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President Hichilema arrives in Ethiopia ahead to AU Summit

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President Hichilema arrives in Ethiopia ahead to AU Summit

President Hakainde Hichilema has arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to attend the 37th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union.

The plane carrying the President touched down at Bole International Airport at exactly 18:30 hours local time.

He was received by Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister for Agriculture Girma Amente, Zambia’s Acting Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe and Zambia’s Ambassador to Ethiopia Rose Sakala.

The summit which officially opens on Saturday, February 17th, is being held under the theme “Educate an African Fit for the 21st Century, Building Resilient Education Systems for Increased Access to Inclusive, Lifelong, Quality, and Relevant Learning in Africa”.

While in Ethiopia, President Hichilema is expected to attend several meetings, to include the Heads of State and Government Dialogue on Establishing African Union Financial Institutions, as well as the meeting of the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on climate change.

President Hichilema is also expected to hold strategic bilateral meetings on matters of mutual interest, for the benefit of the Zambian people.

The summit has been preceded by the 44th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council, which is the Session of Ministers of the African Union, which commenced on February 14 and closed on February 15, 2024.

The President is accompanied to Ethiopia by Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima, Minister of Technology and Science, Felix Mutati, Minister of Information and Media Cornelius Mweetwa, Minister of Commerce Trade and Industry Chipoka Mulenga and Minister of Health Sylvia Masebo.

The President is expected back in the country after concluding is engagements in Ethiopia.

Putin Critic Alexei Navalny, 47, Dies In Arctic Circle Jail

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Putin Critic Alexei Navalny, 47, Dies In Arctic Circle Jail

Alexei Navalny, Russia’s prominent opposition figure and a relentless critic of President Vladimir Putin, has tragically passed away in a jail located in the Arctic Circle, as confirmed by the prison service.

Navalny, widely regarded as Putin’s most vocal adversary, was serving a 19-year prison sentence on charges widely denounced as politically motivated. He had been transferred to one of Russia’s harshest penal colonies late last year.

The prison service in the Yamalo-Nenets district reported that Navalny had suddenly fallen ill after a walk on Friday. Despite immediate efforts by emergency medical personnel to resuscitate him, Navalny lost consciousness and was pronounced dead. The exact cause of his death is currently under investigation.

The shocking news comes just a day after Navalny was last seen during a court hearing via video link, appearing in good health and high spirits.

Navalny’s mother, upon hearing the news, expressed disbelief, stating, “We saw him in prison on 12th [February], in a meeting. He was alive, healthy, and happy.”

Following the announcement of Navalny’s death, international leaders and organizations swiftly condemned the incident, emphasizing Navalny’s courage in standing up against Russian authorities.

France characterized Navalny’s death as the result of his resistance against Russian “oppression,” while Norway’s foreign minister held Russian authorities accountable for the tragedy.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking from Munich, labeled Navalny’s death as indicative of the “weakness and rot” within Putin’s regime, placing responsibility squarely on Russia.

In response to the outcry, Dmitry Peskov, Putin’s spokesman, stated that the president had been informed of Navalny’s death and emphasized the need for medical professionals to determine the cause.

UK Foreign Minister David Cameron condemned Putin’s regime, underscoring the severity of Navalny’s demise as a stark reminder of the oppressive nature of the Russian government.

Zambian Swimmer Mia Phiri Breaks National Record at World Aquatics Championships

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Zambian Swimmer Mia Phiri Breaks National Record at World Aquatics Championships

Mia Phiri, the rising star in Zambian swimming, has made headlines once again by setting a new national record in the 50m backstroke event at the ongoing World Aquatics Championships in Doha.

Phiri’s outstanding performance earned her the 5th position, clocking an impressive time of 29.61 seconds, surpassing her previous personal best of 30.17 seconds. Her remarkable achievement not only showcases her exceptional talent but also highlights her relentless dedication to the sport.

Raphael Mulenga, the Secretary General of the National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ), extended his heartfelt congratulations to Phiri on behalf of the organization. Mulenga praised Phiri for her extraordinary accomplishment, emphasizing her unwavering commitment, talent, and perseverance.

