African Innovators at Irish Aid/World Bank Forum in Dublin

African Innovators at Irish Aid/World Bank Forum in Dublin

“…we must all innovate or be left behind”

–Conor Lenihan TD, Minister of State

 More than 40 high-level policy makers and entrepreneurs from six African countries meet today in Dublin Castle to discuss strategies to promote innovation in Africa. The Forum, which takes place over the next three days, is titled Innovation in the African Context: A Forum for Policymakers.

Hosted by Irish Aid and the World Bank Institute, the Forum brings together senior policymakers from Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda to discuss innovation policies, systems and practices. African and Irish business people and policymakers will share their experiences of using innovation to drive economic success. Opening the forum, Minister of State for Irish Aid, Conor Lenihan TD, said:

“Innovation is the lifeblood of the global economy and Ireland recognises its importance to sustainable development and poverty eradication. Increased competition and new technologies mean that we must all innovate or be left behind. This event is an important opportunity for Ireland and Irish Aid to support our African partners in promoting innovation in their countries.”

Workshops during the Forum will examine obstacles to innovation and recent trends in economic development. Chile, Vietnam and Botswana will feature as case studies in innovation practice.

Further information on the Forum is available at www.irishaid.gov.ie