"By working together to accelerate Africa’s industrialization and boost intra-African trade we can ensure a more prosperous and sustainable future for all the continent’s people"
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
Message for the International Day for Africa Industrialization
20 November 2012
Plastic Recycling Industry/SMTP, Madagascar. Photo: UNIDO
Theme for 2012: Accelerating industrialization for boosting intra-African trade
Within the framework of the Second Industrial Development Decade for Africa (1991-2000), the UN General Assembly, in 1989, proclaimed 20 November Africa Industrialization Day (resolution 44/237). The Day is intended to mobilize the commitment of the international community to the industrialization of Africa.
This year’s Africa Industrialization Day highlights the important role intra-African trade can play in reducing poverty, increasing food and nutrition security and supporting sustainable development.