In his statement, Mulenga emphasized that Phiri has not only made history but has also become a symbol of pride for Zambia on the international stage. Her stellar performance serves as inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country, highlighting the potential and talent within Zambia’s sports community.

Phiri’s success at the World Aquatics Championships underscores the growing prominence of Zambian athletes on the global stage and reaffirms the country’s commitment to nurturing sporting excellence.

As Mia Phiri continues to make waves in the world of swimming, all eyes are on her future endeavors, with expectations running high for even greater achievements on the international stage.

Kwacha Surges Against Major Currencies on Foreign Exchange Market

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Kwacha Surges Against Major Currencies on Foreign Exchange Market

The Kwacha has staged an impressive rally on the foreign exchange market, reaching K23.46 after weeks of trading at levels exceeding K26 and K27. A survey conducted by the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) across various bureaus confirmed that the dollar was being bought at K23 and sold at K23.46.

Market analysts and economists have pointed to governmental and central bank interventions as key drivers behind this sudden appreciation.

Ronald Mwanza, the Chief Executive Officer of the Bankers Association of Zambia (BAZ), attributed the Kwacha’s appreciation to recent actions taken by both the government and the central bank. Mwanza specifically highlighted the increase in the statutory reserve ratio, explaining that the government’s decision to raise this ratio was in response to sustained high demand for foreign exchange. This move, according to Mwanza, has effectively tightened liquidity in the market and supported the Kwacha’s upward trajectory.

Economist Noel Nkoma echoed Mwanza’s sentiments, emphasizing the fiscal measures implemented by the government. Nkoma noted that the government’s decision to withdraw excess liquidity from commercial banks has created space for the Kwacha to strengthen further.

The recent surge in the Kwacha comes on the heels of the Bank of Zambia’s decision earlier this month to raise the statutory reserve ratio from 17 percent to 26 percent, which came into effect on February 5th. This move signaled a proactive approach by authorities to address the challenges posed by high demand for foreign currency.

The sudden turnaround in the Kwacha’s fortunes has been met with optimism among market participants and stakeholders, who view it as a positive development for Zambia’s economy. However, analysts caution that sustained efforts will be required to maintain this momentum and ensure stability in the foreign exchange market.

As the Kwacha continues its upward trajectory, attention now turns to the effectiveness of ongoing fiscal and monetary measures in supporting its gains and fostering economic growth in Zambia.

KCM Provisional Liquidator Corrects Misleading Media Report by Diamond TV

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KCM Provisional Liquidator Corrects Misleading Media Report by Diamond TV

Celine Nair, the Official Receiver and Provisional Liquidator for Konkola Copper Mines Plc (KCM), has moved to clarify a recent report aired by Diamond Television news bulletin on 15th February 2024. Nair emphasized that the report contained inaccuracies and selectively presented information from an ongoing court matter.

Nair asserted that she had not issued any official statement regarding the transitional matters concerning KCM, particularly concerning the resolution between the government and Vedanta Resources Limited. The current focus is on the implementation of the Scheme of Arrangement, which aims to facilitate Vedanta’s complete takeover of KCM.

Addressing the ongoing process, Nair highlighted that the transition to Vedanta’s ownership is proceeding through a court-monitored procedure. She reassured stakeholders that once finalized, all creditors would be duly compensated in accordance with the agreed scheme.

Nair informed creditors to ensure their records are updated, as meetings will soon commence for verification and payment processes. She noted Vedanta’s contribution of $25 million as bridging finance to support KCM’s short-term operations.

In light of these developments, Nair urged stakeholders not to panic, emphasizing collaboration between the government, Vedanta Resources Limited, and KCM management to ensure a smooth transition.

Regarding the Diamond TV report, Nair criticized its misleading headline and stressed the importance of accurate reporting, especially considering the efforts to revitalize Zambia’s mining sector. She cautioned the public against adopting the narrative of KCM’s imminent closure.

Shapi Shachinda, General Manager Corporate Affairs, issued this statement on behalf of KCM, underlining the commitment of all parties involved to facilitate Vedanta’s full takeover of KCM and restore stability to the mining industry.

