30 May 2023

Zedcrest Group, a leading financial services company at the forefront of innovation, celebrated its remarkable journey of transforming the African financial landscape with a deck of thrilling events culminating in a magnificent black-tie-themed Gala Night held on Sunday, May 21st, 2023.

The company’s anniversary week commenced on Saturday, May 13th, with an inter-team sports competition; afterwards came a series of activities such as a talent hunt, fashion show, and a dinner party where members of staff were rewarded for their outstanding performances and commitment to Zedcrest’s mission. Hosted in the heart of Lekki, Lagos, the Zedcrest gala night themed, ‘A Future Redefined’ served as the grand finale and pinnacle to the series of activities that were held to commemorate the group’s 10th- anniversary milestone. The evening attracted an array of distinguished guests — including Dr Ajoritsedere Awosika, ably represented by Nosa Igbinedion, who delivered the keynote address— and esteemed clients, partners, and stakeholders.

The gala night was a platform to not only celebrate Zedcrest Group’s commitment to excellence, and integrity but to also celebrate the trailblazers who joined the company, almost a decade ago, for their unwavering dedication and invaluable contribution to the company success. This special recognition highlighted the value Zedcrest Group places on its employees.

The highlight of the evening was the unveil of Zedcrest Wealth, a wealth management product that encapsulates Zedcrest Group’s vision to demystify the wealth creation journey over the next decade. “Through our research, we have crafted a personality for how money can work for us. Money is a person. Money has a voice. Money has been speaking for thousands of years. And when money speaks, money tells you to choose Zedcrest,” declared Adedayo Amzat; the Chief host and Group Chief Executive Officer, as  he ushered in the new subsidiary of the business.

During the unveiling of the new wealth management app, Amzat further remarked, “Zedcrest Group has been committed to delivering cutting-edge financial services and driving positive change through customer-centric innovations and strategic partnerships unlocking value across the value chain of asset management and consumer-lending — spaces we have proven to be authorities in.”

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was unavoidably absent at the event, conveyed his goodwill message, underscoring the significance of Zedcrest Group’s achievements and the impact it has made in the financial sector.

The event featured a red carpet hosted by the delectable Folu Storms and a captivating performance by the renowned Afrobeats and reggae-dancehall sensation, Patoranking — adding colour and fizz to the celebratory atmosphere.

As Zedcrest Group embarks on the next phase of its transformative journey, the company remains committed to pushing boundaries and setting new standards in the financial services industry. With its visionary leadership, innovative products, and steadfast focus on client satisfaction, Zedcrest Group is well-positioned to continue driving financial excellence across Africa.

Zedcrest Gala Photo Caption: L-R, Babatunde Sanda, Chairman, Zedcrest Group; Mr Adedayo Amzat, Founder and CEO, Zedcrest Group; Stella Duru, Non-Executive Director, Zedcrest Group; Adebola Williams, Non-Executive Director, Zedcrest Group; and Oluseyi Akinbi, Managing Director, Zedcap Partners; at the Zedcrest 10th Anniversary Gala Night in Lagos.

‘Start with a clean slate, make public your assets, investments’, SERAP tells Tinubu

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the President-Elect Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu to “start with a clean slate by promptly making public details of your assets, income, investments, liabilities, and interests and to encourage your Vice-President-Elect to do the same.”

SERAP also urged him to “immediately prioritise the full and effective respect for human rights, media freedom, the rule of law and the country’s judiciary including by promptly obeying countless court judgments which the government of President Muhammadu Buhari has repeatedly treated with utter contempt and disdain.”

In the open letter dated 27 May 2023 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization said: “SERAP notes your recent promise to “kill corruption’. However, this rhetoric is nothing new: the outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari used similar hollow anticorruption phrase in 2015.”

SERAP said, “As Nigerians have witnessed for eight years, Buhari has neither ‘killed corruption’ nor obeyed court judgments on transparency and accountability.”

