Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), has called on African leaders to assert their influence in global economic governance, particularly with South Africa at the helm of the G20.
Gatete emphasized the need for Africa to shape international policies that align with the continent’s long-term development goals.
Speaking at high-level meetings with Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Finance, Gatete highlighted pressing challenges and opportunities, including debt sustainability, climate change, energy access, and industrialization.
He warned that nearly 20 African nations face severe debt distress and urged for a fair resolution framework that supports long-term economic growth.
Gatete also stressed the importance of climate finance, emphasizing that Africa contributes only 4% of global emissions but suffers disproportionately from extreme weather, food insecurity, and environmental degradation.
He called on global partners to fulfill their commitment of $100 billion annually in climate finance to support African nations.
Furthermore, Gatete emphasized the need for Africa to utilize its abundant renewable resources to create sustainable jobs, industrialize, and boost economic resilience.
He also highlighted the importance of regional value chains that promote local beneficiation, industrialization, and technology transfer to maximize Africa’s economic potential.
Gatete concluded by stressing that Africa must act decisively on debt, climate finance, energy, and industrialization to secure its rightful place in global economic decision-making.
“Now is the time for Africa to act boldly, assert its influence, and secure its rightful place on the world stage,” he said, urging coordinated action.
