Development challenges in Africa in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an unprecedented social and economic crisis in Africa and the rest of the world. The social and economic consequences across the world are likely to be severe with respect to public health outcomes as well as global economic slowdown. Many countries in Africa have enacted policies to suppress the transmission of COVID-19 that may have met public health objectives, but have negatively affected economic activities and livelihoods of the poor.

This conference brought together participants from scholarly, policy and business communities to discuss the policy challenges faced by Africa in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Featuring presentations from leading scholars and policy makers the conference provided a forum to discuss the socioeconomic implications, development challenges and potential policy solutions to the crisis in the context of the African continent.

Session videos and presentations

Session 1: Opening and keynote address

• Presentation: Keynote address, Vera Songwe

Session 2: Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on African economies

• Presentation: Stephen Karingi, UNECA

Session 3: Implications of COVID-19 pandemic on livelihoods and welfare

• Presentation: Effects on employment and earnings, Michael Danquah & Simone Schotte
• Presentation: The mitigating role of tax and benefit rescue packages, Jesse Lastunen
• Presentation: Gender perspectives of COVID-19, Isabella Schmidt

Session 4: The new normal and future development of Africa

• Presentation: Role of development partners, Santala
• Presentation: Emerging opportunities, Njuguna Ndung'u