The African Manufacturing Foundation (AMF) convened its inaugural board meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, on September 16. The meeting marked a significant milestone for the organization, which was formed in May. The AMF is endorsed by prominent corporate players and personalities, and its board comprises former heads of state, ministers, academics, and top business executives. The organization's mission is to unite, promote, develop, and market indigenous products from a pan-African perspective.
The AMF board consists of renowned individuals, including former President of Mauritius Dr. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, who chairs the board, and former AU Chair and South African ex-Minister Dr. Nkosazana Zuma. Macford Sibandze, a former Member of Parliament of Manzini North, is also part of the board and has been appointed Head of Governance and will lead Communications and Marketing. The board's formation aims to enhance African manufacturing capacity, as the continent currently relies heavily on Western powers for product manufacturing and processing.
The inaugural meeting was initially scheduled for August, with Africa's leading industrialist Aliko Dangote as the guest speaker. However, the meeting was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Vision bearer and CEO of the board, Lebo Radebe, assured the board that they are still in contact with Dangote and are working to arrange a meeting. Radebe also mentioned that he has a list of potential candidates and companies that will be approached for strategic partnerships.
The AMF marks an important milestone for the indigenous people of Africa, as it will become a focal point for Africa's product development. The organization plans to establish a presence in African bodies such as SADC, PAP, and AU. For Eswatini, Sibandze has begun researching how the country can benefit from the AMF. He plans to meet with stakeholders in the manufacturing industry and the relevant ministry to explore collaboration opportunities, including the "Buy Swati" initiative.
The AMF is open to members from various sectors, including individuals, companies, associations, and corporations. Sibandze emphasized that joining the AMF has tremendous benefits for members. He encouraged interested parties to contact him for more information. The organization's goal is to promote and develop indigenous products, and it believes that collaboration and strategic partnerships will be key to achieving this objective.
The AMF's strategic direction was set during the inaugural board meeting, and the organization is expected to play a significant role in Africa's product development. With its diverse board composition and prominent endorsements, the AMF is well-positioned to make a positive impact on the continent's manufacturing sector. The organization's plans to establish a presence in key African bodies will also help to promote its mission and objectives.
As the AMF continues to move forward, it is expected to attract more members and partners who share its vision of promoting African manufacturing. The organization's focus on indigenous products and collaboration will be crucial in achieving its goals. With the support of its board members and partners, the AMF is poised to make a significant contribution to Africa's economic development and growth.
Key points
- The African Manufacturing Foundation aims to enhance African manufacturing capacity and promote indigenous products from a pan-African perspective.
- The organization's board comprises renowned individuals, including former heads of state, ministers, academics, and top business executives.
- The AMF is open to members from various sectors, including individuals, companies, associations, and corporations.
