NATIONAL | Uganda is playing host to a landmark gathering this week as it welcomes the Eleventh Session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD-11), officially opening today in Kampala.
This is the first time the country is hosting the high-level continental event, organized by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) in collaboration with the African Union Commission and a host of other development partners.
The forum, held under the theme "Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063 for Inclusive and Green Recovery in Africa", has drawn participation from over 50 African countries, bringing together government ministers, policy makers, development experts, youth leaders, civil society actors, and private sector stakeholders.
Their mission: to assess Africa’s progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the AU’s Agenda 2063, and to forge practical strategies for accelerating their implementation.
The official opening ceremony is being held at Speke Resort Munyonyo, with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni expected to preside.
Also slated to speak are Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Matia Kasaija, and senior officials from the UN and African Union.
In his keynote address, Kasaija is expected to underscore Uganda’s commitment to sustainable development and regional cooperation.
Speaking ahead of the forum’s opening, UNECA Executive Secretary Claver Gatete stressed the urgency of this year’s session.
“ARFSD-11 comes at a critical time. Africa is facing multiple crises – from climate change and economic shocks to conflict and food insecurity," Gatete said.
"We must use this opportunity to strengthen partnerships and mobilize action for green, inclusive, and resilient recovery.”
Beyond the plenary sessions, Uganda has organized a variety of side events, exhibitions, and innovation showcases.
These include demonstrations of national progress in climate adaptation, gender equality, digital transformation, and youth empowerment—offering a platform for local voices and homegrown solutions.
The week-long forum will conclude with the adoption of the Kampala Declaration, a comprehensive roadmap that will serve as Africa’s official input to the 2025 High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development in New York.
With the continent watching closely, Uganda is not just hosting a major diplomatic and developmental event—it is stepping forward as a key influencer in shaping Africa’s sustainable future.