Uganda is set to host the 11th session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD) from April 9 to 11, 2025, at Speke Resort Munyonyo.
The high-profile event, organised by the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) in collaboration with the African Development Bank, the United Nations system, and the Ugandan government, will bring together over 1,500 participants, including Heads of State, former leaders, policymakers, and experts.
Themed "Driving Job Creation and Economic Growth through Sustainable, Inclusive, Science- and Evidence-Based Solutions for the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063," the Forum will serve as a platform to assess Africa’s progress toward achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, commonly referred to as “The Africa We Want.”
The Forum aims to conduct a regional review of progress on these development goals, facilitate peer learning, and accelerate implementation through science-driven and evidence-based solutions.
It is expected that the convening with facilitate a consensus on Africa’s sustainable development priorities, with a focus on job creation and economic growth while strengthening the capacity of countries conducting voluntary national reviews in 2025.
The event will equio key stakeholders, including policymakers, civil society, academia, and the private sector, with knowledge and tools to advance SDG and Agenda 2063 goals and equally enhance commitments to increasing economic growth and mobilising partnerships for financial, technological, and capacity-building support.
The Forum will also feature pre-events from April 6 to 8, alongside side events and exhibitions that will run concurrently with the main segment. The official opening ceremony will be presided over by the President of Uganda.
Speaking during a press briefing, the Prime Minister,Robinah Nabanja emphasised the importance of the Forum in shaping Africa’s sustainable development trajectory.
"This Forum will provide a unique opportunity for African nations to assess progress, share best practices, and develop concrete actions to accelerate economic growth and job creation. We call upon all stakeholders to support Uganda’s preparations for this significant event," the Prime Minister stated.
The government of Uganda, in partnership with ECA, development partners, civil society organisations, and the private sector, is working towards ensuring a successful and impactful Forum.
With Uganda hosting this critical Forum, the country will play a pivotal role in shaping Africa’s economic and sustainable development strategies. The outcomes from ARFSD 2025 are expected to influence Africa’s contribution to the upcoming Summit of the Future and the Second World Summit on Social Development.
As the countdown begins, all eyes will be on Uganda as leaders, policymakers, and development experts gather in Kampala to drive Africa’s sustainable and inclusive growth agenda forward.