On the final day of the African Development Bank (AfDB) annual meetings in Nairobi, Kenya, on Friday, May 31, 2024, the Bank’s civil society engagement held a session on Engaging Civil Society in shaping Africa’s transformation and the Reform of the Global Financial Architecture. The session brought together various actors from Africa’s civil society organisations (CSOs), including youth and women.
Dr. Augustine Njamnshi, Chair, Technical and Political affairs at Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA), delivered remarks in which he shared priorities to be considered for Africa’s transformation and the Reform of the Global Financial Architecture.
He reminded participants that collaboration with civil society strengthens transparency and accountability, fostering a culture of openness in project implementation and financial management. Civil society, he said, brings local expertise and on-the-ground insights, enriching the Bank’s understanding of nuanced challenges and facilitating the design of contextually relevant solutions. Collaborating with civil society builds trust and credibility for the Bank, showcasing a commitment to democratic values and participatory development processes, he noted.
Dr. Njamnshi stressed that the role of Africa in transformation is undeniable and unstoppable.
He said: “From the bustling markets of Lagos to the innovative tech hubs of Nairobi, Africa is on a trajectory of growth and advancement that cannot be derailed. As we champion economic development, we must ensure that this transformation is inclusive and benefits all, leaving no one behind.”
He mentioned that the global finance architecture is not just a desire but an imperative.
“The current system must evolve to better serve our unique needs and aspirations. We must advocate for financial structures that are fair, equitable, and responsive to the challenges and opportunities we face. Together, we can influence these reforms and create a financial environment conducive to sustainable development,” he emphasised.
He called for the reinforcement of cooperation through the new Civil Society Action Plan 2024-2028 that CSOs participated in the development.
“This plan is not just a document; it is a roadmap for action. We must move from commitments to tangible implementation, ensuring that our strategies translate into real-world impact. By working hand in hand, the Bank and civil society can harness our collective strengths to achieve our shared goals,” he said.