According to SERAP, “Widely publishing details of your assets, income, investments and liabilities and encouraging your Vice-President-Elect and others to do the same would allow Nigerians to know your worth and the worth of other public officials.”

SERAP said, “If your election is upheld by the judiciary, your government can use transparency in asset declarations as a means of promoting public accountability and ending systemic corruption in the country.”

The letter, read in part, “Buhari’s broken promises to make specific details of his assets public and to ‘kill corruption’ have opened up the country’s political and electoral processes to a money free-for-all, discouraged political participation and contributed to impunity for corruption.”

“Although President Buhari’s march to Aso Rock was predicated, in large part, on his campaign rhetoric to ‘kill corruption’, corruption remains widespread among high-ranking public officials and in ministries, departments and agencies [MDAs].”

“Making public details of your assets, liabilities, and interests would reduce unjust enrichment of public officials, ensure integrity in public offices and promote transparency and accountability as well as good governance.”

“Nigeria is very rich but its wealth is gravitating rapidly into the hands of a small portion of the population, and the power of corrupt enrichment has continued to threaten to undermine the political integrity of the country.”

“The tendency for politicians when trying to persuade Nigerians to vote for them is to conceal or hide traits that might make voters reluctant to vote them into power and to hide what they want to do with that power. But once voted into power, politicians become trustees of public wealth and resources and must remove the camouflage.”

“Effective enforcement and implementation of court judgments is critical to the national interest and to the restoration of the rule of law in the country.”

“The incoming government therefore has a responsibility to improve citizens’ trust and confidence in government. But it will be difficult for the new government to be trusted if its leaders do not come clean about their assets and incomes.”

“Disclosure of income, assets and conflicts of interest can serve as powerful tools to draw attention to the abuse of public office, help prosecute corrupt offenders and create a culture of scrutiny in the public sector that deters corruption.”

“The Buhari administration has neither ‘killed corruption’ nor obeyed the rule of law. The outgoing president seemed barely able to hide his disdain for the rule of law and judicial integrity and independence.”

“Under the Buhari administration, the country has witnessed a general concentration of wealth in the hands of a few politicians and elites perceived to be enriching themselves at the expense of the general public.”

“The Buhari administration turned the idea of the rule of law and judicial independence on its head by persistently disobeying court judgments including those ordering him to stop life pensions for former governors, and to pay journalist Agba Jalingo N30 million as damages for violations of his human rights.”

“The Buhari administration has also refused to obey the judgments by Justice Hadiza Rabiu Shagari ordering his government to tell Nigerians about the stolen asset it allegedly recovered, with details of the amounts recovered; and by Justice Mohammed Idris, ordering his government to publish details on the spending of stolen funds recovered by successive governments since 1999.”

“SERAP urges you to emulate the late former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua who consistently published his asset declaration forms as president and governor of Katsina State. He also planned legislative reform to make it mandatory for all public officers to declare their assets publicly. He believed that publishing his assets would put pressure on other public officers to do so.”

“According to the Code of Conduct for Public Officers, contained in Part I of the Fifth Schedule to the 1999 Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended], all public officers are to declare their assets.”

“Paragraph 11(1)(a)(b) of the Fifth Schedule provides that every public officer shall immediately after taking office and thereafter (a) at the end of every four years; and (b) at the end of his/her term of office, submit to the Code of Conduct Bureau a written declaration of all his properties, assets, and liabilities and those of his unmarried children under the age of eighteen years.”

“Section 15(1) of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) and Tribunal Act also requires all public officers to declare their assets.”

“Article 8 of United Nations Convention against Corruption provides for the codes of conduct for public officials and requires states parties including Nigeria to ensure probity in public office. Article 8(5) particularly requires states parties to establish systems that require public officials to declare their outside activities, employment, investments, assets and substantial gifts or benefits.”

“Article 7(1) of the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption also provides a similar requirement for public officials to declare their assets before, during, and after serving in public office.”

