In a significant move towards fostering economic development across the continent, the Executive Director of the Eswatini Economic Policy Analysis and Research Centre (ESEPARC) participated as a distinguished panellist in the African Development Bank’s (AfDB) launch of the African Economic Outlook Country Focus Reports 2024. The event, held on Wednesday 31st July, 2024, brought together key stakeholders, policymakers, and economic experts to discuss the current economic landscape and prospects of African nations.
The African Economic Outlook (AEO) Country Focus Reports 2024 offer an in-depth analysis of economic trends, challenges, and opportunities across various African countries. These reports are crucial for guiding policy decisions and investment strategies aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth and development.
During his participation, the Executive Director shared valuable insights on the economic outlook of Eswatini, highlighting the country’s resilience in the face of multiple economic shocks, including the COVID-19 pandemic and rising international food and fuel prices. He emphasized the importance of ongoing reforms in public financial management (PFM) systems, noting the critical need for improved budget execution, expenditure control, and financial reporting to achieve fiscal sustainability.
The African Economic Outlook Country Focus Reports are a vital resource for understanding the unique economic dynamics of each nation. For Eswatini, the data underscores the importance of continued efforts in strengthening development initiatives and creating a conducive environment for economic growth.
Other panellists included prominent economists and representatives from various African governments, who shared their perspectives on the economic outlook of their respective countries. The dialogue underscored the need for collaborative efforts and knowledge sharing among African nations to overcome common economic challenges.
The AfDB’s launch of the African Economic Outlook Country Focus Reports 2024 marks a pivotal moment in Africa’s economic planning and policy formulation. By providing a comprehensive analysis of economic conditions and offering actionable recommendations, these reports aim to support African countries in achieving their development goals.
The Executive Director’s participation as a panellist in this high-profile event highlights the commitment of Eswatini’s leadership to engage with regional and international partners in driving economic growth and development, and the partnerships that ESEPARC hopes to build and to strengthen in the future. The insights shared during the panel discussion are expected to contribute significantly to the formulation of effective economic policies and strategies in Eswatini and beyond.
