Africa urged to turn resilience into economic power

African nations are urged to convert their resilience into a powerful engine for sustainable economic growth, a key takeaway from the 2026 African Economic Conference hosted by the African Development Bank (AfDB), the UN Development Programme (UNDP), and the OECD.

In an international landscape marked by geopolitical tensions, trade disruptions, and financial uncertainties, the continent is called upon to move beyond mere adaptation. The AfDB, UNDP, and OECD emphasize that this transition hinges on fostering local value creation. Developing industrial transformation, strengthening regional value chains, and attracting greater investment are crucial steps to lessen African economies' dependence on raw material exports.

Institutions also highlighted the need to enhance public policy quality to cultivate an environment conducive to business, innovation, and employment. Improved governance, coupled with targeted investments, is seen as essential for stimulating inclusive growth. The clear ambition is to build upon the resilience African economies have shown during recent crises, establishing a foundation for productive, commercial, and financial strength capable of safeguarding the continent's interests in an increasingly fragmented global order.