Statement Regarding Ongoing Challenges in Securing Civil Service Employment

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Statement Regarding Ongoing Challenges in Securing Civil Service Employment

I am writing to express my profound concern and distress over what appears to be a recurring pattern of exclusion from employment opportunities within the forestry sector of the Zambian civil service. Despite my qualifications and ongoing efforts since my graduation in 2009, I have yet to be shortlisted for any position in this sector, an issue that seems to be shared among several of my peers, particularly those specializing in forestry.

This persistent challenge has led me to speculate on the factors contributing to our collective inability to secure employment within the government services, despite the change in political leadership and promises of a more inclusive and fair hiring process. Initially, I attributed the difficulty to the political and professional climate under the previous administration, which posed challenges for forestry professionals. However, the continuation of these issues under the new administration has prompted me to reconsider the root causes of this exclusion.

In an effort to advocate for change and highlight the plight of forestry professionals in Zambia, I have engaged in article writing and research, aiming to use my voice to bring attention to these systemic issues. Unfortunately, this approach has not yielded the desired change, and it has been suggested to me that my outspokenness may have inadvertently affected my employment prospects.

Additionally, my experience as a registrar at the Veterinary Council of Zambia further exemplifies the challenges I have faced in my professional endeavors. Despite being initially shortlisted for re-engagement, I was ultimately not selected, under circumstances that I believe were influenced by external pressures aimed at undermining my candidacy and professional reputation.

There is also a concern that personal biases, including those based on ethnic origins, may be influencing the selection process, a deeply troubling notion that, if true, undermines the principles of fairness and equality.

I am making this statement not only as a personal account of my experiences but also as a call to action for a more transparent, inclusive, and equitable hiring process within the Zambian civil service. It is my hope that by bringing these issues to light, there can be a concerted effort to address and rectify the underlying problems, ensuring that all qualified candidates, regardless of their background or personal beliefs, have an equal opportunity to serve their country.

I trust that this matter will be taken seriously and that steps will be taken to investigate and address the concerns raised.

Sincerely,

Chaliafya katungula

Poor Hygiene At Pick N Pay Levy Mall

Chief Editor
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Poor Hygiene At Pick N Pay Levy Mall

Dear Editor

I had a bad experience at Pick N Pay Levy Mall.

I bought some bun rolls and noticed two strands of hair baked inside and sticking out of the buns,even before I opened the package. Then I took it back with the receipt and asked to see the manager but they brushed me off and said the manager was occupied and couldn’t see me.

They instead asked me to fill in a customer complaint form and leave it with them.

Additionally,they stated that I should exchange the buns for other ones,and treated the matter very lightly.

They denied me to see the manager and dismissed me.

Disappointed Customer

North -West Authorities Source Land For New Airport

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North-western Province Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary Tradeson Mulofwa says the Provincial Administration is considering sourcing new land for the construction of the new airport.

Speaking when a delegation from the Ministry of Transport and Logistics paid a courtesy call on him, Mr Mulofwa said looking at the rate at which the province is growing there is a need to have two airports.

“We thought it would be good to have alternative land where a big airport will be constructed so that this one becomes a city airport” Mr Mulofwa stated.

He said with barriers such as land encroachment and the gully forming around the current airport, kick starting the expansion project is being delayed.

“We are told that resources for the expansion of the airport are readily available but the current challenges are causing a delay, this is why we are looking at other options” Mr Mulofwa stated.

Mr Mulofwa however stated that encroachers such as the churches have already been talked to and they agreed to move out to the alternative land that was allocated to them.

“The people, especially the churches that have built around the airport land have already been talked to, what is remaining is us taking action so that they see that we are serious” Mr Mulofwa said.

Meanwhile, Ministry of Transport and Logistics Director of Transport Nkumbu Siame said they are in the province to follow up with the council to see the progress they have made in resolving the problems.

Minister Warns of Impacts of Prolonged Dry Spell on Agriculture and Energy

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Minister Warns of Impacts of Prolonged Dry Spell on Agriculture and Energy

Collins Nzovu, the Minister of Green Economy and Environment, has issued a stark warning regarding the prolonged dry spell currently affecting Zambia, highlighting its potential detrimental effects on agriculture productivity, water availability, and power generation.

