01.12.2024
The 8th Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) Week convened in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, spotlighting bold strategies for resilient and inclusive growth. Hosted by Ethiopia’s government with the African Union Commission (AUC) and partners, the event addressed pressing infrastructure needs while advocating transformative financing. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.
Claver Gatete, United Nations Under-Secretary-General, emphasized infrastructure’s critical role in advancing Africa’s industrialisation and trade. Speaking to attendees, he praised Ethiopia’s rapid infrastructure transformation as an inspiring model for the continent’s development trajectory.
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Africa’s infrastructure gap hampers its global competitiveness, driving up costs and stifling productivity. Gatete noted how inadequate infrastructure lowers economic growth by 2% annually while cutting firm productivity by 40%, underscoring the urgency of action.
PIDA’s strategic framework highlights 69 priority projects requiring $160.8 billion for full implementation. Gatete stressed the need for national ownership and coordination to mobilise funding while fostering stakeholder collaboration across sectors.
Advancing Transport Networks Through Infrastructure Development in Africa
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents a game-changing opportunity to expedite PIDA’s objectives. Upgrading transport infrastructure is crucial to manage anticipated traffic surges while enhancing connectivity.
Key findings from an ECA report reveal significant transport needs, including upgrading 61,540km of regional roads. Completing these projects could reduce critical road links by 33%, increasing efficiency and cutting transit times.
Under AfCFTA’s full implementation by 2030, rail transport’s share could grow from 0.3% to 7%. Additionally, road transport would require over two million trucks, complemented by expanded rail, air, and maritime fleets.
Investment opportunities in transport infrastructure and construction are critical to supporting regional trade and boosting economic capacity. Coordinated efforts among stakeholders will drive successful outcomes and sustained growth.
Sustainability and Innovation in Infrastructure Development in Africa
Sustainability featured prominently during discussions, addressing environmental concerns and climate resilience. Gatete cited Kenya’s recent floods, which disrupted the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Corridor, highlighting the need for sustainable practices.
Strengthened regional coordination and green strategies are essential to overcoming climate challenges while fostering long-term infrastructure resilience. Sustainability remains a cornerstone of Africa’s development strategy.
The ECA supports PIDA’s progress by advancing digital management tools for infrastructure assets. These innovations enhance efficiency and build resilience in regional transport corridors.
Africa’s infrastructure ambitions align with global initiatives like China’s Belt and Road Initiative and the European Union’s Global Gateway. Gatete cautioned against overreliance, urging African priorities to drive external partnerships.
By maintaining unified continental positions, Africa ensures its needs guide collaboration with global stakeholders. Aligning development priorities safeguards Africa’s strategic interests in partnerships.
Gatete reaffirmed ECA’s commitment to addressing infrastructure deficits and mobilising support for PIDA’s goals. He emphasised that PIDA Week provides an essential platform to share insights, assess progress, and energise Africa’s infrastructure agenda.
Source, photo: www.railwaysafrica.com