The much-anticipated 8th PIDA Week has officially opened, uniting leaders, experts, and stakeholders to address the transformative potential of infrastructure in shaping Africa’s future. This year’s theme, “Fostering Resilient and Inclusive Infrastructure for Africa’s Sustainable Growth: Leveraging Transformative Financing and Regional Integration,” reflects the critical role of infrastructure in achieving Agenda 2063, Africa’s blueprint for sustainable development and economic transformation.
H.E. Dr. Alemu Sime, Minister of Transport and Logistics of Ethiopia, delivered a compelling address, highlighting the urgency of collective action and innovative solutions:
“The infrastructure we develop today will shape the economic and social fabric of our nations and our continent for generations to come. By investing in resilient infrastructure, we ensure that our communities can thrive even amidst adversity. Our projects must serve all segments of society, especially marginalized communities, while enhancing regional integration and economic growth across borders.”
In his opening remarks, H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, underscored the importance of innovative financing mechanisms:
“To drive sustainable growth, we must re-establish PIDA as a symbol of resilience and impact, attracting diverse financing. By mobilising public and private funds, including pension funds, we should prioritise climate resilience and inclusiveness.”
PIDA plays a pivotal role in advancing Agenda 2063, providing a strategic framework to address the continent’s infrastructure deficits—essential for industrialisation, trade, and regional integration. PIDA’s projects have already delivered impactful results, enhancing transport networks, power systems, water infrastructure, and digital connectivity, directly contributing to Africa’s trade capacity and economic cooperation.
H.E. Mrs. Nardos Bekele-Thomas, CEO of AUDA-NEPAD, emphasized the transformative nature of infrastructure development:
“The ultimate purpose of PIDA goes beyond building roads and power grids. Its true value lies in transforming lives, enabling opportunities, and inspiring hope across Africa. Thus, the focus must be on empowering people, fostering industries, and fuelling growth. To achieve this, we urge the private sector to invest in these vital projects, as AUDA-NEPAD plays a pivotal role in de-risking infrastructure investments and ensuring their successful implementation.”
H.E. Dr. Amani Abou-Zeid, African Union Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, celebrated PIDA’s role in fostering regional collaboration and integration:
“By fostering collaboration among African countries, PIDA has created a framework driving infrastructure development across Africa. PIDA’s successful projects have improved road networks, expanded power generation, developed water systems, and advanced digital infrastructure.”
Reflecting on her tenure, Dr. Abou-Zeid added, “As I near the end of my second term as Commissioner of Infrastructure, PIDA holds a special place in my heart. It was during my term that PIDA PAP 2 was planned and finalized. I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone for their dedication and persistence in ensuring that PIDA projects come to life. It is truly rewarding to witness the impact of these initiatives and the hope they inspire for a brighter future.”
H.E. Mr. Claver Gatete, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa, reinforced the link between infrastructure and Africa’s competitiveness:
“Africa’s infrastructure deficit reduces its annual economic growth by 2% and cuts productivity by as much as 40%. Infrastructure endowment is vital for industrialisation, trade, and regional integration. Closing this gap requires strengthening national ownership of PIDA projects and leveraging opportunities such as the African Continental Free Trade Area.”
Concluding the opening session, the President of Ethiopia called for renewed commitment to PIDA’s mission. He stressed the importance of harmonised policies, innovative financing, and transformative digital technology to revolutionise trade and drive economic integration:
“PIDA represents a beacon of Africa’s potential to transform trade and uplift its people. By prioritising infrastructure, we unlock opportunities to revolutionise our economies and build a sustainable future. PIDA is a key enabler of Agenda 2063, and it holds the power to shape Africa’s development trajectory.”
With the ambitious goals of PIDA and Agenda 2063 in mind, the private sector plays a crucial role in driving transformative infrastructure projects across the continent. Strategic partnerships and investments from both local and international businesses are key to unlocking Africa’s full potential and securing the future of resilient, sustainable infrastructure development.
As PIDA Week 2024 unfolds, the focus remains on infrastructure as a catalyst for sustainable development, economic growth, and an improved quality of life for all Africans. With Agenda 2063 as the guiding vision, PIDA is leading the charge in building a connected, inclusive, and prosperous Africa.
