ADDIS ABABA, Nov. 21 (Xinhua) -- The African Union (AU), the UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) have called for unified efforts to strengthen industrial resilience in Africa. This appeal was made in a joint statement on the occasion of Africa Industrialization Day, celebrated annually on Nov. 20.
The organizations reaffirmed their commitment to promoting inclusive, sustainable, and resilient industrialization as essential for Africa's structural transformation. They emphasized that industrialization is vital for addressing socioeconomic challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
The joint statement highlighted the need for Africa to build resilient industries capable of withstanding global supply chain disruptions, geopolitical conflicts, and environmental challenges. It stressed the importance of diversifying Africa's industrial base and leveraging its natural resources, youthful population, and emerging technologies.
Furthermore, the organizations called for creating favorable conditions for investment in infrastructure, skill development, and industrial productivity, recognizing the private sector's role in fostering innovation and competitiveness.
In line with the AU's Agenda 2063, the statement urged stakeholders to collaborate to accelerate Africa's industrialization, aiming for greater economic resilience, social equity, and environmental sustainability. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the need for Africa to harness technology for inclusive and sustainable development.