According to Mr. Nzovu, the extended period of reduced rainfall is expected to have significant repercussions on agricultural activities. Crops such as maize, soya beans, and other staples are particularly vulnerable, as they require adequate moisture during crucial growth stages. The dry conditions may lead to water stress, wilting, and yield losses, ultimately impacting food security.

Addressing the National Assembly in a ministerial statement on the performance of the 2023-2024 rainfall season and the ongoing dry spell, Mr. Nzovu noted that the situation, observed since January 20, 2024, is likely to persist throughout February, particularly in the southern regions of the country.

Furthermore, Mr. Nzovu expressed concerns over the dwindling water levels in major reservoirs like Kariba, Kafue Gorge, and Itezhi-Tezhi. He warned that this could result in reduced power generation, leading to increased load shedding, energy shortages, and disruptions in the coming months unless the situation improves.

In response to the looming crisis, the government intends to issue a comprehensive report analyzing the impacts of the dry conditions on agriculture, food security, water, and energy. The report will include recommendations for targeted interventions aimed at supporting affected communities and mitigating adverse effects.

Mr. Nzovu also urged farmers to closely monitor weather updates and adjust their farming practices accordingly. He emphasized the importance of implementing water conservation measures such as mulching and proper soil management to optimize water usage, especially in areas experiencing rainfall deficits and low soil moisture levels.

Chitimukulu Impressed With Good Crop Performance

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Chitimukulu Impressed With Good Crop Performance

Paramount Chief Chitimukulu of the Bemba People has expressed happiness with the good crop performance in the Northern Region.

The paramount chief noted that the performance of the crop in the Northern Province is impressive and encouraging.
He attributed the good crop performance to the favorable weather pattern and the timely delivery of farming inputs to the region.

ZANIS reports that Chief Chitimukulu said many farmers who are on the government supported input programme planted their crops on time as they were given inputs early.

He praised the government for supporting the growth of the agricultural sector in the region.
The paramount chief encouraged more people in the region to take advantage of the favourable rainfall pattern and engage in farming.

He also called on agronomists to do some research on other crops that are drought-resilient and can withstand the weather being experienced in other regions of the country.
The paramount chief urged farmers in the region not to sell their produce to briefcase buyers but leave enough for their home consumption.

Meanwhile, Alfredo Mutila, a beneficiary of the Food Security Pack (FSP) program under the Ministry of Community Development and Social Security, said he received the inputs on time and his crops are performing well.
Mr Mutila said he is confident of a good harvest this season, which will also result in more food for his family.
He said the FSP programme is a good initiative by the government that is changing the lives of vulnerable people in society.
Mr Mutila further encouraged other beneficiaries to ensure they conserve food for their families so that the program can achieve its intended target.

Former Socialist Party Spokesperson Frank Bwalya Defects to UPND, Joined by Other Political Figures

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Former Socialist Party Spokesperson Frank Bwalya Defects to UPND, Joined by Other Political Figures

In a notable shift within the political landscape, former Socialist Party Spokesperson Frank Bwalya announced his defection to the United Party for National Development (UPND), citing President Hakainde Hichilema’s visionary leadership as his primary motivation.

Mr. Bwalya, who previously served as Ambassador to Australia under the Patriotic Front (PF) administration, expressed his commitment to advancing President Hichilema’s developmental agenda and working diligently to spread awareness of the party’s vision.

Joining Mr. Bwalya at the same event was Patriotic Front member Patrick Samwimbila, who also defected to the UPND, emphasizing his readiness to serve both the party and the people of Zambia to foster development.

Additionally, Democratic Christian Party Deputy Secretary General Cosmas Chileshe made the decision to join the UPND, affirming his support for President Hichilema’s leadership and his vision to elevate Zambia to a middle-income nation through focused governance.

Jairos Zulu of the Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD) also aligned himself with the UPND, pledging to collaborate closely with party structures to advance its goals.

Welcoming the defectors in the presence of President Hakainde Hichilema, UPND Lusaka Province Chairperson Obvious Mwaliteta urged the new members to contribute to maintaining peace and unity within both the party and the country as a whole.

