UNGA 79: 5 key takeaways for African Leaders to act on.

By: Murtala Adogi Mohammed

As I returned from the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), I came back with a deepened resolve and new perspectives on the global stage and Africa’s place within it.

This year’s UNGA was a pivotal moment, where the future took center stage. Across the main sessions and the eleven (11) side events I attended, one message was clear – the decisions we make today will shape our tomorrow. For African leaders, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity.

The central discussions at UNGA 79 emphasized that Africa must play a critical role in shaping the world’s future. From multilateral collaboration to advancements in technology, health, and climate adaptation, Africa is at a crossroads. If our leaders act now, they can carve a path toward sustainable progress. Here are five immediate actions—what I call “low-hanging fruits” – that African leaders must focus on:

1. The Future of Multilateral Collaboration and Sustainable Development – Africa’s engagement in global conversations can no longer be passive. Our leaders must assert themselves in the international dialogue, especially when it comes to driving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

UNGA 79 unveiled three vital frameworks— The Pact for the Future, The Global Digital Compact, and The Declaration on Future Generations – each of which provides a roadmap for integrating these global strategies with African national priorities. Aligning our strategic plans with the right financing mechanisms is key to ensuring real, measurable outcomes.

2. The Future of Education and Learning – Africa’s education system needs a radical overhaul. The future demands that our youth, particularly girls, are prepared with the skills to compete in the digital economy. UNGA 79 made it clear that the Fourth Industrial Revolution is not waiting for anyone, and neither should Africa.

Our leaders must prioritize education reforms, especially in areas like technology, AI, and digital literacy. Frameworks from UNICEF, UNESCO, GPE, and ITU introduced a six-pillar strategy for inclusive and equitable education—tools that African leaders can immediately adapt and implement.

3. The Future of Health and Nutrition – Africa’s health systems must be strengthened, not only to provide universal healthcare but also to address the root causes of malnutrition, which remains a significant issue on the continent. One of the major conversations at UNGA 79 was the link between health, nutrition, and agricultural development.

The Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) 2023 report on global food security, alongside Bill Gates’ Goalkeepers 2024 Report, emphasized that nutrition must be integrated into broader development agendas. This is a pressing opportunity for African leaders to take immediate action.

4. The Future of Climate Change Adaptation – Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it’s a reality that Africa must address head-on. While preparations for COP29 in Azerbaijan are underway, now is the time for African leaders to solidify their commitment to climate adaptation policies.

We must seize opportunities in green innovation and sustainable energy if we are to protect our future and lead the charge on climate action. This UNGA was a wake-up call—Africa’s climate resilience must be built now, not later.

5. The Future of Technology, Innovation, and AI- Africa’s potential as a leader in the digital era is immense, but only if we harness the power of emerging technologies. From artificial intelligence (AI) to data innovation, the continent has the opportunity to leapfrog into the future.

UNGA 79 highlighted Africa’s need to capitalize on digital technologies for both economic and social development. As the Ithra Sync Humane AI & Digital Wellbeing 2024 Report suggested, we must train the next generation—Generation Alpha—to thrive in this digitally disruptive world. African leaders can no longer afford to delay—they must act now.

My Final Thoughts:

Africa’s future is in the hands of its leaders. As we move forward from UNGA 79, the road ahead is clear. My five takeaways provide a blueprint for action, but they require immediate and decisive leadership. The time for Africa to rise is now, and the world is watching.

Murtala Adogi Mohammed.
Founder/CEO,
System Strategy & Policy Lab (SSPL)

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