Africa Industrialization Day

  As the world marks Africa Industrialization Day on 20 November , UNIDO Director General, Gerd Müller reflects on the continent’s progress and the urgent investments needed to drive sustainable, competitive industrial growth. In this op-ed, he outlines why Africa stands at a defining moment—and what must happen next to unlock its full industrial potential. Africa enters 2025 at a pivotal moment in its development. The ambition to transform the continent’s economies through sustainable industrialization, regional integration, and innovation is clearer than ever, and is picking up pace. The foundations are being laid. Industrial strategies are expanding, regional integration is progressing, infrastructure projects are advancing, and a young, dynamic private sector powers local economies. Africa’s GDP growth remains among the highest globally, with more than 20 countries expected to have exceeded 5% growth in 2025. Manufacturing value added has increased in several sub-regions, and ...

  The world stands at a critical juncture. After decades of falling poverty and rising living standards, progress has stalled and, in some cases, reversed. The 2007-09 global financial crisis slowed momentum, with the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbating the trend. Now, rising geopolitical conflict risks entrenching this decline. Ongoing low productivity and limited economic diversification leave developing countries more exposed, adversely affecting local value chains and the supply of goods globally. The result: extreme poverty has barely decreased since 2015 and is increasingly concentrated in fragile, conflictprone states, in particular in sub-Saharan Africa.  The prevailing global development model has proven to be unsustainable, externalizing the environmental, social and economic burdens of resource overexploitation especially onto developing countries. The costs of accelerating resource depletion, biodiversity loss and climate change fall hardest on those nations least able ...

  International production networks have expanded dramatically over the past three decades, enabling many developing countries to integrate into global value chains ( GVCs ). By leveraging comparative advantages in low-cost labor and resource endowments, these countries have increased formal employment and exports. Yet, such gains have often come at the expense of long-term economic, social and environmental sustainability. Industrial conditions today are increasingly dynamic and heterogeneous. While many GVCs are mature and operationally efficient, others are undergoing significant disruption. Climate change, geopolitical tensions and supply chain shocks are amplifying the need for more resilient, diversified and localized production systems. At the same time, digital technologies and services are reshaping patterns of consumption, production and trade across all sectors. For developing countries, adapting to this shifting landscape requires a strategic approach to supply chai...

 The  General Conference (GC)  is  UNIDO 's supreme policymaking organ where all Member States meet once every two years. It determines the  guiding principles and policies of the Organization , and approves the budget and work programme of UNIDO. Every four years, the GC appoints the Director General. The Conference also elects the members of the  Industrial Development Board  and the Programme and Budget Committee. Watch the Twenty-first session of the General Conference – 9th Plenary! Conferences

The General Conference (GC) is UNIDO's supreme policymaking organ where all Member States meet once every two years. It determines the guiding principles and policies of the Organization, and approves the budget and work programme of UNIDO. Every four years, the GC appoints the Director General. The Conference also elects the members of the Industrial Development Board and the Programme and Budget Committee. Watch the Twenty-first session of the General Conference – 8th Plenary! Conferences

   The event will introduce the Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion (EDIP) Modality, highlighting its Incubation Management Systems as a framework for nurturing entrepreneurship and innovation . The session will spotlight young entrepreneurs/innovators driving industrial transformation in Saudi Arabia and globally. Watch the Youth Success Stories - Voices of Impact: Youth Shaping Industry in Saudi Arabia and Beyond! Conferences

The General Conference (GC) is UNIDO 's supreme policymaking organ where all Member States meet once every two years. It determines the guiding principles and policies of the Organization , and approves the budget and work programme of UNIDO. Every four years, the GC appoints the Director General. The Conference also elects the members of the Industrial Development Board and the Programme and Budget Committee. Watch the Twenty-first session of the General Conference – 8th Plenary! Conferences

   This highly interactive session explores how stronger connections between universities and industries can unlock new pathways for youth employability, innovation, and sustainable industrial growth. Drawing on Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and its leadership in education–industry collaboration , the session will  highlight how partnerships between academia and the private sector can equip young people with the skills, experiences, and opportunities needed to succeed in the industries of the future. Building Bridges: University-Industry Partnerships for Workforce Transformation: Insights from Saudi Experience Conferences

   This spotlight session aims to motivate youth across the world to pursue excellence, embrace lifelong learning, and contribute with confidence to their nation's progress and global development . Watch Spotlight: Inspiring Generation Future! Conferences

This session aims to showcase how young innovators developing moonshot prototypes to address critical industrial, technological, and sustainability challenges can accelerate their journey from concept or MVP to market through the UNIDO Open Innovation Program (ScaleX). The discussion will demonstrate how mentorship, expert guidance, access to global networks, and investment can foster cross-disciplinary and cross-border collaboration. Watch the NextGen Missions Lab! Conferences

