What role should industrial policy play in Africa’s transformation agenda? From national security to climate action and job creation, industrial policy is being hailed as a tool for tackling today’s most pressing challenges. But much of the evidence comes from Asia and the policy discussions predominantly focus on large economies—like the U.S., China, and Europe.
Addressing Africa's industrial policy challenges requires acknowledging the continent's evolving economic landscape. Traditional industrial models may no longer fit Africa’s unique socio-economic realities. Instead, growth is increasingly driven by dynamic service sectors such as ICT, tourism, and food processing. This shift raises critical questions regarding the role of industrial policy in Africa’s economic transformation. How can it address the complexities of informal labor markets? Can it be a catalyst for poverty alleviation, job creation, and food security?
To explore these questions, the Institute for Economic Development, the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC), the Structural Transformation and Economic Growth (STEG) Program, and the International Growth Center (IGC) are hosting a research conference in Nairobi, Kenya.
This conference will bring together leading researchers from the region to share fresh insights and diverse perspectives on industrial policy—both from within Africa and beyond.
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