Zanzibar, Tanzania – Yesterday marked a historic milestone as the African Union Commission, in partnership with the African Union Development Agency-NEPAD (AUDA-NEPAD), and its dedicated Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) partners, unveiled the First 10-Year PIDA Implementation Report. This ground breaking report not only celebrates PIDA’s outstanding achievements over the past decade but also lays the foundation for an even brighter future of infrastructure development throughout Africa.

Since its inception in 2012, PIDA’s Priority Action Plans (PAPs) have been the driving force behind the acceleration of vital regional projects, ushering Africa closer to a united and prosperous continent. During the initial phase of PIDA (2012-2020), remarkable milestones were reached, including the construction of thousands of kilometers of roads and railways, the establishment of One-Stop Border Posts (OSBPs), and significant advancements in energy generation and transmission. These accomplishments have set the stage for continued progress.

In a compelling address at the launch event, H.E. Dr. Amani Abou-Zeid, African Union Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, emphasized, “Regional integration is the pathway to sustainable development in Africa. For far too long, insufficient infrastructure has hindered our continent’s ability to reach its full economic potential. PIDA (2012-2040) stands as a testament to the AU’s visionary commitment in action.”

Key Highlights from the First 10-Year Implementation Report:

• Electrifying Progress: Nearly 30 million people now have access to electricity, unlocking countless opportunities for growth and prosperity.
• Boosting Intra-Africa Trade: Investments in road and rail infrastructure have elevated intra-Africa exports by 16%, fostering regional integration and economic development.
• Ensuring Clean Water Access: A pioneering water transfer project provides clean water access to underserved communities, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable future.
• ICT Revolution: With broadband penetration exceeding 15% of the target, Africa thrives with e-commerce, mobile banking, e-education, and enhanced business efficiency.
• Job Creation: PIDA projects have generated 112,900 direct and 49,400 indirect jobs, empowering communities and fuelling economic growth.

Looking ahead, PIDA outlines a comprehensive strategy for the next phase of development:

• Innovation Acceleration: Leveraging innovation to expedite project implementation, ensuring a brighter future for Africa.
• Building on Success: Maximizing the impact of past achievements across the continent.
• Addressing Capacity and Funding Challenges: Ensuring the sustainability of PIDA initiatives by addressing capacity and funding challenges
• Sustainable Impact: Guaranteeing that infrastructure development leaves a lasting positive impact on Africa’s environment and communities.
• Fostering Collaboration: Encouraging partnerships and collaboration to strengthen collective efforts and drive inclusive growth.

AUDA-NEPAD’s Director of Infrastructure, Trade, Industrialization, Regional Integration, Mr. Amine Idriss Adoum, emphasized, “PIDA has emerged as a beacon of hope and progress, propelling Africa towards an era characterized by economic growth, regional integration, and improved livelihoods for millions of Africans.”

JICA Senior Vice President, Mr. ANDO Naoki, underscored the report’s significance, stating, “This report offers a real picture of progress and challenges for all stakeholders. It must be read and understood by Member Countries, Development Partners, stakeholders, and private sector participants.”

As Africa moves forward, bridging the substantial infrastructure financing gap remains a top priority. PIDA Phase 2 (2021-2030) requires substantial funding, estimated at $161 billion. To address this, tapping into private sector investments, green bonds, and climate finance is essential. PIDA aims to attract long-term investment and develop bankable projects that appeal to global institutional investors. Harnessing private investment on a larger scale will be pivotal to achieving this goal.

In a significant announcement, Mr. Mike Salawou, AfDB Director for Infrastructure, Cities, and Urban Development, highlighted the African Development Bank’s commitment, having invested USD 15 billion in infrastructure projects since PIDA’s inception.

As Africa stands on the threshold of unprecedented growth and prosperity, PIDA’s unwavering focus on responsible stewardship of natural resources and environmental sustainability remains paramount. PIDA PAP2 is designed to maximize job creation, environmental sustainability, gender responsiveness, and connectivity between urban and rural populations, paving the way to “The Africa We Want.”

For access to the PIDA First 10-Year Implementation Report, Click here.