Africa Industrialization Day
November 20, Thursday
It was proclaimed by the Organization of African Unity in 1989 at its 25th session in Addis Ababa.
Later that year, the UN General Assembly officially approved this date in Resolution 44/237.
Why this day is celebrated
* To remind the global community of the importance of Africa’s industrialization and the challenges it faces.
* To mobilize governments, international organizations, and investors to accelerate the continent’s industrial development.
* To emphasize the importance of inclusive growth, job creation, and economic diversification.
* To link Africa’s industrialization with global sustainable development goals.
* To promote the idea of expanding the celebration format, such as holding a full week of events (Africa Industrialization Week).
Themes and directions
Each year a new theme is selected to reflect current development priorities.
For example:
* the 2023 theme focused on the role of women in manufacturing and market integration;
* the 2025 theme focuses on sustainable industrialization, regional integration, and innovation.
Who organizes and participates
The organization of events involves:
* the African Union Commission
* the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)
* the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA)
National governments, the private sector, research organizations, and civil society also actively participate.
Importance and challenges
Industrialization is a key factor in socio-economic transformation:
* it increases productivity, creates jobs, and strengthens human capital;
* it develops internal economic links and reduces dependence on external shocks;
* it faces challenges ranging from lack of infrastructure and technology to the need for green growth;
* it requires addressing social inequality, including increasing women's participation in industry.
Message from the UN Secretary-General
The annual messages emphasize that industrialization is a path toward a sustainable and inclusive future.
Special attention is given to green technologies, women’s and youth entrepreneurship, and reforms of the global financial system to support Africa.
Historical perspective
* the Second Industrial Development Decade for Africa (1991–2000) became an important stage in shaping industrialization strategies;
* over time, the event format expanded to include exhibitions, discussion panels, business forums, and B2B and B2G meetings.
Africa Industrialization Day in other years
- 2021 November 20, Saturday
- 2022 November 20, Sunday
- 2023 November 20, Monday
- 2024 November 20, Wednesday
- 2026 November 20, Friday
Africa Industrialization Day in other countries
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