Call for Papers: 7th Congress of African Economists "Investing in Infrastructure for Productive Transformation in Africa".

The African Union (AU), through its Department for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry, and Minerals (ETTIM), invites African researchers, academics, practitioners, policymakers, and students to submit original, evidence-based articles for the 7th Congress of African Economists (CAE), scheduled from 10 to 12 November 2025, in Libreville, Gabon.

Under the theme “Investing in Infrastructure for Productive Transformation in Africa,” the Congress aims to foster evidence-based research and discussions on infrastructure financing, quality, and sustainability, while promoting innovative strategies to address Africa’s infrastructure gaps.

Objectives of the Call for Papers

The Congress aims to:

1.Foster evidence-based discussions on infrastructure financing, quality, and sustainability.

2.Highlight innovative financing instruments and strategies to address Africa's infrastructure gaps.

3.Promote regional integration through cross-border infrastructure and development corridors.

4. Address capacity-building needs and skills development for infrastructure projects.

5. Explore the role of energy and digital infrastructure in driving sustainable and inclusive growth.

Among the scientific articles received and evaluated, three (3) best articles will be awarded during the Congress of African Economists scheduled from December 2025. The three articles will be published by the African Union Commission in the African Integration and Development Review. Other top pertinent articles retained will be published in the Acts of the Congress.

The costs related to the participation of the three successful authors of the selected papers in the Congress will be covered by the African Union Commission. If an article is authored by a group of people, then the AU Commission will consider the possibility to cover the participation of one author.

For more details, please contact:

Dr. Patrick Ndzana Olomo | Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals Department, African Union Commission | E-mail: Olomop@africa-union.org

Ms. Rumbidzai Manhando | Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals | Department African Union Commission | E-mail: | ManhandoR@africa-union.org

Joseph Mireku Nti | Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals | Department African Union Commission | E-mail: mirekuj@africa-union.org