Africa Industrialization Day is celebrated annually on every 20th of November to raise awareness about the significance and importance of the industrial development of Africa. The day also highlights the challenges associated with it.
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Date of Africa Industrialization Day Observance
20th of November.
History of Africa Industrialization Day
During the 25th OAU session in July 1989, 20 November was announced to be Africa Industrialization Day.
Later on 22 December 1989, the day was declared to be marked by the UN General Assembly as well.
Africa Industrialization Day was first marked on 20 November 1990.
On 21 March 2018, a number of countries signed AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area), an agreement for developing the largest trade area in the world for goods and services.
Its operations are supposed to be effective on 1 January 2021 after 54 signatures and 28 ratifications.
Africa Industrialization Day Observations
Africa Industrialization Day is observed by the governments and authorized organizations to stimulate the industrial development processes around the African countries.
The day is also marked by drawing the attention of the global media towards:
- The challenges faced by Africa’s nations in industrialization
- The problems that can prove to be the milestones in industrial development
The day is commemorated by observing the events throughout the week.
Significance of Africa Industrialization Day
Africa holds the second position in the case of population. Despite having one of the most populated continents, its value addition and contribution to global manufacturing is not very high.
On Africa Industrialization Day, many national and local leaders, representatives, and organizations come together and assess the past year’s progress.
The dedicated events are coordinated and observed. Many statements from the leaders and economists also float.
Different entities from different sectors unite to raise global consciousness about the importance of the industrial development of Africa.
Making aware the international community that out of 50 least developed countries, 30 belong to Africa, also remains one of the prime goals.