This 90-minute regional event will explore how cities across Asia and the Pacific are advancing inclusive industrialization , smart infrastructure , and climate-resilient growth. Featuring the launch of UNIDO's Sustainable Cities white paper , the session aligns with UNIDO's expertise and tools for sustainable urban-industrial development . Watch Bridge for Cities: Fostering smart and inclusive cities in the Asia-Pacific region! Conferences

As the UNIDO Youth Framework officially launches, this flagship session sets the stage for Generation Future Day by turning vision into action. It explores how youth can be empowered to drive industrial transformation and innovation , and how governments, private sector leaders, and global advocates can work together to make this transformation inclusive, sustainable, and future-oriented . A Framework for Future-Makers: Inspiring the Next Generation of Industry Leaders Conferences

High-level launch of the Generation Future Day of the 21st session of the UNIDO General Conference. Watch the Igniting the Future: Supporting Global Youth in Industry! Conferences

As the day opens, this dynamic session sets the tone for Generation Future by exploring entrepreneurship as a cornerstone of industrial transformation . It will inspire participants to see how young innovators can shape inclusive and sustainable industrial growth through creativity, collaboration, and bold action. Watch Bridging Innovation Gaps: Fostering Entrepreneurship! Conferences

As global industries transform, unlocking the full potential of youth talent has become a defining challenge and opportunity of our time. This session explores how to harness the creativity, innovation, and skills of young people to shape the industries of the future and accelerate progress toward inclusive and sustainable industrial development. Watch uture Ready – Unlocking the Global Talent Pool! Conferences

As industries transform at record speed, this session explores how young people can gain the skills, creativity, and adaptability needed for the economies of the future . Leaders from government and industry will discuss how public–private partnerships can align training systems with evolving industrial needs and empower youth . Showcasing initiatives like Saudi Arabia's AI-powered National Skills Platform and global best practices, the session connects to UNIDO's Youth Framework pillars. Watch a Vision for Skills Transformation! Conferences

The Youth Parliament is a global debate platform organized jointly by UNIDO and Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, empowering young leaders to shape forward-looking industrial policies. It brings together youth delegates from diverse regions to exchange perspectives, debate innovative solutions and develop tangible policy recommendations. Watch Youth Parliament - Youth as Drivers in Shaping Future-Ready Industrial Policies! Conferences

   This session will present UNIDO's Vision 2050, The Future of Industries for Development , and launch the Industrial Development Report 2026 , the analytical foundation of the vision. Against a backdrop of global transformation, the session will highlight the role of sustainable industrialization in driving jobs, income, and inclusive prosperity while integrating social, environmental, and cultural priorities . Watch reparing for the future of industrialization: UNIDO's Vision 2050 and launch of the Industrial Development Report 2026! Conferences

  This panel discussion will examine how gender-lens and impact finance can contribute to more resilient and competitive industrial development in Latin America and the Caribbean . It will bring together representatives from government, regional institutions, and private sector investors to exchange perspectives on expanding access to finance for inclusive and climate-responsive industrial growth . Wach Gender-lens and impact financing for sustainable industry (LAC region!) Related Sites and Documents:  Global Industry Summit . Meetings & Events

This high-level panel event will bring together representatives from UNIDO Member States and civil society to express their support for the establishment of an International Day of Women in Industry (IDWI). The session will highlight the importance of creating a global platform to recognize and celebrate women's contributions across industrial sectors. Related Sites and Documents:  Global Industry Summit . Mobilizing Recognition of Women in Industry: The Next Step Meetings & Events

   This event will showcase initiatives, results and good practices that advance gender equality in industry. Through lived experiences and concrete examples, speakers will illustrate how gender-responsive policies , inclusive value chains , and approaches to advance gender equality in entrepreneurship and the workplace are driving change. Related Sites and Documents:  Global Industry Summit . Watch Empowerment through inclusion: proven strategies for gender equality in industry! Meetings & Events

The fashion and textile industry represents a unique intersection of economic opportunity, cultural expression, environmental responsibility, and social impact. As one of the world's most globalized and labor-intensive sectors , it plays a critical role in industrial development , especially in low-income and emerging economies where it provides significant employment, particularly for women. Watch from cotton to fashion: Advancing global gender equality across the value chain! Meetings & Events

   The General Conference (GC) is UNIDO's supreme policymaking organ where all Member States meet once every two years. It determines the guiding principles and policies of the Organization, and approves the budget and work programme of UNIDO. Every four years, the GC appoints the Director General. The Conference also elects the members of the Industrial Development Board and the Programme and Budget Committee. Related Sites and Documents: Global Industry Summit . Watch the Twenty-first session of the General Conference – 6th Plenary! Meetings & Events

