Press Release Nº110/2014

Africa prioritizes infrastructure to modernize the continent – Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 20 May, 2014: The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma has said that Africa is prioritizing infrastructural development to speed up the modernization of the continent. She was speaking in an audience with the visiting Governor-General of New Zealand, Honorable Sir Jeremiah Mateperae on Tuesday, 20 May 2014 at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The AU Commission Chairperson and the Governor-General held conversations discussing possible areas of cooperation between the African Union Commission and New Zealand. Areas of mutual interest identified among others included: agriculture and agro-processing, geothermal energy, and human capacity development.

Dr. Dlamini Zuma expressed keen interest in the continent having institutions both physical and e-space, to massively train its young people, noting that training is a key driver to speed up the continent’s skills revolution.

Sir Jeremiah Mateperae noted that his government encourages women to be innovative and to train in science and technology, adding that “engaging women has the greatest multiplier effect.”

New Zealand expressed interest to produce the second edition of the AU Handbook in English and French. The first edition of the handbook, modeled after the United Nations handbook, was produced and launched in 2013.

The AUC Chairperson and the New Zealand Governor-General also agreed on the importance of promoting people-people opportunities in the areas of sports and culture.

New Zealand is opening its new embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia thereby strengthening its relationship with Africa.

JEE/wzm