President Hakainde Hichilema commissions Anderson Mazoka Party Secretariat

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President Hakainde Hichilema commissions Anderson Mazoka Party Secretariat

In a significant milestone for the United Party for National Development (UPND), the party officially opened its new secretariat accompanied by a fervent call for unity among its members.

The newly unveiled secretariat, named in honor of the party’s founding President, Anderson Mazoka, stands as a testament to the dedication and perseverance of UPND members over the past 25 years. Party leaders expressed gratitude to members nationwide for their contributions towards the construction of this remarkable edifice, urging them to utilize it as a cornerstone in the realization of the party’s vision for the future.

Addressing attendees at the inauguration ceremony, UPND President Hakainde Hichilema highlighted the arduous journey the party has traversed to attain governance, a path marked by sacrifices, including the loss of lives. President Hichilema emphasized that this is not a time for complacency but a call to redouble efforts towards enhancing the well-being of Zambian citizens.

Dispelling calls for an early election, President Hichilema asserted that his administration has delivered on its campaign promises, citing the establishment of a peaceful environment throughout the country. He warned against reverting to previous administrations, cautioning that it would risk the resurgence of violence, particularly in public spaces such as markets and bus stations.

President Hichilema urged UPND members to remain peaceful and united, highlighting the party’s role in fostering a harmonious co-existence among citizens. He encouraged members to familiarize themselves with the party’s history, documented through images displayed within the new secretariat, and to actively promote the party’s agenda, including initiatives for free education, civil service recruitment, and timely pension payments.

Vice President Mutale Nalumango echoed President Hichilema’s sentiments, calling on UPND members to continue supporting his visionary leadership. She lauded the President’s efforts in creating job opportunities and championing initiatives such as free education and the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

UPND Secretary General Batuke Imenda expressed gratitude to President Hichilema for his vision in urging the party to acquire property and become self-reliant. He credited the President for facilitating the realization of the new secretariat.

The event also witnessed the defection of several notable figures, including former Socialist Party Spokesperson Frank Bwalya, Patriotic Front member Patrick Samwimbila, and Democratic Christian Party Deputy Secretary General Cosmas Chileshe, who joined the ranks of the UPND.

UPND Lusaka Province Chairperson Obvious Mwaliteta welcomed the new members, urging them to collaborate in upholding peace and unity within the party and the nation at large.

The inauguration of the new UPND Secretariat signifies not only a physical infrastructure development but also a symbol of the party’s unwavering commitment to progress, unity, and service to the Zambian people.

Tanzania, Zambia sign MOU To Address Illegal Migration Drug Trafficking

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Tanzania, Zambia sign MOU To Address Illegal Migration Drug Trafficking

Zambia and the United Republic of Tanzania have signed two Memorandums of Understanding to strengthen cooperation in Immigration matters and combating drug abuse and trafficking.

The MOU was signed at the just ended Second Session of the Tanzania-Zambia Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security in Unguja, Zanzibar.

Minister of Defence Ambrose Lufuma was accompanied by the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Affairs Jack Mwiimbu, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defence Norman Chipakupaku, Ministry of Home Affairs Permanent Secretary Joseph Akafumba, High Commissioner of Zambia in Tanzania Matthews Jere and other government officials at the JPC.
Mr Lufuma said that the two countries had convened to discuss pertinent issues that border on peace and security in both nations.

The Minister of Defence highlighted that both countries have been experiencing issues of drug and human trafficking as well as illegal immigration hence the agreements.

“As it is right now, we are faced with illegal migration, human trafficking, drug trafficking, trafficking of firearms and all those issues that tend to destabilise countries,” said Mr Lufuma.

The Minister of Defence urged both countries to ensure that the resolutions passed at the JPC are implemented within the agreed time frames.

And United Republic of Tanzania Minister of Defence and National Security Stergomena Tax said that the resolutions made at the second session are a continuation of the efforts of both Heads of State, Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan and President Hakainde Hichilema.

” As you may be aware both Presidents visited the two countries and a lot of issues were agreed upon, some of the agreements were in the Defence and Security sector, and instructions were given to us to ensure that the Agreements are implemented,” said Dr Tax .

