- Italy pledges 5.5 billion euros for African Development at the Italy-Africa Summit.
- The focus is on renewable energies, infrastructure and “Green cities” for Africa’s project.
At the Italy-Africa Summit on January 29, 2024, Prime Minister Georgia Meloni unveiled a 5.5 billion euro plan for African development, focusing on renewable energies and infrastructure. Aligned with the “Green Cities for Africa” project, the plan signifies Italy’s commitment to a new partnership with Africa.
Meloni aims to strengthen ties, create a European energy hub, and address emigration concerns with the 5.5 billion euro initiative. The Rome Process Financing Facility commits 100 million euros, with 90% as concessional financing, for African infrastructure, including renewables, water, sanitation, agriculture, training, and job creation.
The FAO Director-General expressed gratitude for Italy’s leadership and collaboration in the “Green Cities for Africa” project, part of the FAO’s Green Cities program, addressing Africa’s urbanisation challenges. Emphasising urgency, the FAO highlighted projections that by 2030, 70% of the world’s population will live in cities, with Africa and Asia facing significant increases.
Italy’s collaboration is crucial for sustainable urban development and alleviating strain on agri-food systems.