African Leadership Forum Calls for Renewed Focus on Sustainable Development Goals

Addis Ababa, April 8, 2025 (ENA) — Leaders at the 8th African Leadership Forum in Kampala called for a renewed focus on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), urging African nations to prioritize “Africa-first” strategies in achieving these global objectives.

Opening the 8th African Leadership Forum yesterday, President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda said Africa cannot achieve sustainable development unless it undergoes a deliberate process of transformation, both economically and ideologically.

The forum, which is co-convened by the former President of Tanzania and ALF Patron Jakaya Kikwete, and former Prime Minister of Ethiopia Hailemariam Dessalegn, aims at mobilizing  action on pressing developmental challenges.

Speaking on the occasion, the former Prime Minister of Ethiopia and current Board Chair of Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), Hailemariam Dessalegn, stressed the importance of strong governance and institutions to realize SDGs.

“We have to strengthen governance and institutions. We need transparent, accountable, and inclusive governance structure that promotes the rule of law and combat corruption and illicit financial flows,” he said

The board chair said Africa must adopt climate-smart agriculture, enhance food storage facilities, empower small-holder farmers; and accelerate energy transition as Africa has immense potential for renewable energy, according to Hailemariam & Roman Foundation.

The 8th African Leadership Forum is set to conclude today.