Kenya is currently hosting the 14th Africa Ministerial Cooperatives Conference in Nairobi, convened by the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA). The conference brings together ministers, policymakers, and cooperative leaders from across the continent to deliberate and share knowledge aimed at fostering inclusive and sustainable community-driven solutions.
Under the theme, “From Commitment to Action,” the gathering underscores the need for practical implementation of cooperative strategies to drive Africa’s socio-economic development.
Speaking during the conference, the Cabinet Secretary for Small, Micro, and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Honorable Wycliffe Oparanya, acknowledged the persistent obstacles facing the continent. “Africa is experiencing formidable challenges such as poverty, hunger, high inflation, mounting debts, and unemployment,” Oparanya said. “However, we must not allow these challenges to define us. Instead, we must embrace solutions.”
Oparanya’s remarks come amid encouraging economic forecasts. The African Development Bank projects that Africa’s economy will grow by 3.7% in 2025, up from an estimated 3.4% in 2024, with growth expected to accelerate to 4% in 2026. Much of this growth is anticipated to be driven by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which is poised to unlock new opportunities for trade, industrialization, and economic integration across the continent.
On this note, the CS emphasized the critical role of partnerships in driving growth. “Trade, agriculture, and enterprise development cannot thrive in isolation,” Oparanya noted. “We must strategically unite under the African spirit with outcome-driven collaborations that leverage our strengths and resources. The AfCFTA presents a unique platform to advance this vision, facilitating the free movement of goods, services, and people to foster a truly integrated African economy.”
Central to the conference’s agenda is the urgent call for the removal of trade barriers that have long hindered intra-African commerce. Oparanya urged African nations to dismantle tariffs, streamline customs procedures, and harmonize regulatory frameworks to stimulate mutual economic growth and shared prosperity. “By tearing down these walls, we open doors for innovation, investment, and job creation across all sectors,” he asserted.
Closing his remarks, the Cabinet Secretary highlighted the transformative potential of cooperatives in Africa’s development journey. “Together, we can make cooperatives a cornerstone of African transformation,” he declared. Further advising the need to have the conference frequently to learn and move together.
The 14th Africa Ministerial Cooperatives Conference serves as a critical platform for African nations to reaffirm their commitment to unity, collaboration, and solution-oriented action, principles that are vital for overcoming the continent’s challenges and unlocking its vast potential. As Kenya hosts this landmark event, the message from CS Oparanya is clear: Africa’s future hinges on its ability to work together under the African Union’s banner, embracing innovation, cooperation, and inclusive growth for all.
Oparanya took over the Africa Ministerial Cooperative Conference Chairmanship from Major General Eng. Waleed Farouk Saeed Elbarody, representative of the Ministry of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities, Egypt.
