Africa Industrialization Day Commemorated in Addis Ababa

UNIDO Ethiopia together with the Ministry of Industry, Ministry of Agriculture, beneficiary abattoirs, leather sector associations and other partners commemorated Africa Industrial Day on 21 November 2023 in Addis Ababa.

The theme for this year “Accelerating Africa’s industrialization through the empowerment of African women in processing for an integrated market” focuses on the critical role of women-led enterprises in driving Africa’s industrialization through processing and value addition, as well as the integration of African markets under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Speaking at the commemoration, UNDIO Representative and Director of the Regional Hub in A.A, Ms. Aurelia Calabrò, said the Programme for Country Partnership (PCP) for Ethiopia, among others, focuses on three light manufacturing sectors: agro-food processing, textiles and apparel, and leather and leather products.

Ms. Calabrò said these sectors were chosen due to their prospects for job creation, strong linkages to the agricultural sector, high export potential and capacities to attract private sector investment.

They will act as a springboard for the transformation of Ethiopia's economy from agriculture based to one driven primarily by light industries, Ms. Calabrò noted.

“With the technical assistance of UNIDO, we are progressing well to establish a leather industrial district to create a competitive industry, mitigate pollution and facilitate Foreign Direct Investment,” she added.

The Representative and Director of the Regional Hub reiterated that continued strong commitment of the UNIDO’s to support Africa’s, particularly Ethiopia's industry development and the building of inclusive, resilient and prosperous societies for all.

UNIDO also handed over slaughterhouse machines and tools to abattoirs in Ethiopia that worth 430,000 Euros. The support will enable the production of quality hides and skins - the key inputs along the leather value chain for quality leather and leather products.

Africa Industrialization Day is celebrated every year on the 20th of November bringing together member states and trade partners to discuss initiatives and opportunities that can advance industrialization efforts across the continent.

It is an occasion that helps draw worldwide attention to the challenges of industrialization in Africa and highlights possible ways to help bolster further economic development.