel sessions and discussions delved into the nitty-gritty of ESTI implementation. From addressing the accessibility gap in education to nurturing entrepreneurial ecosystems, diverse challenges and opportunities were explored. Specific highlights include:

• The case for STEM education: Experts emphasized the crucial role of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education in equipping Africa’s future workforce with the skills needed to compete in the globalized economy.
• Empowering youth: Discussions focused on initiatives to equip young Africans with the necessary skills and resources to become active participants and leaders in the ESTI revolution.
• Bridging the digital divide: Strategies for expanding internet access and promoting digital literacy across the continent were a central theme, recognizing the importance of inclusivity in the digital age.

Partnership Power:

Collaboration emerged as a recurring theme. Governments, businesses, and international organizations pledged to work together towards shared goals. Key partnerships include:

• Public-private partnerships: Initiatives designed to leverage both public and private sector resources to accelerate ESTI development were announced.
• South-South collaboration: The importance of knowledge sharing and collaboration between African nations was emphasized as a key driver of progress.

Beyond Words, into Action:

ABF 2024 wasn’t just about discussions; it translated ambition into tangible outcomes. Some of the announced initiatives include:

• Launch of new ESTI-focused programs: Several funding commitments and programs aimed at boosting research, innovation, and entrepreneurship were launched.
• Establishment of collaborative platforms: Dedicated platforms were created to facilitate knowledge sharing, resource mobilization, and partnership building within the ESTI space.

A Shared Future:

ABF 2024 concluded with a renewed sense of optimism and a collective commitment to harnessing the power of ESTI to transform Africa. While challenges remain, the forum provided a crucial platform for collaboration, innovation, and action. As Africa sets its sights on a brighter future, the echoes of ABF 2024 will serve as a guiding light on the path towards success.

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