Addis Ababa, June 19, 2026: The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UN- ECA) is working assiduously to drive transformative change across the continent, with a renewed focus on accelerating implementation and delivering results.
The 2nd Quarter Annual Programme Performance Review Meeting (APPRM) of the EAC, held in Addis Ababa from 17-19 June, showcased ECA’s commitment to advancing key priorities, including the AfCFTA, regional value chains, technology and digital transformation, macro-economic policy, finance and planning.
To drive progress, ECA is taking bold steps to accelerate its work program, aiming to achieve 75% of its annual deliverables by the 3rd Quarter APPRM. The organisation is strengthening partnerships with the African Union and Regional Economic Communities (RECs) to fast-track implementation of Agenda 2063 and Agenda 2030.
Key initiatives include, among others, the development of three regional value chains for intensified focus, convening the Committee on Climate Change, Blue Economy, Agriculture, and Natural Resources Management, and launching a pioneering training course on Economic Diplomacy for young diplomats. ECA is also amplifying its impact by boosting visibility and outreach on its flagship publications.
Said Adejumobi, Director of the Strategic Planning, Oversight, and Results Division (SPORD), which is responsible for organising the APPRM, added, “ECA is committed to scaling up its engagement with member states, RECs, and partners to drive Africa’s economic transformation. “We are excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to working together to build a prosperous and sustainable future for Africa.”
He emphasised the urgency of collective action. “We are at a critical juncture, and we must work together to deliver on our promises,” he said. “With 71.4% of corporate milestones achieved, we are on track, but we need to pick up the pace on annual deliverables”
Executive Secretary Claver Gatete reaffirmed ECA’s commitment to advancing Africa’s development, despite external and internal challenges. “ECA has the capacity to deliver,” he said, stressing the need to address staff welfare, enhance teamwork, and meet strategic priorities.
Ms Hanan Morsy, Deputy Executive Secretary, responsible for programme support, highlighted opportunities for growth, urging teams to plan jointly, define ownership, and strengthen accountability. "We need more intentional planning, clearer ownership, and better accountability," she emphasised.
Ms Mama Keita, Deputy Executive Secretary overseeing operations, thanked the team and stakeholders, emphasising that collaboration is vital for impact. “We’ve delivered in a resource-constrained environment, thanks to our expertise and professionals,”.
As ECA accelerates its efforts to transform Africa's economic landscape, the commission remains committed to driving collective action, strengthening partnerships, and delivering impactful results, with a focus on innovation, accountability, and collaboration.