UN’s Mohammed links sustainable development to decent jobs

Ife Ogunfuwa

The Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mrs. Amina Mohammed, has said that development of infrastructure and industrialisation in African countries is crucial to the creation of decent jobs.

Speaking at the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, she said the future of youths on the continent depended on efforts to achieve industrialisation, diversification and investment in infrastructure, among others.

According to her, the agenda of the summit addresses challenges and opportunities that are integral to the future of the 226 million youths in Africa.

She said, “This year’s thematic focus on youth is a powerful reminder of the core principle at the heart of these agendas: creating a better world for the next generation. The challenge of eradicating poverty and achieving inclusive and sustainable growth has spurred Africa’s steady pursuit of transformative sustainable development.

“These efforts have been marked by historic steps towards regional integration, industrialisation and diversification, infrastructure development, private sector development, and strengthened agricultural productivity. All of these are vital for creating decent jobs and a better future for our young people.”

She noted that the challenge of strengthening Africa’s human capital had galvanised commitments to promote their rights and invest in quality and relevant education at all levels, health, science, technology and innovation.

Mohammed commended the governments of Uganda, Tanzania, Democratic Republic of Congo and Ethiopia and other countries for accepting refugees into their countries, creating hope and opportunities for them.

In particular, she said the bold efforts of Uganda, which had integrated men, women and children into the communities, and all this despite the levels of poverty, was exemplary and an example that should be emulated all over the world.

She said, “Today, you are here taking decisions that will ensure that Africa benefits from the full potential of all its people, including young women and men; generate greater efforts to ensure that all young African women and girls have equal access, opportunities and leadership roles in all areas of political, economic and public life.

“Investing in our youths today reaps the dividend of a peaceful and prosperous Africa tomorrow.”

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UN’s Mohammed links sustainable development to decent jobs

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