Kikwete: How Africa can attain SDGs

Dar es Salaam. Former President of Tanzania and Africa Leadership Forum Patron, Jakaya Kikwete, acknowledged that while Africa has made commendable progress in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it is important to confront the challenges that continue to hinder the continent’s full potential.

The challenges, he noted, include poverty, disease, inequality, illiteracy, and climate change, all of which continue to cast a long shadow over Africa’s future.

Mr Kikwete made the remarks during the 8th African Leadership Forum held in Uganda, which focused on the theme “Realising Sustainable Development Goals in Africa: Progress and the Way Forward.”

The forum sought to assess the current state of SDG implementation across African nations, identify the obstacles hindering progress, foster regional cooperation, and devise innovative solutions.

Despite the ambitious nature of the SDGs, Kikwete affirmed that Africa has made significant strides. 

He stressed that the continent is on the move, and its accomplishments are the result of hard-won efforts.

“As we celebrate Africa’s remarkable progress, we must confront the formidable challenges that still stand in our way. With the clock ticking towards 2030, the need for decisive action has never been more urgent,” he said, adding that it is now the time for bold reforms, innovative resource mobilisation, steadfast political commitment, and a new era of accountability.

 “Let us rise to the occasion and ensure Africa’s future is indisputable,” he said.

Mr Kikwete emphasized that only through collective determination can Africa turn its aspirations into tangible actions. 

He noted the significant growth of African economies, improvements in health, education, poverty reduction, and better environmental management.

He also highlighted the rise in youth empowerment, innovation, and a stronger African voice.

“Today, Africa is not the same as it was during the struggle for independence. The achievements we have made are a testament to the resilience and determination of the African people—the leaders, farmers, workers, entrepreneurs, and young changemakers who are tirelessly working to bring the SDGs to life in their communities,” he said.

Former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Hailemariam Dessalegn, echoed the sentiments, stating that the 17 SDGs represent Africa’s collective ambition for a continent free of poverty and inequality.

He acknowledged that Africa is a continent of immense potential but still faces significant challenges, including a youthful population, abundant natural resources, climate change, governance issues, and poverty.

“While progress has been made in poverty reduction, with many regions lifting people out of extreme poverty, some areas have experienced setbacks. Education enrollment rates have increased, and in healthcare, there has been progress in combating maternal mortality, malaria, and HIV—though this has largely been supported by donor funding,” he explained.

He also pointed to increasing investments in infrastructure, particularly energy, but stressed that the journey towards development remains long, with climate change continuing to pose the continent’s most pressing challenge.

“Governance remains a major issue. Illicit financial flows, conflict, and corruption divert vital resources away from SDG investments. There is a significant financing gap in achieving the SDGs, and Africa must look to alternative funding sources. Strengthening institutions, promoting transparency, and ensuring the rule of law are critical steps to accelerate progress,” he added.

Former FAO Representative to Ethiopia, Mafa Chipeta, also addressed the issue, warning that Africa cannot solely depend on external decisions to drive its development.

“The SDGs are important, but progress will be hindered if Africa spreads itself too thinly. We must focus on what will ensure Africa’s sustainability, primarily by growing the economy,” Chipeta said.

He stressed the importance of prioritizing economic growth to secure long-term development.