Forum on Africa's indigenous peoples - A two-day forum on Africa's indigenous peoples rounded off Tuesday in Tunisia, with participants discussing relevant policies on indigenous peoples’ integration into development initiatives, organiser African Development Bank (AfDB) said.
According to an AfDB statement received here by PANA, the 'Forum on Indigenous Peoples’ Development Issues in Africa' brought together international experts, indigenous peoples groups, ministers, AfDB staff and other key stakeholders at the Sheraton Hotel in Tunis.
Aisha Abdullahi, Commissioner of Political Affairs for the African Union (AU), was said to have lauded the bank’s efforts in developing specific policies and guidelines on indigenous peoples, saying she looked forward to further collaboration among multilateral organisations.
Ahead of the AU's celebration of its 50th anniversary, Abdullahi expressed the hope that the continent would also honour the theme of Pan-Africanism and the African Renaissance.
Prof. Mthuli Ncube, AfDB Vice-President and Chief Economist, was also quoted to have said indigenous peoples were not “victims,” but should be seen as partners as well as beneficiaries for Africa’s development.
The two-day gathering (11-12 Feb) was geared towards ensuring that Africa's indigenous peoples 'benefit from economic growth as detailed in the bank’s long-term strategy.'
Pana 13/02/2013