She stated that because of Security concerns that exist in the region and in both countries, the JPC has put up strategies and signed agreements to help both countries address the insecurity.
Dr Tax observed that illegal immigration is another problem facing both Zambia and Tanzania who share a substantial long border.

“People come in through Tanzania without going through legal channels of Immigrants and enter into the country, this has to be curbed hence the agreements,” She said.

Dr Tax was accompanied at the JPC by Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defence and National Security Dr Faraji Mnyepe, Ministry of Home Affairs Permanent Secretary Kasper Kaspar Mmuya and other senior Government officials.
Meanwhile, Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwiimbu expressed gratitude to the Tanzanian Government for gifting Zambia with Twenty (20) Hector’s of Land at Kwala Dry Port in Tanzania.

Mr Mwiimbu said that the land will help enhance trade and commerce in Zambia.
He added that the land at Kwala Dry Port will enhance Zambia’s economy through trade and ensure smooth flow of imports and exports to Zambia.

“The 20 Hector’s of land given to Zambia by the President of Tanzania will help enhance trade and commerce,” said Mr Mwiimbu.

Tragic Accident Claims Lives of Two Illegal Miners in Chingola

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Tragic Accident Claims Lives of Two Illegal Miners in Chingola

Two illegal miners lost their lives after being struck by falling rocks while excavating for copper ore at the Luano Open pit mine in Chingola.

Copperbelt Police Commissioner Peacewell Mweemba disclosed that the fatal incident occurred between midnight and 01:00 hours on Wednesday. The victims were identified as Lucky Mutale, aged 20, and Joseph Musonda, aged 30.

According to Mr. Mweemba, the two miners were accompanied by other illegal miners at the time of the accident.

Despite the efforts of their fellow miners to rescue them, Lucky Mutale and Joseph Musonda succumbed to their injuries. They were swiftly transported to Nchanga North General Hospital, where they were officially pronounced dead.

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with illegal mining activities, which continue to claim lives and pose significant risks to individuals involved in such operations.

Building Resilient Education Systems for Increased access to Inclusive, Lifelong, Quality, and Relevant Learning in Africa

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Building Resilient Education Systems for Increased access to Inclusive, Lifelong, Quality, and Relevant Learning in Africa

By Albert M. Muchanga 

The 21st century is characterized by digitalization and artificial intelligence among other elements of technological development. In this era, Africa must not be left behind.

In many countries of the Global South, debt servicing obligations are higher than expenditures on education, health and sanitation, a factor that contributes to undermining the resilience of education systems in those countries. This challenge must be met to have resilient education systems in our countries.

Inclusivity in education is not assured for many people across Africa. Again, this is a challenge we must meet.

In the world of today, where change is the only constant, learning from the cradle to the grave is key to having a high quality of life. This means that lifelong learning is not a luxury. It is indispensable.

For our children of today and tomorrow, education that equips employability, including self-employment is of great relevance.

And in addition, the quality of education in Africa must meet the minimum global standards if its relevance is to go beyond our borders in this world of interdependency. Countries will continue to depend on each other through migration even as we undergo the disruption of global supply chains and the consequent fragmentation of international trade.

Having unpackaged the theme, the task now is to brief you on how the Department of Economic Development Trade Tourism Industry and Minerals is contributing to this theme.

Let me begin by saying that the Department has two Directorates and one Specialized Agency.

The Directorates are: Economic Development, Integration and Trade on one hand and Industry Minerals Entrepreneurship and Tourism on the other hand.

The Specialized Agency is the African Minerals Development Centre.

Selected important factors in socio-economic development in Africa

The selected examples are the following:

About 15.6 percent of employers in Africa identify inadequate education of the workforce as a major constraint for their businesses. The issue of relevance comes into play here.

In 2016, 45 percent of youth across 10 African countries felt that their skills were inappropriate for their current work (17 percent felt over-skilled and 28 percent under-skilled), while 38 percent indicated that their education was not useful in finding jobs. Again, the issue of relevance comes into play.

Due to population growth and increasing life expectancy, Africa’s working-age population is growing faster than formal employment opportunities. Africa has the world’s youngest population, with a median age of 19 years, compared to 30 for Latin America and the Caribbean, 31 for developing Asia and 42 for Europe. Longer life expectancies and higher overall levels of educational attainment further increase the share of the population participating in the workforce. Yet, the demand for labour does not match the growing supply. In 2020, over one in five African youth were not in employment, education, or training.

