19 May 2017: The third session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD 3) brought together over 400 representatives of governments, intergovernmental organizations, and major groups and other stakeholders in preparation for the July 2017 session of the High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF). ARFSD 3 convened under the theme, ‘Ensuring inclusive and sustainable growth and prosperity for all.’

ARFSD3 convened in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 17-19 May 2017. Pre-events held on 17 May included the tenth Session of the Committee on Sustainable Development (CSD-10) and the Preparatory and Capacity Development Workshop for MGoS.

CSD-10 reviewed implementation of the 2016–2017 work programme of the UN Economic Commission for Africa’s (UNECA) sub-programme on innovations, technologies and managing Africa’s natural resources. It also provided guidance on the work for the 2018–2019 biennium and the Voluntary National Review (VNR) Workshop. Organized by the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) and UNECA, the VNR Workshop strengthened preparations for the 2017 VNR through a regional exchange of experience and lessons learnt among African volunteering countries.

The Preparatory and Capacity Development Workshop for MGoS provided a briefing for MGoS on the follow-up and review process of the identified Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2017–2019: SDG 1 (No Poverty), 2 (Zero Hunger), 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 5 (Gender Equality), 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and 14 (Life Below Water).

ARFSD 3 met from 18-19 May and provided an opportunity to examine early results of implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including the SDGs, and Agenda 2063. Specific focus was placed on assessing the six sub-themes of the session: eradicating all forms of poverty in Africa; ending hunger and achieving food security in Africa; healthy lives and promoting well-being for all; gender equality and empowerment of all women and girls; building resilient infrastructure and promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization and innovation; and, conservation and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.

An outcome document from the event identifies Africa’s desire to stimulate sustainable growth on the continent, create employment and eradicate poverty in all its forms and dimensions, among other priorities. [IISD RS coverage of ARFSD 3][Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development website][UNECA Press Release]