Luanda: Angola’s Finance Minister Vera Daves de Sousa pointed out on Thursday in Luanda that climate instability, rising debt, and changes in the geopolitical alliances of African countries are the main challenges to making the continent more resilient. The minister, who was speaking at the 25th general assembly of the African Trade and Investment Development Insurance Institution (ATIDI), described the current global scenario as one of economic uncertainty.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the continent’s most urgent challenge is to redefine how countries finance development, build resilient economies, and deepen regional integration. The minister emphasized the need to understand, share, and manage risks wisely, which requires a robust ecosystem of institutions such as ATIDI. These institutions can provide financial tools and risk mitigation instruments to unlock private capital, support infrastructure development, and drive sustainable investment in various sectors.
As leaders, she stressed, “We must rise to the challenge of shaping institutions that are not only reactive but visionary, anticipating risks, unlocking transformative capital, and catalyzing inclusive and sustainable development for Africa.’ The minister urged the 24 ATIDI member countries present at the event to commit to redefining the investment narrative in Africa so that capital effectively reaches the sectors that matter most.
Vera Daves highlighted the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as one of the most transformative initiatives of this generation, creating a single market of more than 1.4 billion people. She noted that this market has the potential to boost intra-African trade, industrialization, and economic diversification on the continent. However, she pointed out that for this vision to become a reality, it is necessary to ensure confidence in investment, robust risk mitigation, and effective cross-border collaboration.
According to the minister, institutions such as ATIDI have a decisive role to play in the practical implementation of the AfCFTA, not only by offering credit and investment insurance but also by promoting the predictability and confidence that businesses and investors need to expand across borders. The minister expressed hope that the event would serve as a platform for commitment and reflection among the countries present, the 13 financial institutions, and other partners participating in the 25th ATIDI General Assembly.
‘May this assembly deliberate decisions and a commitment to innovation, partnership, and transformation of Africa’s risk landscape into a solid foundation for prosperity, in a clear contribution to a stronger continent,’ she said. The meeting, which runs until the 21st of this month, brings together high-level representatives from 24 member states, 13 shareholders, development finance institutions, and strategic partners to reflect on progress, strengthen partnerships, and shape the future of ATIDI. The general assembly is being held under the motto ‘transforming risk into opportunity, ensuring a sustainable future.’