Workers in informal employment are often under-educated, while social skill gaps are prevalent in formal labour markets. The share of informal employment is likely to remain larger than that of formal employment. The African continent has a higher share of informal employment than any other world region: in 2021, the share of own-account workers and contributing family members of the total working population was 63.9 percent, compared to 33.9 percent for Latin America and the Caribbean and 44.9 percent for developing Asia.

Africa’s productive transformation is increasing the demand for foundational, soft, and technical skills

However, Africa’s productive transformation differs from the conventional growth patterns of developed countries or developing Asia. For example, the transition from low productivity to higher productivity in economic activities has not happened with the growth of manufacturing activities. By 2022, manufacturing accounted for only 11.8 percent of Africa’s GDP compared to 20.5 percent in developing Asia.

Manufacturing also employed about eight percent of the continent’s workforce, compared to 12 percent in developing Asia and 19 percent in China. In contrast, most of Africa’s labour force shifted from low-productivity agriculture to services activities such as retail trade, often in the informal sector. Nevertheless, growth in sectors such as agro-industries and horticulture, ICT-based services or tourism provides significant opportunities for job creation and productive transformation.

From these selected examples, African countries need to devise skills development policies that include their entire populations and identify specific opportunities for productivity-oriented skill development. To this end, the rest of the briefing shows what we are doing as a department to contribute to the 2024 theme.

The broad themes are:

• Protocol to the Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community Protocol to the Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community Relating to Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Right of Establishment

• Inclusive growth and sustainable development

• Entrepreneurship, innovation and digital transformation

• Development of regional and continental value chains

Protocol to the Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community Relating to Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Right of Establishment

Although prime advocacy for the signature and ratification of the Protocol to the Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community Relating to Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Right of Establishment lies with are sister departments of Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development on one hand and Political Affairs Peace and Security on the other hand, we have also joined in the advocacy because it is a key platform to creating an African Customs Union/Common.

We see stronger harmonization of qualification frameworks and skill accreditation programmes as being foundational for labour market integration across Africa as we move towards creasing a single African market, starting with the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Comparable qualifications frameworks are key building blocks of labour market integration. Their absence usher in non-tariff barriers in the labour sector.

In advocating for signature and ratification of the Protocol to the Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community Relating to Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Right of Establishment, we are also advocating for implementation of the African Union Continental Education Strategy for Africa 2016–2025 which stresses the need for continental qualifications frameworks linked to regional and national qualifications frameworks to facilitate regional integration and mobility of graduates.

We are fully aware that efforts towards harmonized qualification frameworks to facilitate quality assurance, skills accreditation, and credit transfer mechanisms require sustained country engagement, capacity, and resources.

We are however encouraged by the fact that existing regional qualifications frameworks spearheaded by economic communities such as ECOWAS, SADC, EAC, IGAD and non-governmental organizations such as the African and Malagasy Council for Higher Education and the Arab Network for Quality Assurance in Higher Education have laid the groundwork by removing restrictions on intra Africa mobility of skilled labour and creating comparable qualification frameworks that are moving us in the required direction.

Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development

The first aspiration of the African Union Agenda 2063 is: ‘A prosperous Africa, based on Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development’. One of the goals being followed under this aspiration is to have: ‘well educated citizens and skills revolution underpinned by Science, Technology and Innovation’.

In this respect, we are working in partnership with the African Development Bank and AUDA NEPAD on a study on key actions to achieve inclusive growth and sustainable development in Africa. The study is planned to be rolled out in July this year.

Some of the key actions envisaged are human capital development to promote, among others, employability, and productivity.

Furthermore, we realize that inclusive growth and sustainable development are driven by, among others, savings and investments. In this connection, the study will also identify measures to raise rates of economic growth across Africa to promote inclusiveness, savings, and investments.

A related activity is formulation of a strategy on export development and diversification. We plan to roll it out by the end of this year. The strategy is geared towards strengthening Africa’s exports to the rest of the world.

