African Leaders Forge Bold Alliance for Continent’s Transformation at Summit
19 African Heads of State convened at a landmark summit to unveil a visionary agenda aimed at propelling the continent towards a future of prosperity and opportunity. This ambitious roadmap, endorsed by the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), heralds a new era of collaboration and commitment to Africa’s development.
The summit, hosted by the Government of Kenya in partnership with the World Bank Group, witnessed the emergence of a powerful coalition comprising civil society, foundations, the private sector, and youth advocates.
This coalition pledges unwavering support for a robust replenishment of IDA’s resources, recognizing it as a pivotal catalyst for driving Africa’s socio-economic transformation.
In a joint communique issued following the summit, African leaders outlined their steadfast resolve to implement sweeping economic reforms aimed at enhancing governance, stimulating private sector growth, mobilizing domestic resources, and addressing the challenges of climate change.
Key priorities include expanding energy and digital infrastructure, bolstering resilience to climate variability and conflict, and fostering sustainable development across the continent.
Dr. William Ruto, President of Kenya, delivered a passionate call to action, emphasizing the urgent need for transformative change and rallying international support for IDA’s replenishment.
He underscored IDA’s indispensable role in catalyzing inclusive growth and urged donor nations to bolster their contributions to IDA21.
“Our people and we, the leaders of Africa, are impatient for change and we want to transform the continent at this moment of tremendous opportunities,” President Ruto declared. “IDA has been and must remain a dependable development partner for Africa, and we urge stronger donor contributions to IDA21 so that together we can drive transformational impact not only for a better Africa, but also for a better world.”
World Bank Group President Ajay Banga echoed President Ruto’s sentiments, emphasizing the imperative of sustained global solidarity in supporting Africa’s developmental aspirations.
“We are united by a shared vision for the future of Africa—a continent rich in diversity, culture, and potential, thanks to its young people and natural resources,” Banga affirmed. “The International Development Association has been a steadfast partner in Africa’s development journey, and this summit symbolizes our collective commitment to accelerating progress. This will require more from IDA, more from the World Bank Group, more from governments, and more from the private sector.”
For decades, IDA has played a pivotal role in driving economic growth and poverty reduction across Africa, providing grants and concessional loans to support strategic investments in human capital development and job creation.
As Africa confronts an array of challenges, from pandemics to climate change, IDA’s replenishment assumes heightened significance in catalyzing sustainable development and unlocking the continent’s vast potential.
The summit also witnessed impassioned appeals from representatives of the newly formed coalition, including Ndidi Nwuneli of the ONE Campaign, Sellah Bogonko of Jacob’s Ladder, James Mwangi of Equity Group Holdings, Nir Bar Dea of Bridgewater Associates, and Hugh Evans of Global Citizen.
These voices underscored the imperative of robust IDA21 replenishment and reiterated their commitment to collaborative action in realizing Africa’s aspirations.
As Africa stands at a historic crossroads, the resounding message from the summit is one of unity,resolve, and collective determination to forge a brighter future for the continent and its people. With IDA as a cornerstone of this transformative agenda, Africa is poised to embark on a path of sustainable growth, prosperity, and inclusive development.
