Social and Economic Development

Africa's rich and diverse resources have the potential to drive inclusive growth and alleviate poverty across the continent. Despite this potential, several factors hinder sustained development in the region. These include a slow pace of structural transformation, insufficient inclusive growth, limited economic integration in trade and infrastructure, and high unemployment rates, particularly affecting women and youth.

Furthermore, Africa is experiencing rapid and largely unplanned urbanization, leading to the risk of urban sprawl, which comes with various challenges such as congestion, pollution, inadequate urban services, and the emergence of slums. Although there have been improvements in access to education and health services, the quality of education and health service delivery remains a concern, as does educational inequality.

Driven by the lack of inclusive growth, political tensions, conflict, and natural disasters, Africa grapples with high rates of migration and brain drain, resulting in significant refugee and displaced populations. Addressing these challenges is paramount for Africa to attain sustainable development, prosperity, and peace.

Thus, this research area focuses on issues such as structural transformation and private sector-led development; inclusive growth; urbanization and infrastructure; human capital, labor market and migration; international trade, regional integration, and investment.