AERC Research and Policy Summit 2025 Kicks Off in Nairobi
AERC Research and Policy Summit 2025 Kicks Off in Nairobi
International and local economic policy leaders have opened a three-day high-level Research and Policy Summit hosted by the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC).
The forum brings together economists, policymakers, scholars, private sector leaders, and development partners to explore new pathways for sustainable and inclusive growth in Africa.
Reclaiming Africa’s Economic Narrative
Speaking at the opening ceremony graced by the Principal Secretary for Economic Planning, Bonface Barasa Makokha, AERC Executive Director, Prof. Victor Murinde, described the summit as a timely platform to rally support for solutions that address Africa’s pressing macroeconomic and development challenges.
In remarks read on his behalf by PS Makokha, National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi urged delegates to reclaim Africa’s economic narrative. He noted that the continent’s development story has long been shaped by external prescriptions.
“Today, we must reclaim our narrative. We must define development not merely as GDP growth, but as inclusive prosperity, resilient systems, and dignified livelihoods. Africa’s moment is now,” CS Mbadi said. “We must not inherit development models we must invent them.”
He further challenged African nations to reduce overreliance on foreign aid. He argued that aid has supported progress but has also limited self-determination.
“For decades, foreign aid has been a lifeline, but it has also been a leash. That era must give way to self-reliance and innovation,” he said.
AERC Research and Policy Summit 2025 Kicks Off in Nairobi
A New Vision for Africa’s Development Priorities
The summit hosts eminent leaders including AERC Board Chair Prof. Ernest Aryeetey, Reserve Bank of South Africa Governor Dr. Lesetja Kganyago, Bank of Uganda Governor Dr. Michael Atingi-Ego, and senior representatives from central banks across the continent.
Prof. Murinde highlighted that the summit aligns with AERC’s new 10-year Strategic Plan (2025–2035), which focuses on strengthening Africa’s economic research capacity and shaping evidence-based policy.
“AERC is undergoing a strategic transition to respond to Africa’s evolving development priorities. This summit reaffirms our commitment to rigorous research, mentorship, and training,” he said.
Launch of the African Private Sector Platform
During the opening ceremony, AERC unveiled the African Private Sector Platform (APSP), a new initiative designed to deepen collaboration between researchers and the private sector.
AERC Board Chair Prof. Ernest Aryeetey said the platform will strengthen policy engagement and drive private-sector-led transformation.
“This strategy reinforces our mission to nurture world-class African economists and ensure African perspectives shape regional and global discourse. The Private Sector Platform creates a structured space for collaboration with industry and strengthens evidence-informed advocacy,” he said.
High-Level Dialogues and Research Presentations
A key highlight of the summit was a high-level roundtable featuring Central Bank Governors from Uganda, West African States, and Zambia. They discussed economic headwinds, policy coordination, and long-term resilience for African economies.
Over the three days, researchers will present new studies covering AERC’s core themes, including:
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Macroeconomic policy
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Trade and regional integration
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Labour markets and human capital
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Climate change and resilience
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Financial sector development and the digital economy
These sessions will allow experts to critique the research and strengthen policy recommendations for decision-makers across the continent.
AERC’s Continued Leadership in Economic Research
Established in 1988, AERC remains one of Africa’s leading institutions for economic research and capacity building. The Summit underscores AERC’s mission to support a strong, well-informed policy community capable of shaping Africa’s development and influencing global economic discussions.
