CSEA at the World Bank/IMF Annual Meetings

On October 14, 2025, Dr. Chukwuka Onyekwena, Executive Director of the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA), joined policymakers, development partners, and private sector leaders  at the World Bank/IMF Annual Meeting held at the Capital Hilton, Washington D.C.  During the  “Unlocking African Enterprise: Mobilizing the Private Sector for Jobs” participants  discussed how Africa can address its pressing employment challenge by harnessing enterprise and innovation. 
Dr. Onyekwena ’s highlighted four priorities: diagnosingAfrica’s jobs crisis with evidence; removing barriers that limit private sector job creation; empowering SMEs and entrepreneurs;, and leveraging regional integration through the AfCFTA to expand market opportunities. 
He also emphasised the need for  innovative financing models and enabling policies to drive  inclusive and sustainable growth. The discussion l underscored the critical role of effective collaboration between governments, investors, and development partners in creating an environment where businesses can thrive and generate jobs at scale. 
Drawing on successful case studies, participants demonstrated how private sector initiatives can drive transformative employment outcomes when supported by sound policy frameworks.