“The Nigerian Constitution and the anticorruption and human rights treaties show the significant role that asset declaration by public officials plays in promoting transparency, accountability and preventing and combating corruption in the public service.”

“Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution makes provision for the fundamental right to information. Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights also guarantee access to information.”

“We hope that the aspects highlighted will help guide your steps in taking steps to publish your asset declaration form and to encourage others to do so.”

Kolawole Oluwadare

SERAP Deputy Director

28/5/2023

Lagos, Nigeria

Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org

Twitter: @SERAPNigeria

Website: www.serap-nigeria.org

For more information or to request an interview, please contact: +2348160537202

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU UNVEILS OFFICIAL PORTRAIT FOR SECOND TERM

Ahead of May 29th inauguration for the second term in office, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has unveiled his new official portrait.

In a statement released on Sunday and signed by his media adviser, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, the new portrait, which is expected to be hung in all government and non-government offices across the State from Monday 29th of May, shows Governor Sanwo-Olu in a traditional white Agbada, with a carton brown handmade cap with blue stripes that has become his brand identity.

The new portrait is a departure from the previous one where the Governor wears a blue suit, white shirt and blue tie.

The portrait was photographed by ace photographer Ademola Olaniran, who brought his depth of professionalism and creativity into the finished work.

The portrait can also be found on all the official social media handles of Mr. Governor, Lagos State Government and websites.

Gboyega Akosile 

Media Adviser to the Governor 

28th May, 2023

Wike Decorates Yari With Highest Rivers State Honour

Former Zamfara State Governor and  Senator-  Elect , Representing Zamfara West Senatorial District , who doubles as  Senate President hopeful of the 10th Senate,  His Excellency,  Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar was on Saturday decorated with the highest honour of Rivers State, Grand Service Star of Rivers State (GSSRS) by Governor Nyesom Wike.

This was in recognition of his contribution and commitment to national unity and development since he burrowed into the political circle.

Conferring the honour on Yari, at the pre-inauguration dinner of the state, Governor Wike said the former governor of  Zamfara State and former Chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum deserved the highest honour in Rivers State because he has contributed immensely to national unity and development.

He referred to the spectacular capital projects he carried out while he was in office as the governor of Zamfara State as model projects with underpinning legacies which speak of quality reflecting Yari’s leadership as a leader with eyes on the future.

In his acceptance address, former Governor Yari appreciated Governor Wike and the people of the state for deeming it fit to decorate him with the highest honour of the state.

He stated that the people of Rivers State were lucky to have elected and supported Governor Wike for eight years in office, saying their decision paid off in terms of socio-economic development in the state.

Yari said: “I want to appreciate Governor Nyesom Wike and the people of Rivers State for counting me worthy of the honour of the land.

“Before I leave here, I must say the people of Rivers State are lucky to have elected you (Wike) their governor eight years ago.

“When I looked around, I could see massive development in the state like road network. I have watched on television live how some roads were inaugurated for the benefit of people living in areas that were not connected with road before.

“Thank you for recognizing my contributions to the unity and development of our nation so far,” Abdulaziz Yari enthused.

It will be recalled that the former Zamfara State Governor, Abdul’aziz Yari is one of the leading contenders for the Presidency of the 10th Senate , a position his antecedents reflect he has the leadership quality to clinch with ease.

Former governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi and Governor, Kaduna State, Nasir El Rufai were among several others honoured by Governor Wike.

The event, which took place at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Port Harcourt, had in attendance Ondo South Senator-elect, Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim, CFR, and several dignitaries on the entourage of the former Zamfara State Governor.

On Monday, Governor Wike will hand over the baton of leadership of the state to the Governor-elect Siminalayi Fubara, who was the former accountant-general of the state.

PRESS RELEASE 

‘PEOPLE’S EXPECTATIONS MET, IT’S TIME TO CONSOLIDATE’ – SANWO-OLU SAYS AS HE KICKS OFF SECOND TERM

• Governor enlists gender equality, social inclusion, youth in Dev’t agenda; takes oath with deputy 

• Expect more dividends of good governance, Lagosians assured

There is more progress to come as Lagos State steadily journeys into the unfolding dispensation, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reassured Lagosians as he took the oath to kick off his second term, on Monday.

