Africa’s dev’t hinges on economic integration, infrastructure connectivity: Minister Muferihat

On Jul 9, 2025 397

Addis Ababa, July 9, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s Minister of Labor and Skills, Muferihat Kamil, has underscored the critical importance of continental cooperation in advancing economic integration and infrastructure connectivity to drive sustainable development across Africa.

Speaking at the closing session of the 3rd Africa Job Creation Forum, Minister Muferihat emphasized that collective action is essential to unlock the continent’s potential and address the pressing challenges faced by its rapidly growing youth population.

The three-day forum, which concluded today in Addis Ababa, provided a dynamic platform for young people and entrepreneurs from across Africa to engage in dialogue, foster innovation, and explore collaborative pathways for inclusive growth.

In her remarks, Minister Muferihat highlighted Ethiopia’s efforts to strengthen youth economic participation, noting significant strides in promoting entrepreneurship and expanding employment opportunities. These include the diversification of alternative income sources, the adoption of modern technologies across key sectors, and the increasing engagement of young people in productive economic activities.

“The forum has served as a crucial space for knowledge exchange and networking,” the Minister stated. “It enabled participants to share experiences, forge partnerships, and develop joint strategies to address shared challenges.”

Participants reportedly expressed a shared commitment to sustaining collaboration and defining clear priorities for coordinated action going forward.

Reiterating her earlier message, Minister Muferihat stressed that Africa’s long-term development depends on integrated economic efforts and improved cross-border infrastructure connectivity.

She concluded by reaffirming Ethiopia’s dedication to working closely with African partners to promote job creation, foster innovation, and support entrepreneurship as cornerstones of the continent’s development agenda.