Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 31st March, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The 2025 Least Developed Countries (LDC) Focal Points Workshop commenced today in Lusaka, marking a crucial step towards the upcoming Third LDC Future Forum, scheduled to begin on April 1, 2025. The workshop was officially inaugurated by Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, S.C., MP, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, who emphasized the significance of this gathering in shaping sustainable development strategies for LDCs.
Jointly organized by the Government of Zambia, the United Nations Office of the High Representative for LDCs, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS), and the Government of Finland, the event brings together key stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, business leaders, and development partners. Their discussions will focus on fostering economic resilience, addressing environmental vulnerabilities, and strengthening social structures to enhance the overall well-being of LDC populations.
In his keynote address, Minister Haimbe underscored the urgency of accelerating progress under the Doha Programme of Action (DPoA) as the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) deadline approaches. He highlighted the importance of reinforcing national mechanisms to effectively implement and monitor the DPoA, ensuring that LDCs stay on course toward their developmental milestones.
Reflecting on recent progress, the Minister acknowledged the successful graduation of São Tomé and Príncipe from the LDC category in 2024, describing it as a beacon of hope for other nations aspiring to achieve similar advancements. He urged delegates to leverage the workshop to refine strategies for mainstreaming DPoA objectives within their national frameworks and enhancing institutional capacities for tracking progress.
UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for UN-OHRLLS, Ms. Rabab Fatima, outlined four critical priorities for LDCs: national ownership and leadership, capacity-building and investment, advancements in science, technology, and innovation, and strengthened monitoring and accountability mechanisms. She emphasized the need for governments to integrate the DPoA into their development policies, backed by strong political commitment and inclusive governance structures. Additionally, she stressed the importance of prioritizing education, digital transformation, and infrastructure development to drive long-term economic growth and resilience.
Zambia’s role as the first African nation to host the LDC Future Forum underscores the country’s leadership in championing the LDC agenda on the global stage. The first two editions of the forum were previously held in Finland, making this year’s event a landmark occasion for the African continent.
As the workshop unfolds, participants are expected to engage in in-depth discussions, exchange best practices, and collaborate on actionable solutions to strengthen the development trajectory of LDCs, ensuring a more inclusive and sustainable future.
The Agency.