Mansur Ahmed, the Chairperson of the Pan-African Manufacturers Association (PAMA), delivered a compelling argument regarding the imperative transformation of African manufacturing for the ambitious goals set forth in Agenda 2063. Emphasizing the sector’s commanding position in global trade, accounting for over 70% of it, and its role in generating more than 30% of service jobs, Ahmed spoke eloquently at the re-launch of PAMA during the intra-African trade fair in Cairo, Egypt, entrepreneurng.com
Agenda 2063, often dubbed “The Africa We Want,” spans a five-decade timeline from 2013 to 2063 and serves as the blueprint for the African Union’s economic development. Ahmed underscored the significant strides made since the commencement of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in 2021, aligning with the overarching objectives of Agenda 2063.
Despite these commendable efforts, Ahmed acknowledged the challenges on the road to achieving “The Africa We Want.” Intra-African trade currently hovers below 18%, and Africa’s global trade contribution stands at a modest 4%. Many African economies grapple with issues like underdevelopment, low productivity, and minimal value addition, perpetuating widespread poverty. To alter this narrative, Ahmed asserted that comprehensive transformation is requisite across all sectors, with manufacturing emerging as a critical catalyst for economic growth.
According to Ahmed, both the public and private sectors must embark on sustained efforts to effectively implement AfCFTA and realize the objectives of Agenda 2063. He stressed the pivotal role PAMA must play in promoting the growth of the African manufacturing sector. This involves uniting private entrepreneurs to instill confidence and ensure that a significant portion of goods traded within Africa are produced on the continent. Additionally, Ahmed advocated for increased investments in research and knowledge-sharing, crucial elements for enhancing the capabilities of African manufacturers.
In his comprehensive vision, Ahmed urged PAMA to actively engage in fostering collaborations and partnerships, both within the sector and beyond. This, he contended, is essential for sector integration, expansion, and diversification. Moreover, he delineated a multifaceted approach, including advocating for policy improvements at regional and continental levels, staying abreast of global manufacturing trends, and facilitating new investments and partnerships to ensure the sector’s expansion, modernization, and heightened competitiveness.
The Chairperson also highlighted specific strategies for PAMA, such as engaging with the African Business Council to safeguard manufacturers’ interests, collaborating with development partners, and actively involving academic and research communities to support research, training, and the development of a skilled workforce capable of propelling the sector’s growth and innovation.
Furthermore, Ahmed proposed organizing and facilitating regional seminars, conferences, and other events that promote the growth and development of the African manufacturing sector. As a final initiative, he recommended the establishment of technology transfer and innovation hubs across the continent, serving as centers for research, development, and the promotion of advanced manufacturing technologies. In essence, Ahmed’s comprehensive vision articulated a strategic roadmap for PAMA to play a central and proactive role in steering the African manufacturing sector towards a prosperous and transformative future, (
PAMA)
