Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – March 12–18 /2025 The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, successfully hosted the 57th Session of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) Conference of Ministers of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development (COM). The conference, held under the theme .Advancing the Implementation of the Agreement Establishing the African
Continental Free Trade Area: Proposing Transformative Strategic Actions. brought together key stakeholders to discuss critical issues such as digitalization, technology, food security, and energy transformation.
The event, which took place a week , saw the participation of African finance, planning, and trade ministers, central bank governors, regional institutions, development partners, and representatives from non-governmental organizations and the private sector. The conference aimed to accelerate the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and propose actionable strategies to drive economic growth and development across the continent.
March 17-18 /2025 session minstrels opening meeting was graced by notable figures who played pivotal roles in shaping the discussions and outcomes. Among them were:
1. President of The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Taye Atske-Sellassie Amde who delivered the official opening address, calling for collective action to harness Africa’s potential.
The conference focused on several critical themes, including:
Advancing the AfCFTA: Participants discussed strategies to accelerate the implementation of the AfCFTA, emphasizing the need for transformative policies to boost intra-African trade and economic integration.
– African nations should also focus on foundational development investments,
value-added productivity, Pan-African research development, transparent and inclusive investment frameworks, and enhancing digital economy capabilities, he added. and importance of working extensively on the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), foundational development connectivity, job creation, women’s participation, and strengthening regional digital trade systems.
2. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf – Chairperson of the African Union Commission, who highlighted the role of regional cooperation in achieving sustainable development.
3. Claver Gatete – Executive Secretary of the ECA, who underscored the need for innovative solutions to address Africa’s economic challenges.
4. Mthuli Ncube – Chair of the outgoing Bureau and Minister of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion of Zimbabwe.
5. Wamkele Mene – Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, who emphasized the importance of trade liberalization and economic integration.
6. Lerato Natasha Mbele – An international broadcaster and founder of Moon Landing Media, who served as the Master of Ceremonies for the event.
The event underscored the importance of collaboration among African nations, regional institutions, and development partners to drive sustainable economic growth and development. As Africa continues to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing
global economy, the outcomes of this conference are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the continent’s future.
The 57th Session of the ECA Conference of Ministers of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development marked a significant milestone in Africa’s journey toward economic integration and sustainable development. With a strong emphasis on
innovation, collaboration, and transformative action, the conference set the stage for a brighter future for the continent. As Africa looks ahead to the 58th Session in Morocco, the momentum generated by this year’s discussions will undoubtedly continue to drive progress and prosperity across the region.
Emebet Asefa , Correspondent
Addis Ababa , Ethiopia/
