Adesina Calls for Bold Action to Tackle Africa’s Challenges

Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), has called for decisive action to address Africa’s pressing challenges and unlock the continent’s full potential. Speaking at a recent international forum, Adesina urged African leaders, policymakers, and private sector stakeholders to move beyond rhetoric and take bold, strategic actions to address longstanding issues, including economic instability, food insecurity, climate change, and infrastructure deficits.

Addressing Economic Instability

Adesina highlighted Africa’s economic landscape, noting that while the continent’s growth rate has shown resilience, it remains vulnerable to external shocks, especially as global markets and economies face volatility. He emphasized the need for robust economic policies that can withstand these pressures, stressing the importance of strengthening Africa’s financial systems to increase resilience.

“We cannot afford to be spectators in our own economies,” Adesina remarked. “We must build economic systems that are not only reactive but proactive, ensuring we are prepared for shifts in global markets. This means embracing policies that promote sustainable growth, leveraging Africa’s resources, and creating favorable conditions for investment.”

According to the AfDB President, creating a stable economic environment is crucial for unlocking Africa’s immense potential, particularly in sectors such as technology, agribusiness, and manufacturing. He called on African leaders to implement policies that encourage entrepreneurship and private sector growth, noting that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have a significant role to play in job creation and economic transformation.Tackling Food Insecurity

One of the key issues Adesina addressed was Africa’s ongoing struggle with food insecurity. Despite having vast agricultural resources, many African nations remain dependent on food imports to meet their basic needs, a situation that Adesina believes can and must change. He urged African nations to invest in agricultural technology and infrastructure, to not only increase productivity but also ensure food security for the continent.

“Feeding Africa is not just a moral imperative; it is an economic necessity,” Adesina said. “We must invest in our agriculture, our farmers, and our agri-businesses. We need innovation and smart technology to boost productivity and make Africa a global player in food production and distribution.”

Under his leadership, the AfDB has launched initiatives such as the “Feed Africa” program, which aims to transform the continent’s agriculture sector by promoting the use of modern farming techniques, improving access to finance for farmers, and expanding market access. By investing in these areas, Adesina believes Africa can achieve food self-sufficiency, reduce import dependence, and generate millions of jobs, especially in rural areas.

### Responding to Climate Change

Africa’s vulnerability to climate change is another critical concern raised by Adesina. With the continent facing more frequent and severe droughts, floods, and other climate-related events, the AfDB President emphasized the urgency of taking proactive measures to mitigate and adapt to climate impacts.

“Africa contributes less than 4% to global emissions but suffers some of the worst impacts of climate change,” Adesina noted. “It is essential that African countries have the resources and support they need to build resilience, particularly in agriculture, water resources, and infrastructure.”

To address climate change, Adesina called on developed nations to fulfill their commitments to climate financing for Africa, urging wealthier nations to bridge the funding gap for climate resilience projects on the continent. He also highlighted the AfDB’s own commitment to promoting renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and environmental conservation projects across Africa. The bank’s “Desert to Power” initiative, for example, aims to harness solar energy across the Sahel region, providing clean energy to millions of people while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

### Bridging Infrastructure Deficits

The lack of infrastructure, including roads, railways, and power supply, continues to hinder Africa’s economic growth and regional integration. Adesina noted that without adequate infrastructure, businesses struggle to operate efficiently, trade is impeded, and economic development remains stagnant.

He pointed to the AfDB’s efforts to close Africa’s infrastructure gap, noting that the bank has committed billions of dollars to various projects across the continent. “The AfDB has prioritized infrastructure development because it is the backbone of economic growth and social development,” Adesina explained. “Without reliable infrastructure, we cannot have competitive industries, efficient trade, or accessible healthcare and education.”

To make significant progress, Adesina called for a coordinated approach, involving both the public and private sectors, to ensure that infrastructure projects are sustainable, inclusive, and well-maintained. He urged African governments to work together on cross-border infrastructure projects, especially in transport and energy, to foster regional integration and facilitate trade across the continent.

### Unlocking the Potential of Africa’s Youth

Adesina also emphasized the need to invest in Africa’s youth, whom he described as the continent’s greatest asset. With more than 60% of Africa’s population under the age of 25, empowering young people through education, skills development, and access to finance is crucial for the continent’s future.

“Africa’s young people are vibrant, innovative, and ready to drive change,” Adesina stated. “We must invest in their education, provide opportunities for skills development, and create an environment where they can thrive.”

Through programs like the Jobs for Youth in Africa (JfYA) initiative, the AfDB aims to create 25 million jobs and equip 50 million young people with skills for work over the next decade. The initiative seeks to address youth unemployment, which remains a major challenge in many African countries, by focusing on high-growth sectors such as agriculture, ICT, and services.

### The Path Forward

In closing, Adesina underscored the importance of collaborative action, both within Africa and with international partners. He emphasized that addressing Africa’s challenges requires a united approach, leveraging resources, expertise, and commitment from all stakeholders.

“We must not wait for solutions to come from outside Africa. The answers to our challenges lie within us,” Adesina said. “It is time for Africa to take ownership of its development and work together toward a brighter future.”

Adesina’s call for bold, strategic action reflects his dedication to transforming Africa and making it a global economic powerhouse. As Africa faces a complex set of challenges, his vision provides a roadmap for sustainable growth and development, empowering African nations to rise to their full potential and create a prosperous future for generations to come.