LDC Future Forum Concludes with a Call for Strengthened Resilience
The 3rd Least Developed Countries (LDCs) Future Forum concluded today in Lusaka, with United Nations (UN) Under-Secretary-General Ms. Rabab Fatima emphasizing that the discussions have laid a strong foundation for enhancing resilience among LDCs.
The three-day high-level event, which began on April 1, was hosted by Zambia in partnership with the United Nations Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries, and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS) and the Government of Finland.
It brought together policymakers, researchers, business leaders, development partners, and UN agencies from over 50 countries to explore practical strategies for strengthening LDCs against economic, environmental, and social shocks.
In her closing remarks, Ms. Fatima expressed gratitude to President Hakainde Hichilema for officially opening the Forum and setting the stage for meaningful discussions on resilience-building.
She echoed President Hichilema’s sentiments that resilience is no longer optional for LDCs and urged countries to leverage technology and harness untapped natural resources to foster sustainable development.
Ms. Prudence Kaoma, Permanent Secretary for Planning and Administration at the Ministry of Finance and National Planning, commended the Forum for shaping the future of LDCs through innovative strategies that prioritize resilience beyond crisis response.
She stressed that proactive anticipation, prevention, and adaptation are essential for sustainable recovery.
The Forum, attended by over 250 participants, focused on policy recommendations, research insights, and practical solutions to strengthen resilience and accelerate development in LDCs.
Ms. Kaoma urged LDCs to unite and amplify their voices on the global stage, ensuring that their unique challenges and opportunities remain a priority in international development agendas.
Held under the theme, “Enhancing Resilience: Innovative Solutions for Strengthening LDCs Resilience Against Systemic Shocks,” the LDC Future Forum concluded with a unified call for sustained collaboration, innovation, and policy reforms to safeguard LDCs from global uncertainties.
