MWE Correspondent
African nations are marking the annual Africa Industrialization Week with a high-level summit in Kampala, Uganda, where policymakers, industry leaders and development experts have gathered to discuss the continent’s industrial future.
The event, which runs from 17 to 21 November, culminates on 20 November — a day officially recognized across the continent as the peak of activities dedicated to advancing Africa’s industrial growth.
This year’s gathering is being held under the theme “Transforming Africa’s Economy through Sustainable Industrialization, Regional Integration and Innovation.” Delegates say the theme reflects the urgent need to build a modern and resilient industrial base at a time when African economies face global competition, shifting trade patterns, and the need to embrace environmentally responsible development models.
The week-long summit brings together representatives from governments, regional blocs, private-sector institutions, civil society organizations and research bodies. Discussions have centered on emerging manufacturing opportunities, the expansion of regional value chains, and the adoption of green technologies capable of reducing the continent’s heavy reliance on raw material exports. Many speakers emphasized that sustainable industrialization remains central to the aspirations outlined in the African Union ([African Union]) development agenda.
Experts at the Kampala forum noted that African countries have made progress in strengthening industrial policies, yet significant challenges remain. Limited access to financing, weak infrastructure, high energy costs and inconsistent regulatory environments continue to slow down the pace of industrial investment.
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Several delegates also stressed that deeper regional cooperation — particularly through mechanisms such as the African Continental Free Trade Area ([AfCFTA]) — is essential if industries across the continent are to scale up competitiveness and expand markets.
Uganda’s hosting of the 2025 event has also attracted entrepreneurs and innovators showcasing technologies designed to support agriculture, transportation, textiles and digital manufacturing. Exhibitors highlighted how Africa’s youthful population and growing digital skills present opportunities for the continent to leap into global value chains, provided that governments create an enabling environment.
The commemoration of Africa Industrialization Week traces back to 20 November, a date designated to recognize the role of industry in driving long-term and inclusive economic transformation. The day underscores the commitment of African states to strengthen manufacturing, promote job creation and reduce dependence on commodity-based economies — objectives aligned with the broader vision of sustainable industrial development ([Sustainable industrial development]) advocated by global institutions.
Regional analysts say the Kampala summit comes at a crucial moment. As global markets evolve, countries in Africa are being urged to shift from exporting raw materials to producing value-added goods that can compete internationally. Participants at the conference expressed optimism that collaborative industrial strategies, technological innovation and stronger integration can accelerate this transition.
They emphasized that if the continent is to achieve meaningful and sustainable economic transformation, industrial development must remain at the forefront of national and regional priorities.