This session explores how the Gulf region's sweeping economic transformation is creating new opportunities for women to lead innovation, advance in technical sectors, and shape sustainable industry. The discussion will examine how policy reforms, education initiatives, and innovation ecosystems across the GCC are converging to empower women and position them as key drivers of the green and digital transitions . Related Sites and Documents:  Global Industry Summit . Watch the advancing Women in Industry: Regional insights with global impact - the experience of Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council! Meetings & Events

This interactive session will convene global leaders to share insights, foster mentorship, and inspire the next generation in advancing gender equality in industry . The programme features thought-provoking keynotes from international and local role models, followed by a dynamic panel discussion offering diverse industry perspectives. Participants will co-create actionable strategies to accelerate women's leadership worldwide. Related Sites and Documents:  Global Industry Summit , Watch the EmpowerHER: mentorship, networking and the future of women's leadership in industry! Meetings & Events

The panel discussion explores how industrial policy can serve as a catalyst for inclusive growth by addressing persistent gender gaps and enhancing women's participation in high-technology and leadership roles. Related Sites and Documents:  Global Industry Summit . Watch the Bridging the gap: Global Challenges and solutions for women in industry! Meetings & Events

This high-level side event marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and explores how gender equality drives inclusive and sustainable industrialization. It will highlight the critical role of women in shaping the future of industry and economy, especially in the context of digitalization and the green transition. Watch Empowering Women, Transforming Industry: Leadership for a Sustainable Future! Meetings & Events

The inter-regional side event will foster dialogue between Europe and Central Asia and the Arab region to identify opportunities for cross-regional industrial cooperation, technology transfer and investment promotion . Bringing together ministries, business leaders and financial institutions, the event will highlight successful innovation partnerships and explore new mechanisms for mobilizing investment, enhancing access to finance and technology , as well as accelerating the green and digital transition . Related Sites and Documents:  Global Industry Summit Watch Technology transfer and investment dialogue: connecting Europe and Central Asia with the Gulf for sustainable industrial growth! Meetings & Events

   The event will spotlight women's leadership in industry through TED-style talks from a dynamic panel of women entrepreneurs, leaders and innovators. Despite persistent barriers to finance, technology, and networks, women are driving industrial transformation, especially amid green and digital transitions. The session will showcase real-world stories of resilience and innovation, promote inclusive entrepreneurship, and inform gender-responsive policies. Related Sites and Documents:  Global Industry Summit . Watch ambition and Impact: Women shaping the Future of Industry! Meetings & Events =

   The General Conference (GC) is UNIDO's supreme policymaking organ where all Member States meet once every two years. It determines the guiding principles and policies of the Organization, and approves the budget and work programme of UNIDO . Every four years, the GC appoints the Director General. The Conference also elects the members of the Industrial Development Board and the Programme and Budget Committee. Related Sites and Documents:  Global Industry Summit . Watch the Twenty-first session of the General Conference – 5th Plenary! Meetings & Events

Building resilient SIDS economies through sustainable industrialization explores how inclusive and sustainable industrial development can serve as a catalyst for prosperity in SIDS ( Small Island Developing States) . Aligned with the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS) , the session will feature a high-level panel discussion bringing together representatives from SIDS, regional organizations, and donor partners. Watch Building resilient SIDS economies through sustainable industrialization! Meetings & Events

   High-level launch of the Women's Empowerment Day of the 21st session of the UNIDO General Conference , centered around the theme "Women's Role in the Future of Industry and Economy". Related Sites and Documents:  Global Industry Summit Watch the Introduction to Women Empowerment! Meetings & Events

  The General Conference (GC) is UNIDO's supreme policymaking organ where all Member States meet once every two years. It determines the guiding principles and policies of the Organization, and approves the budget and work programme of UNIDO. Every four years, the GC appoints the Director General. The Conference also elects the members of the Industrial Development Board and the Programme and Budget Committee. Watch tge twenty-first session of the General Conference – 7th Plenary Conferences

  Industry is the backbone of economic progress and wealth creation. It creates jobs, drives innovation and strengthens resilience. For developing countries, industrialization is one of the most reliable ways to reduce poverty and build a lasting foundation for a more prosperous future. Investing now in sustainable industrialization is the smartest choice amid shrinking official development assistance worldwide. Industry is the key to generating income for workers and for businesses, as well as for the public sector through tax revenues. This in turn enables investments in broader societal development, from education and healthcare to infrastructure, thereby reducing aid dependency in the long term. But today, financing for industrial development is endangered. Many countries are reducing development assistance as global crises put pressure on public budgets. However, new opportunities are also opening up. Domestic resources, foreign investment, remittances, and blended finance can...

