Tanzania’s REPOA Hosts Major Regional Forum on Sustainable Economic Growth and Trade Expansion in Africa

Tanzania’s REPOA held its 28th Annual Research Workshop to discuss achieving sustainable economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Regional Forum on Sustainable Economic Growth and Trade Expansion in Africa

Tanzania’s Research on Poverty Alleviation (REPOA) organization held its 28th Annual Research Workshop to discuss the strategies for achieving sustainable economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa.

On 29th October 2024, Tanzania’s Research on Poverty Alleviation (REPOA) organization held its 28th Annual Research Workshop to discuss the strategies for achieving sustainable economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The event held in Arusha, themed “Pursuit of Sustained Growth and Trade Expansion,” brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and experts.

Discussions focused on the critical need for building resilient economies through sectoral collaboration, enhancing productive capacities, and integrating value chains.

The participants analyzed ways to overcome infrastructure bottlenecks and enhance competitiveness, fostering interconnected regional value chains.

Policy frameworks were also explored to expand trade networks within Sub-Saharan Africa and beyond as a crucial path to growth and economic integration.

In addition to regional trade, the workshop emphasized the significance of strategic partnerships. Key supporters included SAGCOT, the Tanzania Ministry of Trade and Industry, and CRDB Bank, along with collaborations extending beyond Africa, highlighting relationships with stakeholders from both the Global North and South.

Discussions addressed agreements with the European Union, United Kingdom, and United States, along with emerging partnerships with Asia and BRICS countries, emphasizing new trade opportunities to strengthen Africa’s presence in the global market.

The workshop also aligned trade strategies with the Sustainable Development Goals(SDG), prioritizing poverty reduction, agricultural productivity, and inclusivity.

A series of panels explored the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to generate jobs, stabilize economies, and boost intra-African trade amid global market fluctuations.

The event underscored the importance of partnerships in driving agricultural and industrial transformation and highlighted collaborative efforts to strengthen Tanzania’s productivity and integration into global supply chains, reinforcing economic foundations across Tanzania and the East African Community.

About REPOA

REPOA was established in 1994 as a non-governmental organization dedicated to addressing poverty through research and policy advocacy.

REPOA’s vision emphasizes the importance of engaging in policy research and dialogue that fosters inclusive development.

By conducting rigorous research and facilitating discussions among stakeholders, REPOA seeks to contribute to transformative socioeconomic changes that improve the lives of Tanzanians, particularly those living in poverty.

The organization participates in capacity-building programs aimed at enhancing the skills of policymakers and trade associations.

For instance, through programs like TadeCom II, REPOA works to strengthen understanding of trade policies and their implications for economic diversification.

By aligning its activities with national development goals, REPOA participates in shaping Tanzania’s socioeconomic landscape and fostering sustainable growth.

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