Ban Ki-moon urges African leaders to address inequality In a statement, Ban Ki-moon said Africa's economic prospects looks bright despite slum the global economy.

In a statement, Ban Ki-moon said addressing inequality is imperative so that the continent is not left behind.

He said Africa's economic prospects looks bright despite slum in the global economy.

According to him, growth in Africa is projected to increase to 4.4 per cent in 2016, from 3.7 percent in 2015.

He therefore urged "Africa’s leaders to use these gains to address rising social and economic inequalities, and ensure that no African is left behind."

"This is crucial for tackling root causes of conflicts, terrorism and violent extremism, and fostering peace and stability," he added.

He also commended Africa’s bold initiative on "Silencing the Guns by 2020", which is one of the flagship projects of Agenda 2063’s First Ten-Year Implementation Plan.He said: "Under Agenda 2063, Africa’s priorities include investing in its people, with an emphasis on women and youth; developing manufacturing and agro-processing; building transport, water, sanitation, energy and ICT infrastructure; domestic resource mobilization and stemming illicit financial flows; ending conflict; promoting human rights; and expanding democratic governance.

"Africa also has the opportunity to pursue industrialization in a more environmentally sustainable manner, including through climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy and arresting deforestation. I encourage African nations and their partners to spare no effort in advancing these priorities. The United Nations is committed in its support."According to him, "The private sector also has a key role to play in creating jobs, promoting innovation in technologies and services, and supporting the massive infrastructure transition needed to fulfil Africa’s sustainable development objectives."

He urged stakeholders to rally behind the transformative vision set out in the Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063, saying "what is good for Africa is good for the world."

Source:Ghanaweb