Mnangagwa Calls for Inclusive Growth and Jobs at ARFSD-11
President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa has reaffirmed Southern Africa’s commitment to inclusive development and job creation during the 11th Session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD-11), held in Kampala, Uganda.
Speaking in his capacity as Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), President Mnangagwa said regional integration remains key to achieving sustainable and equitable development. He noted that SADC Vision 2050 places inclusive growth and poverty eradication at the centre of its long-term goals.
“Job creation is being prioritised across our National Development Plans and sectoral policies,” he said. “We are implementing sound fiscal and monetary policies to not only stabilise our economies but also create employment opportunities.”
Mnangagwa highlighted the potential of natural resource-based sectors, particularly agriculture and mining, to drive youth employment through sustainable value chains. He also called for the adoption of new technologies, including artificial intelligence, to enhance productivity and boost intra-African trade.
On climate issues, the President appealed for increased climate financing, technology transfer, and investment in renewable energy, especially for rural communities.
“Africa’s transformation will not occur by chance,” he said. “We must take charge of our development and our destiny. Inclusive development, human capacity building, and poverty eradication must remain at the core of our shared goals.”
The ARFSD-11 forum sets the stage for Africa’s consolidated input ahead of the 2025 High-Level Political Forum and the Second World Summit for Social Development, paving the way for deeper regional collaboration and action towards a prosperous and peaceful future for Africa.
