The Private Sector Forum (PSF) held its General Assembly on 16th and 17th November 2023 in Lusaka, Zambia. The assembly brought together stakeholders to discuss economic development, regional integration, and the implementation of the PACT of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR). The primary focus was to evaluate the PSF’s role in fostering economic development and regional integration and receive updates from member states on the implementation of the ICGLR Pact in relation to economic and development aspects.
Approximately fifty participants attended the event, with representation from each ICGLR Member State. Invitations were also extended to the ICGLR National Coordination Mechanism, the Office of the Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General to the Great Lakes Region, and nominated representatives of ICGLR Fora, among others.
One of the key topics of discussion was the draft PSF Strategic Plan (2023-2027) and its accompanying Action Plan. The assembly focused on finding ways to effectively implement the strategies outlined in the plan and address the challenges and opportunities faced by the PSF within the Great Lakes Region. The meeting also encouraged the sharing of best practices in managing the Secretariat and fostering collaboration with national governments and the ICGLR Conference Secretariat.
At the end of the general assembly, an effective and dynamic ICGLR PSF Committee was formed, and a clear roadmap for engagements within the Forum and with the Conference Secretariat was established. The assembly committed to mobilizing resources to support PSF initiatives, paving the way for Strengthening the Role of PSF in Security, Stability, and Development Implementation.
The meeting resulted in the creation of practical strategies and encouraged partnerships to enhance the private sector’s role in promoting socio-economic growth and stability throughout the Great Lakes Region. This is a significant advancement towards fostering economic development and integration across the region.
