Harnessing Agenda 2063 in socio-economic development in African countries. A Panel Discussion

Abstract

The article aims to examine the applicability of Agenda 2063 to socio-economic development in African countries, drawing both Afro-centric and Eurocentric perspectives. Given the pressing development challenges faced by many African countries, the applicability and feasibility of this ambitious framework has been the subject of extensive debate and analysis. This article seeks to unravel the applicability of Agenda 2063 in prioritizing development at mico , macro and messo level. The objectives are to examine the relevance of Agenda 2063 as a long-term strategic framework in achieving development and to examine the nexus between Agenda 2063 as a comprehensive plan of action and African countries neo-liberal economic policies. Besides this, The article seeks to analyse the efficacy of Agenda 2063 First Ten-year plan in African countries. Against the backdrop of financial constraints in African countries, the paper analysis a wide range of socio-economic goals attested by the Agenda 2063 aimed at transforming Africa into a prosperous, integrated and globally competitive region by the year 2063. The chapter aims to use systematic literature review research methodology as it enables pragmatic literature review. Findings from the study show that the Agenda 2063 applies to the development of African countries as it is aligned with the developing goals such as economic transformation and poverty reduction. The chapter contends that, the Agenda 2063 aims for sustainable development in education, health and economic growth. Conclusions from the study show that, many African countries face obstacles in implementing the agenda 2063 due to limited resources, governance issues, and lack of political will. The study concluded that the Agenda 2063 can be explained by social cooperation, indigenous control, poverty alleviation and egalitarianism. Findings on implementation challenges show that financing and governance are obstacles in the implementation of Agenda 2063. The study showed that, only 10 countries achieved 50% of the goals articulated in the Agenda 2063.The seven moonshoots from the Second Ten year plan of Agenda 2063 has been embedded in National Development Plans of African member states. Recommendations from the study advocates for sustainable policies that can be implemented to attain the Agenda 2063, African countries should adopt good governance so as to effectively apply the Agenda 2063.The study proposed the need for bilateral and multilateral development strategies that aims to address socio-economic challenges faced by African countries.