The morning downpour could not water down the Governor’s will and determination to renew his pledge to Lagos citizens before whom he stood at the amphitheatre of Tafawa Balewa Square, where the Chief Judge of the State, Justice Kazeem Alogba, administered the oath on him.

Sanwo-Olu was sworn in at exactly 11:50am, after which the Governor stepped forward to give thorough account of stewardship of his first term. Enumerating transformations recorded by the State since 2019 under his leadership, the Governor noted that Lagos had lived up to its billing as the Center of Excellence. The State, he said, became the first sub-national to deliver an intracity rail network from its balance sheet to aid mass mobility in the mega city.

This, the Governor said, has further advanced the State’s development course, just as the completion of Lekki Deep Seaport has enhanced socio-economic growth and turned the State to a new logistics hub of West Africa. He said the delivery of largest rice mill in Imota by his administration was a game changer that would make Lagos a key player in food production chain on the continent.

Sanwo-Olu said Lagos had remained on the track of sustenance and prosperity, pointing out that his Government’s financial engineering led to the upgrade of the State to AAA(nga) status in financial sustainability and resilience by Fitch International – a feat unprecedented in the State’s annals.

The Governor, sharing his catalogue of achievements, also listed other notable progress made by Lagos, especially in expanding infrastructure to enhance intermodal transport system, healthcare services, education, aesthetic environment, social interventions and other areas across his administration’s development agenda.

“In my first term, we set the stage for transformative change. We confronted significant challenges, from improving our infrastructure to ensuring adequate social services, from grappling with economic downturns to navigating a global pandemic. Yet, we never faltered. Our challenges became stepping-stones and our trials, the foundation of our resilience,” Sanwo-Olu said.

Despite fulfilling some of his pledges, the Governor said there would be much more to be accomplished in the coming days as his final term begins. He said the swearing-in offered him an opportunity to acknowledge expectations of the electorate, and to rededicate his administration towards meeting and surpassing the people’s expectations.

Sanwo-Olu said his vision was beyond provision of physical infrastructure and working to attain good economic indicators for the State; he said he would govern to make Lagos a beacon of cultural vibrancy, intellectual prowess, and humanistic values.

The Governor, in his inauguration address, expanded the scope of his administration’s governing T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda. He announced three additional areas of focus which the State Government would intensify intervention in the next four years, including Social Inclusion, Gender Equality and Youth.

He said: “That tradition of progressive governance, of enlightened leadership, has consistently yielded fruit for us, and set Lagos up as a model State. We have lived up to our designation as Centre of Excellence, and a day like this is an opportunity to celebrate. Our people still expect a lot more from us in several areas; today is another opportunity to acknowledge our citizens’ expectations and to rededicate ourselves to meeting and surpassing those expectations. I pledge, as your Governor, to unleash greater energy in the service of Lagos. I will work tirelessly for the well-being of every Lagosian and will strive for a Lagos that we can all be proud of.

“It is in line with our resolve, I am pleased to announce that we are taking our governing agenda to the next level in this our second term. Henceforth, it will be known as ‘T.H.E.M.E.S Plus’, representing the incorporation of an intensified focus on Social Inclusion, Gender Equality and Youth. We are strengthening and reinforcing our governance agenda in order not to leave anyone behind on account of their social status, gender or young age; we will design all our policies and programmes to ensure that everyone is carried along and catered to. This is our solemn promise to you.”

Sanwo-Olu said his second term would be more rewarding for the residents, as the State would witness consolidation of his reforms and governance at higher levels. In the coming weeks, the Governor will be delivering another intracity rail network, Red Line Rail, which is at the completion stage. Lagos will also be witnessing development of a new airport in Ibeju-Lekki, Deep Seaport in Badagry and Fourth Mainland Bridge in addition to other capital projects in the pipeline.

