ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed highlighted the critical role of regional and continental integration in diversifying economies and fostering peaceful coexistence in Africa during the 37th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Heads of State and Government of the African Union.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, strong regional and continental frameworks are necessary to address national development challenges effectively, considering geographical logistics and security aspects. He underscored the importance of enhancing infrastructural connectivity through the development of roads, airports, ports, rail networks, pipelines, and communication networks to link communities, boost trade, and facilitate economic integration across the continent.
The Prime Minister stressed the foundational need for peace and stability as prerequisites for economic and social development. He remarked on the transformative changes the world is experiencing due to geopolitical competition, economic challenges, climate change, and technological advancements. While celebrating the African Union’s permanent membership at the G20, Abiy pointed out the need to address significant questions that remain unanswered.
Reflecting on the historical impact of colonialism on Africa’s development trajectory, Abiy emphasized the importance of acknowledging and understanding the continent’s past to move forward with greater determination and dignity. He highlighted Africa’s abundant natural and human resources, advocating for self-reliance over dependency on aid.
Education was identified as a key driver for sustainable development and rapid growth. Abiy detailed Ethiopia’s progress in expanding access to education, including the construction of over 30,000 schools and significant investments in secondary education and technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programs to enhance quality and meet labor market demands.
The Prime Minister also touched on the potential of new technologies and innovative learning models to propel the continent forward, citing artificial intelligence’s role in delivering personalized learning experiences that transcend cultural and language barriers.
Addressing financial challenges, Abiy called for a reevaluation of the international financial architecture to better serve the needs of Africa, emphasizing the continent’s growing financing needs due to climate change and the cost of living crisis. He urged major financial agencies to adapt to the realities faced by middle and low-income countries.
As Africa moves towards a digital economy with a rapidly increasing number of mobile data users, Abiy advocated for a robust pan-African data governance strategy aligned with Agenda 2063’s principles. This approach, he argued, would enhance the continent’s competitiveness, ensure proactive data management, and protect individual rights.