African Union

09/04/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/02/2024 18:06

Africa Industrialization Week (AIW)

On November 20th, 2024, Africa will commemorate the 35th anniversary of Africa Industrialization Day (AID). Established in 1989, this day serves as a critical platform to acknowledge the continent's progress in industrial development while addressing the ongoing challenges it faces.

The journey of African industrialization began with a clear vision. In 1989, the Organization of African Unity (OAU), the forerunner to the African Union (AU), declared Africa Industrialization Day during its 25th Ordinary Session. This declaration, later echoed by the United Nations General Assembly, highlighted the importance of industrial development for Africa's economic growth and prosperity.

Since then, Africa has made significant strides in its industrial landscape. Sectors like manufacturing, agro-processing, and information and communication technology (ICT) have witnessed notable growth. This progress is fueled by a young and dynamic workforce, coupled with growing investments in infrastructure and technological advancements.

Since 2018, Africa Industrialization Day (AID) has been celebrated with a week of events, dubbed "Africa Industrialization Week" (AIW). This shift allows for deeper discussions and activities around industrialization's critical role in Africa's development.

Africa Industrialization Day (AID) 2018 - Promoting Regional Value Chains in Africa: A pathway for accelerating Africa's structural transformation, industrialization and pharmaceutical production".

Africa Industrialization Day (AID) 2019 - "Positioning African Industry to supply the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCTA) Market"

Africa Industrialization Day (AID) 2020 - "Inclusive and sustainable Industrialization in the AfCFTA era"

Africa Industrialization Day (AID) 2022 - Industrializing Africa: Renewed commitment towards an Inclusive and Sustainable Industrialization and Economic Diversification.

Africa Industrialization Day (AID) 2023 - Accelerating Africa's Industrialization through the Empowerment of African Women in Processing for an Integrated Market.