The task ahead, the Governor said, would be a collective responsibility of the Government and people, noting that he would always seek partnership with the citizens in line with his administration’s mantra. He assured that his administration would continue to foster a culture of transparency, accountability and participatory governance.

“The greatness and strength of Lagos lie in the collective spirit of our people; whether those paying taxes, or those treating public property with care and respect, or those speaking about something when they see something going wrong or someone breaking the law. For us as government, I would be the first to acknowledge our own side of this social contract. I will not let you down,” the Governor said.

Sanwo-Olu eulogised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for laying the foundation for the development of Lagos, which, he said, made it easy for the succeeding administrations to strengthen transformational governance and keep the State on the path of progress.

The Governor also thanked the immediate past President Muhammadu Buhari for dedicating kindness and support for Lagos, which enabled his administration to record many successes in the last four years.

Sanwo-Olu said he was ready to continue to offer transformational leadership to the State in collaboration with his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, whom he described as “loyal friend, partner-in-progress”. He promised Lagos would remain a city united by its diversity, while pledging to work till his last days in creating better future for the citizens.

He said: “At this moment of our history, it has fallen upon me to steer the ship and to move us closer than ever to the Greater Lagos of our dreams. Like I promised four years ago, the glitz of office will not change my personality and I will not try to become something I am not. I have strived to serve excellently, with humility, compassion, with a listening ear, bending where necessary to demonstrate that people’s welfare is at the centre of our actions.

“I am sending reminder to Lagosians that this land belongs to all of us, and all of us who call it home must partake in its goodness. Regardless of what language we speak, or where we trace our ancestry to, or where in Lagos we live, or what religion we profess; regardless of age or gender or political party, and regardless of how long we have called this land home; we are all united by something deep and immutable, which is our aspirations to make tomorrow better than today for us and our children.”

Thousands of residents across the State, clad in colourful attires, defied the rains to witness the historic event held at Onikan. The inauguration was well-attended by members of the corporate sector and diplomatic community.

Gboyega Akosile 

Media Adviser to the Governor 

29th May, 2023

PRESS RELEASE 

SANWO-OLU MOURNS MEDIA MOGUL, RAYMOND DOKPESI 

• Sympathises with deceased family, media industry 

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the passage of accomplished businessman and pioneer in the private media industry, High Chief Raymond Dokpesi, describing the death as a colossal loss to Nigeria.

Governor Sanwo-Olu in a condolence statement issued on Monday by his Media Adviser, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, sympathised with the entire management and staff of African Independent Television (AIT) and Raypower FM as well as friends and associates of the deceased.

The Governor said the late Dokpesi would be remembered for breaking the monopoly of government-owned broadcasting in Nigeria with the establishment of the first private radio station, Ray Power FM.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, I mourn the passage of businessman and media guru, who contributed his quota to the economy of Lagos State by providing job opportunities for many young Lagos residents in the media sector.

“High Chief Raymond Dokpesi was a forerunner in private broadcasting in Nigeria. He established the first privately owned television and radio in Nigeria. His bold decision to break the government monopoly in the broadcasting sector gave birth to hundreds of privately owned television and radio stations in Nigeria.

“He was also an active participant in Nigeria politics during the present Fourth Republic and served his party and Nigeria in different capacities. He was a philanthropist who dedicated his life to the service of his community, state, and country.

“I pray for the repose of the soul of the late Dr. Dokpesi and pray that God grants the media industry and the deceased family, friends and associates the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

Gboyega Akosile 

Media Adviser to the Governor 

29th May, 2023

Collective action can “move mountains” for Africa

Sharm El-Sheikh, 26 May 2023 (ECA) – Deputy Executive Secretary and Chief Economist of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), Hanan Morsy, has called for continued collective action in support of the Africa High-level Working Group on Global Financial Architecture (HLWG).

