Short Abstract:

Africa’s economies are reliant on natural resources, making them vulnerable to climate change. Structural transformation and economic diversification strategies that are environmentally and socially sustainable are required to address these challenges.

Long Abstract:

This panel session welcomes abstracts that seek to unpack these various challenges and to identify the potential solutions that structural transformation can advance. This panel will be organised over three sessions. Comparative case studies with other countries beyond Africa, are welcomed.

Session 1: Energy Transition and Structural Transformation in Africa

This session will explore how African countries can leverage the global energy transition to drive structural transformation. With abundant renewable energy resources and critical minerals, Africa holds significant potential to reshape its economies. The discussion will focus on practical strategies to harness these opportunities, fostering sustainable growth, industrialisation, and resilience in the face of evolving global energy demands.

Session 2: Economic Structural Transformation and Climate Emergencies.

This session aims to explore the economic challenges associated with limited diversification and dependence on low-value-added industries. It delves into the economic policies required to drive structural transformation, enabling African countries to specialize in higher-value segments of the value chain while at the same time providing the right technological tools to address climate emergencies effectively.

Session 3: Emerging Technology for Structural Transformation

This session aims to explore various channels through which technological solutions can be reached to address the multiple crises facing Africa. This includes the use of new technology for infrastructure development, building capability in production, and introducing innovation in business models, while enabling capital accumulation for long-term productive development.

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