The Future of Economic Research for Policy

Through a series of ignite talks, this AGORA 2026 session brought the next generation of African development economists, AGORA NextGen Scholars, to the forefront. Presenters showcased their frontier research, ideas and solutions on skills, energy, and agribusiness directly to policymakers and practitioners, bridging the gap between innovative research and on-the-ground decision-making.

The session was moderated by Patrizio Pagano, Head of the Secretariat to the Governing Board Directorate at the Bank of Italy. Luisa Minghetti, Director of Research at Istituto Superior di Sanità, provided opening remarks.

Presenters:

• Nouréini Sayouti Souleymane, Research Scientist, Innovations for Poverty Action
• Hardi Ahmed, PostDoc, NOVA School of Business and Economics
• Yselle Flora Malah-Kuete, Development Economist, University of Yaounde II
• Muthoni Nganga, Professor, University of Victoria
• Eseosa Joy Sowemimo, Lecturer, University of Benin
• Regean Mugume, Research Analyst, Economic Policy Research Centre, Makerere University

In follow-up conversations with Lukwesa Burak, BCC Presenter and Moderator, these young economists reflected on what needs to change, from improving access to data and preparing young people for an AI-driven economy to creating better jobs.

Interviewees:

• Nouréini Sayouti Souleymane, Research Scientist, Innovations for Poverty Action
• Regean Mugume, Research Analyst, Economic Policy Research Centre, Makerere University
• Hardi Ahmed, PostDoc, NOVA School of Business and Economics
• Yselle Flora Malah-Kuete, Development Economist, University of Yaounde II