“Our key objective is to build African consensus on what needs to be done and amplify the continent’s voice on the global stage,” said Ms. Morsy, adding, “The work of this group (HLWG) shows that when we come together, we can move mountains.”

Ms. Morsy co-chairs the HLWG with African Union Commissioner Albert Muchanga and Ghana’s Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta.

In her remarks during a meeting with heads of regional and continental institutions, held on 25 May on the margins of the African Development Bank (AfDB) annual meetings in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, Ms. Morsy lamented the high cost of debt incurred by African governments.

“Debt service composes 22% of revenue” in Africa, limiting countries’ ability to make essential investments in health, education, and infrastructure to help operationalize the AfCFTA.”

Ms. Morsy underscored the urgent need to fix the global debt architecture so that countries in debt distress can obtain swift and effective debt restructuring.

The ECA Chief Economist highlighted some of the near-term reform proposals put forth by the HLWG, including the need to: suspend debt service for all countries entering the Common Framework restructurings to provide relief and incentivize speedy restructurings; expand eligibility to middle-income countries; establish Expanded Creditor Committees to incorporate private sector creditors, smooth coordination challenges, and accelerate restructurings; establish a ‘Comparability of Treatment’ formula to reduce technical disputes and accelerate restructurings further; and bolder use of IMF Lending into Arrears policies to reduce leverage of holdout creditors.

Credit enhancement tools and guarantee facilities would also help unlock more resources for investment, she noted. Such mechanisms can be combined with debt-for-climate investment swaps, which allow reducing countries’ debt servicing costs and create fiscal space.

Ms. Morsy urged stakeholders to rally behind a proposal by the AfDB and the Inter-American Development Bank for the rechanneling of Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) through Multilateral Development Banks.

“This will increase the leverage of SDR resources and provide much-needed liquidity,” Ms Morsy noted.

The meeting was chaired by AfDB President Akinwumi Ayodeji Adesina, who commended the work of the ECA and the HLWG, adding that “On the issue of debt resolution, I think AfDB and ECA will continue to work very hard” to ensure that Africa has a “common voice.”

The meeting was attended by over 18 heads of African regional and continental institutions.

The High-level Working Group is coordinated by the ECA. It comprises African Ministers of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, the African Union, the African Development Bank, Afreximbank, and the World Bank, and includes the participation of IMF staff and Executive Directors. The Group serves as a forum to develop reform proposals for the global financial architecture and strengthen the African voice on the global stage.

Heineken and Formula 1 immerses Lagos Consumers in an unforgettable Monaco Grand Prix experience 

Heineken, the world’s premium lager beer, demonstrated its unwavering support for Formula 1 as it hosted an exhilarating Monaco Grand Prix watch party on Sunday, May 28, in Lagos.

F1 enthusiasts and Heineken consumers came together to witness the heart-pounding action of the iconic race while enjoying the thrilling atmosphere created by the Dutch beer giant. This was done in partnership with DStv, the official broadcast sponsor of F1 races in Nigeria.

From the heart-stopping action on the track to the vibrant atmosphere in the stands, Heineken left no stone unturned in ensuring that consumers were immersed in the exhilaration of the Monaco Grand Prix as they were treated to an unparalleled experience. Activities at the watch party included raffle activations and music performances.

As the official global partner of Formula 1, Heineken has consistently strived to enhance the race experience for fans, and the Monaco Grand Prix viewing experience was no exception. Through their innovative approach and unwavering commitment to excellence, the premium beer brand has successfully amplified the allure and thrilling excitement of the prestigious event, leaving consumers in Lagos captivated and thirsting for more.

“Bringing the Monaco experience to Lagos was an absolute thrill for us as we were able to create opportunities for fans to immerse themselves in the excitement and thrill of Formula 1 whilst celebrating the spirit of passion, and performance. “ Sampson Oloche, Portfolio Manager, Premium Brands, NB Plc, said at the event.

“This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to pushing boundaries and creating remarkable experiences that leave a lasting impact.” he added.

