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:

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.

Submissions should provide innovative recommendations and actionable strategies for infrastructure development at institutional, national, and continental levels. Submission Deadline: 05 September 2025

The Congress of African Economists (CAE), held every two years, is a key platform for addressing critical economic issues impacting Africa’s transformation. This edition will focus on mobilizing resources, improving infrastructure quality, and ensuring investments drive sustainable and inclusive growth in line with  Key Themes identified to address Africa’s infrastructure gaps.

Outcomes will be shared with African governments, RECs, and international partners through a final report, policy briefs and publication of the African Integration and Development Review. The AU and its partners will work with stakeholders to implement recommendations, monitor progress, and report on achievements at future Congresses.

We encourage all interested parties to participate and contribute to shaping Africa’s infrastructure development agenda. Submission Deadline: 05 September 2025

For further information, please contact:

Dr. Patrick Ndzana Olomo Head, Economic Policy and Sustainable Development, Department for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals Email: OlomoP@africa-union.org

Rumbidzai Manhando, Programme Coordinator, African Union Financial Institutions, Department for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism,Industry and Minerals Email: ManhandoR@africa-union.org

Media Contact

Ms. Janet Faith Adhiambo Ochieng | Communication | Directorate of Information and Communication| African Union Commission | E-mail ochiengj@africa-union.org

Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org 
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