About the session

To further deepen the work on the role of SMEs in industrialization, the 25th ICSOE of Southern Africa will be building on the observations and proposals of 24th ICE, this session will proffer recommendations on national and regional level strategies and attendant policies to elevate and strengthen the contribution of MSMEs to industrialization and socio-economic transformation in the region. The 25th Session will focus on how the enterprises can be propped up, integrated and supported to anchor industrialization and address development aspirations in Southern Africa.

Objective

The specific objectives of the session are:

(i)         To review the social and economic conditions in Southern Africa

(ii)        To consider and endorse the implementation of the programme of work of the ECA Southern Africa Sub-Regional Office, the planned programme of work and the budget for 2019/20; and

(iii)       To review the Implementation of regional and international agendas, including NEPAD and other special initiatives in the sub region focusing on the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

(iv)       In reviewing the work programme, the delegates will proffer recommendations towards ensuring that the development priorities of the sub region are fully accommodated in the work of ECA to align technical support provision to member States and RECs to these priorities.

•           In addition to executing its Statutory Mandate, the 25th ICSOE will also discuss the role of SMEs in industrialization through a review of the study on “Strategies and Policies for the Integration of Micro, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Industrialization Process in Southern Africa” as well as the recommendations of the Ad Hoc Experts Group Meeting on “Harmonization of Industrialization Policies and Strategies in Southern Africa.”

It will bring together a wide range of high-level stakeholders including Senior Government Officials working on industrialization, regional integration, trade and SME’s from SADC member States and the representatives of SADC, COMESA and EAC Secretariats. Representatives from the African Union Commission, the African Development Bank, Civil Society Organizations, the Development Bank of Southern Africa, academic and research institutions, civil society and professional organizations, the UN family including UN Resident Coordinators in the region, and sister ECA Divisions and regional offices will be invited to participate in the meeting.

For participation and more information on the 24^th ICE of Southern Africa, reach us on the contacts below. 

Contact:

Ms Dailes Matoka
United Nations Economic Commission for Africa
Southern Africa Office
Tel:  +260 211 228502/5
DL:  +260 211 376625
Fax: +260 211 236949
Contact by email

Media Contacts:

Ms. Lavender Degre,
Communication Officer,
Tel: +260 211 228502/5 Ext. 21307
DL: +260 211 376607
Contact by email