Date: April 22, 2024
Time: 9:00 am (D.C. Time), 2:00 pm (Cameroon Time)
Duration: 90 minutes
Platform: Zoom Webinar (Register)

Context:

Sub-Saharan Africa faces a myriad of challenges including governance, rule of law, security and ballooning unemployment. While there has been some progress, economic growth has been characteristically slow and not inclusive. Despite the region’s vast potential and abundant natural resources, many countries continue to face significant challenges in fostering broad-based and sustainable economic development. High levels of inequality, limited access to opportunities, and persistent barriers to participation in the formal economy have hindered efforts to ensure that growth benefits all segments of society. Addressing these issues requires innovative approaches and collaborative efforts from policymakers, researchers, and civil society actors.

Objective:

In this 90-minute webinar we will explore strategies to tackle inequality and informality towards fostering inclusive growth in the region. Panelists will share their insights, experiences, and recommendations on addressing inequality and informality to promote inclusive growth and the creation of good paying jobs. The discussion will cover topics such as policy interventions, economic reforms, social protection measures, and inclusive development strategies.

Structure:

1. Welcome and Overview (5 minutes): Introduction of the webinar topic and
2. Moderated Panel Discussion (40 minutes): Moderated discussion on key themes related to addressing inequality and informality towards inclusive growth. Panelists share insights, experiences, and strategies.
3. Perspectives from sector leaders (8 minutes): Brief remarks from three individuals representing different sectors or perspectives (e.g., government, academia, civil society). Each individual shares their views on the topic and highlights key priorities or actions.
4. Interactive Audience Discussion with Panelists (25 minutes): Open floor for audience members to share their thoughts, ask questions, and engage with panelists and speakers. Facilitated by the moderator to ensure diverse participation and meaningful discussion.
5. Wrap Up (8 minutes): Summary of key insights and takeaways from the webinar. Closing remarks by the moderator

Panelists:

Dr Rose Ngugi, Executive Director, KIPPRA – Kenya
Kah Walla, Chief Executive Officer, STRATEGIES!, Cameroon
Gerda Van Niekerk, Ph.D., Associate Professor, University of Limpopo, South Africa
Junien Nze Biyoghe Economist, Independent Research and Capacity Building Center for Development, Togo

Moderator:

Dr Denis Foretia, Executive Chairman – Nkafu Policy Institute, Cameroon

Comment #1:

Professor Emmanuel Ongo, Director, CEREG, University of Yaoundé 2, Cameroon.

 Comment #2:

Eugenia Kayitesi, Executive Director, Institute of Policy Analysis and Research IPAR-Rwanda

Expected Outcomes:

• Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the root causes of inequality and informality in Sub-Saharan Africa, with heightened awareness of the challenges faced by marginalized
• Attendees will acquire insights into innovative strategies and best practices aimed at promoting inclusive growth and reducing inequality in the region, empowering them with actionable knowledge to drive change.
• The webinar will encourage collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, academics, practitioners, and civil society organizations, fostering partnerships for collective action towards addressing inequality and informality.
• Attendees become inspired and motivated to take concrete steps towards promoting inclusive growth in their respective spheres of influence.

Throughout the webinar, there will be ample opportunities for audience engagement and participation. Attendees will be encouraged to ask questions, share their perspectives, and contribute to the discussion through live polls, Q&A sessions, and interactive chat features. The interactive nature of the event will ensure deep contributions from the audience and facilitate knowledge exchange among participants.

About the Nkafu Policy Institute:

The Nkafu Policy Institute is an African think tank dedicated to offering independent and insightful policy recommendations aimed at fostering prosperity for all Africans within free, fair, democratic, and sustainable economies. The Institute brings together analysts, experts, and researchers from across the globe, focusing on various fields including governance and democracy, health and education, peace and security, science and technology, as well as economic policy.

Contact Details:

Jean Cedric Kouam, Ph.D.,                                            Bruno Ittia Achuo.,
Director of Economic Affairs,                                           Deputy Director of Communications
Nkafu Policy Institute                                                       Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation
[email protected]                                        [email protected]