The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) have consistently argued that achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in Africa requires a deepstructural transformation of their economies. 

Eastern Africa is one of the fastest growing regions in the world, but it is also one of the poorest. The emphasis on structural transformation arises from concerns that the recent growth pattern in the regionis neither sufficiently inclusive, nor sustainable. Structural transformation has also become part of the political lexicon, and is increasingly captured in national and regional vision statements – e.g. the Sustainable Development Goals, the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the EAC’s Industrial Development Agenda. However, more purposeful policies are required to implement these agendas. 

The Geneva Policy Dialogue, “Achieving Accelerated Structural Transformation in Eastern Africa: Policy Ideas from Two United Nations Bodies” will provide an opportunity for ambassadors, senior United Nations officials and other experts to explore the policy options for meeting the challenges of structural transformation in Eastern Africa. The main purpose of the event is to provide a platform to raise awareness and discuss how to maximize the economic and developmental impacts of accelerated structural transformation. 

The policy dialogue will further seek to foster integrated policies and strategies, deepen cooperation and partnerships, and enhance support for African efforts to ensure an economically sustainable structural transformation in Eastern Africa and across the continent. 

Click here to read the programme of ECA/UNCTAD Geneva Forum Dialogue