Building resilience in africa through transformation and a green economy: Challenges and opportunities

Abstract

This paper reviews the transformation opportunities and threats for a resilient society in Africa. The debate about the place and timing of a green economy in Africa is intense and receives attention at all levels of society. Africa is blessed with an abundance of resources, yet its people remain poor and vulnerable to exogenous shocks. New technology imbedded in a green economy and green agriculture could provide opportunities for development but it could also have the opposite unintended effect. Africans rightfully ask if it is morally justifiable for the developed world to expect African countries to implement green technologies in order to reduce CO2 emissions while first world countries developed their economies with cheaper and well-known technologies. The challenges in Africa are complex and not only centered on technology or the lack thereof. Governance and policy should be used to create an enabling environment for the implementation of new and green technology for economic growth and development. Examples of major infrastructural development projects in parts of Africa are evidence that African leaders in some countries already recognize its importance. Most of these project focus on transportation, energy generation/distribution, and water related services. The food-water-energy nexus is critical for the future development in Africa and innovative technology should be utilized to increase access to education, unlock the potential of natural resources, increase the efficiency of transport systems, unlock markets, and to increase the efficiency of food production, food storage and food distribution.