The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, Lynette B. Bagonza, has urged African governments, private sector actors, and development partners to take decisive steps toward sustainable industrialization.

Addressing more than 500 delegates from across the continent during Africa Industrialization Week, Bagonza emphasized that this year’s theme should serve as a call to action rather than a ceremonial slogan.

She stressed that African nations must undertake a deliberate and energetic push to transform their economies through stronger infrastructure, improved access to finance, enhanced innovation, and a supportive environment for private enterprise.

According to Bagonza, policy reforms, public–private partnerships, technology transfer, and increased investment are not optional but essential if Africa is to achieve meaningful and inclusive industrialization.

She noted that the week’s events provide a dynamic platform for substantial progress provided stakeholders remain fully engaged.

She highlighted two key forums taking place during the week.

The African Women in Processing Forum will showcase the achievements of women entrepreneurs and connect them with investors, buyers, and financial institutions.

Meanwhile, the African Youth Startups Forum aims to accelerate youth-led industrialization through deal-making, investor-readiness training, and matchmaking in sectors such as healthcare, green technology, and digital innovation.

Africa Industrialization Week, celebrated annually, brings together policymakers, investors, innovators, and development institutions with the shared goal of transitioning the continent from a raw-material exporter to a hub for value-added industries.

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