Currently, Africa’s share in global trade is less than 2.8%, an indicator of the low levels of productivity across Africa. Increasing Africa’s share of global trade anchored on value added exports will generate savings in the form of foreign exchange earnings. Consequently export development and diversification would greatly contribute to savings and investments growth in Africa.

We also have a programme on enhancing capacities for domestic resource mobilization. Again, this can be a source of savings, critical to investments in both human capital development and productive transformation.

Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Digital Transformation

The Assembly of the African Union Heads of State and Government adopted the Africa Commodity Strategy in 2022. The Strategy aims to promote value addition in the primary sectors of agriculture, mining, oil and gas and energy. Fundamentally, the value addition should be at source.

Skills development is key to promoting value addition. Let me briefly mention some of the activities that we are pursuing in this respect.

We have partnered with The African Capacity Building Foundation to commission a study on the establishment of an African Manufacturing Institute. This will be key to rapid development of industrial skills across Africa at all levels of the industrial value chain.

In addition, we have partnered with the African Business Council to promote skills development in the manufacture of jewelry.

Again, in partnership with Africa e Trade Group, African Export Import Bank and Google, we are implementing the African Union Youth Start-Up Programme to promote entrepreneurship, innovation and employment.

As part of the process of implementation of the theme for this year, we are also advocating that African countries increase investments in research and development to boost innovation as well as provide affordable financing to African Youth Start Up operators.

Our department is also contributing to the implementation of the Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa which runs from 2020 to 2030. The Strategy aims at creating an integrated and inclusive African digital society and economy that improves the quality of life for its citizens. In 2022, Member States validated the AU E-Commerce Strategy, which sets the tone for digital trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area. In addition, the department is currently doing a mapping exercise of e-commerce programmes at regional levels in anticipation of the development of the roadmaps and guidelines.

In line with our dedication to education, the department, through the African Minerals Development Centre will be initiating sensitization programs for the African Green Minerals Strategy when it is adopted by the African Union policy organs this year. This strategy aims to leverage Africa’s comparative advantages in strategic green minerals and renewable energy potential. Through these programs, our aim is to raise awareness and cultivate consensus among stakeholders regarding the importance of sustainable mineral resource management and value addition.

In addition, the African Minerals Development Centre will be conducting online courses on tenets of the African Mining Vision, specifically focusing on the African Minerals and Energy Resources Classification and Management System (AMREC) and the Pan African Resource Reporting Code (PARC).

These courses aim to educate the youth and industry players on the correlation between value addition, wealth creation, and mineral resources, as well as their classification.

PARC sets the benchmark for transparent and responsible reporting of mineral resources and reserves, while AMREC, a comprehensive system for managing Africa’s mineral and energy resources, aims for holistic value chain and project lifecycle management. Training on AMREC-PARC will empower AU Member States to adopt internationally recognized reporting standards, thereby enhancing investor confidence and promoting responsible mining practices.

Furthermore, work is underway to support and expand initiatives for electric vehicle and battery manufacturing, emphasizing the importance of retaining value within the continent. In this regard, the African Minerals Development Centre, in partnership with other African institutions, is supporting initiatives such as the establishment of a Centre of Excellence for Advanced Battery Research in Lubumbashi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The African Minerals Development Centre is also partnering with the Pan-African Decarbonization Institute (P-ADI) to provide leadership in the decarbonization value chain. It will contribute through research in the development of the whole value chain and transformation of energy systems in line with the green transition.

Development of Regional and Continental Value Chains

The department, in collaboration with the International Trade Centre (ITC) launched a Value Chain Diagnostic study to identify sectors with high potential for sustainable value chain development in Africa and the bottlenecks preventing businesses from fully realizing this potential. The study mapped 5 300 products as inputs or outputs and identified 415 continental value chains. In the context of the diagnostic study, instead of importing rubber from Thailand for the automotive industry, the business community will source from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cameroon and Cote d’Ivoire.

Clearly, skills development is crucial in the development of regional and continental value chains.

We will join our sister Department of Education Science Technology and Innovation in advocating for increased investments in such as education and training programmes related to our portfolio in order to increase investments in research and development, skills development, global market access as well positioning Africa to succeed in both the green transition and the fourth industrial revolution.

The author is African Union Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals

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