Summary
Highlights for Tuesday, 16 April 2019
The pre-events for the fifth session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD 5) were held on Tuesday, 16 April 2019, at the Palais des Congrès de la Palmeraie in Marrakech, Morocco. Participants convened throughout the day in three workshops:The Regional Preparatory Workshop for Africa Voluntary National Review (VNR) Countries: Strengthening Integrated and Voluntary National Review and Reporting of the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063 – this session created a space for peer-learning and experience sharing on VNR reporting and strengthening the capacity of those countries undertaking VNRs in support of SDGs and the Agenda 2063. Participants addressed the role of supreme audit institutions in implementation, follow-up and review of the SDGs, and discussed the expectations and formats of VNR reports.The Major Groups and other Stakeholders’ Capacity-building and Preparatory Meeting for ARFSD 5 – this meeting outlined strategies to enhance stakeholder participation in the follow-up and implementation of the SDGs. Discussions focused on: best approaches to facilitate joint implementation of the SDGs and Agenda 2063; the role of multiple stakeholders, including parliaments; inclusive policies, notably for children, women, disabled and aging populations; and measures to mobilize resources and overcome finance gaps.The Africa Regional Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Forum – this session raised opportunities for scaling up actions considering the role of STI in accelerating efforts to achieve the SDGs under review by ARFSD 5. These SDGs are: SDG 4 (quality education); SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth); SDG 10 (reduced inequalities); SDG 13 (climate action); SDG 16 (peace, justice and strong institutions); and SDG 17 (partnerships for the Goals).
IISD Reporting Services, through its ENB+ Meeting Coverage, provided daily web coverage from ARFSD 5. In addition IISD Reporting Services has published a summary report from ARFSD 5, which is available in HTML and PDF.
Photos by Ismail El Bouyakoubi/ECA
Africa Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Forum
Preparatory and Capacity Development Workshop for Major Groups and Other Stakeholders in Africa
Regional Preparatory Workshop for Africa Voluntary National Review Countries
