Photo: Magda du Toit
She urged delegates to use this opportunity to create meaningful contacts and share ideas so that Africa can be mobilised to take action.
“This summit is where knowledge meets collaboration, and where innovative ideas are transformed into meaningful impact.”
She pointed out that signs of climate change in Africa is a reality. “We can see and are experiencing the effects of climate change on the continent. It is not a warning any more, it is a reality.”
She also said that political and trade fragmentation are contributing to shaping the landscape.
According to her, there are a couple of aspects that needs focus and tangible plans in order to change the current situation and to unlock the potential available on the continent. These are:
- Water: There are many water sources in Africa, yet there are severe droughts and famine. “We have to look at sustainable ways to better utilise available water, but also have to ensure that more people have clean drinking water.”
- Education: “We have to prepare the next generation so that they can become the leaders we need.”
- Technology and data: “We have to harness the potential locked up in AI and digital technologies and not see these as threats but as opportunities.”
- Trade: “We have to look at trade within the continent and leverage on trade for development opportunities.”
“Our actions will determine if we achieve success or fail, if we are inclusive or exclude people, and if we are sustainable or destructive,” she stated.
She closed by emphasising that people in Africa should refrain from only accepting handouts.
“We must look for real answers to address the core problems instead of just alleviating the results of the problems. We must be bold and not settle for the easy answers,” she said.