This high-level session marks the official launch of UNIDO's Fair Share Programme , introduced by a short film contrasting fashion's global allure with its social and environmental costs . The film features collaborations with OTB Group in Tunisia and Versace in Egypt, demonstrating how circular, inclusive, and ethical production can unite creativity with responsibility . Watch the aunch of Fairshare: UNIDO's programmatic framework on sustainable supply chains! 01:24:30 Meetings & Events

The high-level side event " Industrial Recovery for Resilience: UNIDO Industrial Recovery Programmes " aims to demonstrate UNIDO's role in supporting industrial recovery in conflict- and crisis-affected countries and to reinforce the role of inclusive and sustainable industrial development in building peaceful and prosperous societies. It will end in a call to action for UNIDO's partners to support industrial recovery in countries affected by conflict or crisis. Watch Industrial Recovery for Resilience: UNIDO Industrial Recovery Programmes 01:24:02 Meetings & Events

A fast-paced showcase where award-winning innovations meet strategic investors - Driving the Future of Industry. Related Sites and Documents:  Global Industry Summit . Watch innovators Meet Investors! 01:54:06 Meetings & Events

This session explores innovative public-private partnership (PPP) models that drive investment and sustainable agribusiness development , focusing on replicable strategies across regions and commodities. The panel discussion will build the case for a PPP approach and showcase emerging and successful models to enhance collaboration between governments, private sector actors, international finance institutions and development partners to foster resilient and climate-smart agribusiness ecosystems . Related Sites and Documents:  Global Industry Summit Watch Towards a world without hunger: Scaling sustainable agribusiness through public-private partnerships! 01:53:40 Meetings & Events

   The energy transition offers unprecedented opportunities to advance green industrialization , foster inclusive growth , and build resilient economies . A just transition can drive innovation and sustainable industries in developing and emerging economies utilizing the increasing demand for minerals vital to clean technologies . Related Sites and Documents:  Global Industry Summit . Watch The transformative power of just energy transitions for industrial development! . 01:53:31 Meetings & Events

Organized by UNIDO , this side event gathers representatives from MICs, financial institutions, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss " Mobilizing Finance for Industrial Development in Middle-Income Countries . " Building on the Rabat and Makati Declarations and the Seville Commitment, the event advances UNIDO's strategic framework supporting MICs' sustainable industrialization and SDG achievement . As a technical partner and convener, UNIDO ensures MIC priorities shape global development policy . Related Sites and Documents: Global Industry Summit . Watch Mobilizing finance for industrial development in middle income countries! 01:53:53 Meetings & Events

The Africa Investment Roundtable seeks to mobilize strategic investment and partnerships to accelerate Africa's industrial transformation. By showcasing investment-ready flagship projects aligned with Agenda 2063 and the AfCFTA , and by advancing innovative financing mechanisms including blended finance, co-investment platforms, and public–private partnerships, the Roundtable aims to de-risk capital flows and unlock large-scale, sustainable industrial investments. Watch the Africa Investment Roundtable! Meetings & Events

Shaping Industrial Futures : Investment and Technology Promotion as Engines of Transformation brings together leaders from the UNIDO Investment and Technology Promotion Network ( ITP Network ) and Saudi Arabia's industrial sector to showcase innovations advancing inclusive and sustainable industrial development (ISID). Related Sites and Documents:  Global Industry Summit . Watch Shaping industrial futures: Investment and technology promotion as engines of transformation! 02:52:10 Meetings & Events

   This dynamic session explores how Saudi Arabia is harnessing private-sector leadership to develop Centres of Excellence (CoEs) that accelerate innovation , close skills gaps , and drive sustainable industrial transformation . Featuring a TED-style talk and a high-level panel, it highlights how Saudi CoEs, anchored by partnerships between government, industry and investors, are shaping future-ready economies. Related Sites and Documents;  Global Industry Summit . Watch the Synergy and scale: Driving sustainable development through private sector-led Centres of Excellence - The Saudi model! 01:53:16 Meetings & Events

The General Conference (GC) is UNIDO 's supreme policymaking organ where all Member States meet once every two years. It determines the guiding principles and policies of the Organization , and approves the budget and work programme of UNIDO . Every four years, the GC appoints the Director General. The Conference also elects the members of the Industrial Development Board and the Programme and Budget Committee. Related Sites and Documents;  Global Industry Summit , Watch the Twenty-first session of the General Conference – 4th Plenary! 01:53:09 Meetings & Events