On October 2, 2024, ETTG, in collaboration with the Ukama platform, ECPDM, and IDDRI, hosted a closed-door workshop in Brussels titled “Leveraging Green Industrialisation for a Just Transition: Africa-Europe Strategic Partnerships.” This event brought together key stakeholders from European policy makers to representatives of African organizations to discuss the critical intersection of green industrialisation, just transition, and strategic partnerships between Africa and Europe.
The workshop was co-chaired by two eminent figures in climate and development:
- Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke, Director of the Center for Climate and Development, Nigeria
- Dr. Sébastien Treyer, Director General of IDDRI
Moderated to Elisabeth Hege, Senior Research Fellow, Governance and Financing of Sustainable Development at IDDRI / Ukama Platform
Context and Objectives
As the EU recalibrates its industrial policy and prepares a new Clean Industrial Deal, this workshop aimed to address the opportunities and potential risks for developing countries, particularly in Africa. The discussion focused on how the EU and Africa can forge strategic partnerships in green industrialization, a shared priority for both continents.
Key discussion points included:
- Implications of the EU’s Clean Industrial Deal and the Draghi report for EU-Africa partnerships
- Aligning Africa’s goals for job creation and increased value in global supply chains with Europe’s aim to reduce dependence on China and strengthen its industrial base
- Strategies for collaboration on green industrialisation that ensure fair and context-specific transitions
- Reconciling divergent priorities: Africa’s focus on inclusive economic transformation and Europe’s emphasis on strategic autonomy
The Ukama Platform
The workshop built upon the work of the Ukama platform, which has led a series of papers and discussions on green industrialisation and just energy transitions over the past three years. The platform brings together high-level sustainability thinkers from across Africa and Europe.
Outcome and Next Steps
The discussions were informed by two policy briefs, providing a foundation for in-depth dialogue on fostering mutually beneficial partnerships. The insights gathered from this workshop will contribute to shaping future policies and strategies for sustainable and equitable green industrialisation in both Africa and Europe.
ETTG extends its gratitude to all participants for their valuable contributions to this crucial dialogue on shaping a greener, more equitable future for both continents.
