Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi has emphasized the need for Africa to move beyond development policies and agreements to actual implementation. Representing President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the Alamein Africa Business Forum in Egypt, Ndejembi stated that the continent already has many of the required policies and strategies to drive development. He stressed that faster implementation is now necessary to ensure Africa's resources benefit its people.
Ndejembi highlighted the challenges facing Africa, including economic uncertainty and regional conflicts, which have increased the need for countries to raise production, strengthen resilience to external shocks, and ensure resources contribute directly to development. He cited Tanzania's 2,115-megawatt Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project as an example of strategic investment aimed at expanding reliable electricity supply.
The Vice President emphasized the importance of investment in energy and infrastructure for Africa's growth. Tanzania's Development Vision 2050 prioritizes increased production, stronger use of natural gas and renewable energy, and improved infrastructure to support economic activity. Ndejembi also called for stronger government-private sector cooperation, increased cross-border investment, and deeper economic integration.
Ndejembi urged African countries to create an environment that directs private investment towards projects that increase production, create jobs, and add value to the continent's resources. Tanzania is working with other East African countries on strategic projects in railways, oil, energy, and ports to promote trade and regional integration.
The Alamein Africa Business Forum, opened by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, brought together African leaders, investors, financial institutions, and business executives. African Union chairman and Burundi President Évariste Ndayishimiye noted that Africa has abundant natural resources, but needs to convert these advantages into tangible economic outcomes.
Dangote Group chairman Aliko Dangote also spoke at the forum, saying global economic disruptions have exposed the need for Africa to strengthen domestic production. He called for faster industrialization and greater value addition within the continent instead of exporting raw materials and importing finished products.
The forum aims to strengthen trade, investment, and cooperation between African governments, institutions, and the private sector to advance economic integration and development. Ndejembi concluded that Africa already has policies, plans, and agreements, but needs implementation, stronger cooperation, political commitment, and decisions that put the interests of African people first.
Key points
- Africa must move from development policies to implementation to translate its vast resources into tangible benefits for its people.
- Investment in energy and infrastructure is critical to Africa's growth.
- Stronger government-private sector cooperation and increased cross-border investment are necessary for Africa's economic development.