With Max Verstappen taking the lead in this season’s race, closely followed by Fernando Alonso, Esteban Ocon, Lewis Hamilton, and George Russell, the Monaco Grand Prix further solidified its place in motorsport history. The partnership between Heineken and Formula 1 has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the world of motorsport, and by seamlessly blending their passion for innovation, a dedication to excellence, and a shared desire to thrill fans, this collaboration continues to set new standards for global sporting events.

As the season continues, F1 fans can be sure to enjoy the races on DStv, courtesy Heineken, the official broadcast sponsor of F1 races in Nigeria.

Call for accelerated action to support structural transformation of Landlocked Developing Countries

Landlocked Developing Countries, currently experiencing economic and infrastructural challenges, need increased technical and financial support to achieve sustainable development, leaders have called during the High-level Africa regional review meeting of the Vienna Programme of Action (VPoA) for Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) which opened in the Botswana Capital, Gaborone.

In a video message at the opening of the meeting, Acting Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), Antonio Pedro, said while African LLDCs have made some notable development progress, this has not been substantial enough to reach the goals and targets set out in the VPoA.

Nonetheless, the limited progress made does not mean achievements should go unnoticed. For example, LLDs have improved access to electricity from 24 to 37 per cent between 2014 and 2020, and an economic growth forecasted at 5.3 per cent for 2023. Furthermore, work was underway to further unlock progress, including the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“Successful implementation of the AfCFTA would allow for enhanced regional cooperation and economic integration on the continent and would directly address some of the challenges that LLDCs faced over the years – particularly regarding the reduction of transit costs,” he said, noting that peculiar challenges arising from their lack of access to the sea, as well as inadequate transport infrastructure were some of the challenges faced by LLDCs.

“We will have to continue our critical work addressing the unique challenges facing LLDCs, and we must do so together,” Mr. Pedro told participants, adding that the challenges of a majority of African LLDCs were compounded by a recurrent incidence of conflicts, political instability and un-receding high levels of poverty and inequality.

Africa is home to 16 of the world’s 32 landlocked developing countries, 13 of which are also Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

The two-day meeting being held under the theme, “From Vienna to Kigali: towards a new decade of partnerships for a transformative Programme of Action for LLDCs’ ‘ will review the implementation of the Vienna Programme of Action in Africa. Organized by the United Nations Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS) jointly with the ECA and the Government of Botswana, the meeting is being attended by Ministers and senior government officials from ministries dealing directly with the implementation of the VPoA.

The regional level meeting precedes the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) slated for 2024 which will comprehensively review the implementation of the Vienna Programme of Action for LLDCs.

Addressing the review meeting, High Representative and Under-Secretary- General Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States, Rabab Fatima, said the United Nations General Assembly has adopted an ambitious ‘Call for action to accelerate the implementation of the Vienna Programme of Action’ to help LLDCs effectively implement the VPOA and achieve sustainable development.

“Clearly, the targets and aspirations of the VPOA, the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063 are far off-track, Ms. Fatima noted, adding that, “We must double-pace our efforts to turn things around. The 3rd LLDCs Conference provides us with an opportunity to do that.”

Ms. Fatima said Africa must leverage the once-in-a-decade opportunity of the 3rd LLDC conference to mobilize global support and solidarity to strengthen partnerships to transform the lives and livelihoods of 533 million people in 32 landlocked countries.

For his part, Botswana Assistant Minister of Agriculture, Molebatsi Molebatsi, said LLDCs should not be left behind in sustainable development but need financing for better connectivity to implement the Vienna Programme of Action and to meet the Sustainable Development Goals.

Calling for the successor Programme of Action of the VPoA to be an accelerator in achieving the SDGs, Mr. Molebatsi, bemoaned that Africa’s LLDCs are locked out of global trade.

“There is a need to work together to ensure the overcoming of the common challenges we have. The use of the latest technologies will go a long way in helping us achieve this objective,” said Mr. Molebatsi.