WASHINGTON- The Minister of Finance Planning and Economic Development Hon Matia Kasaija has commend Microeconomic and Financial Institute for East Africa (MEFMI) for its commitment to addressing climate change, marked by the ongoing activities to develop institutional capacity in member countries.
While speaking at the 30th-Anniversary luncheon for Microeconomic and Financial Institute for East Africa combined Forum during the ongoing 2024 Annual Meeting of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) at Mayflower Hotel in Washington DC, Minister Kasaija, noted that the dedication to promoting economic stability and sustainable development in the region is truly commendable.
Minister Kasaija who represented the Malawi Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Hon Simplex Chithyola, was giving a vote of thanks at the event, extended sincere appreciation to financial partner, Trade Development Bank (TDB), for their support and also thank the Oxford Martin School for developing the issues paper on climate change and macroeconomic management, which started this conversation in 2023, and for their consistent support at Microeconomic and Financial Institute for East Africa events.
He said that the discussions under the theme, “Climate Financing” have been incredibly informative and thought-provoking, shedding light on the intricate relationship between climate financing and debt sustainability.
The Minister also hailed the Microeconomic and Financial Institute for East Africa (MEFMI) Executive Director, Dr Kasekende, and his team for organizing the successful Forum saying that their hard work has made the event timely and turned it into an important event.
Minister Kasaija appreciated the translators for their efficient services, ensuring seamless simultaneous translation for the Portuguese-speaking member countries and asked members to complete the post-event evaluation forms since their feedback is crucial to inform future events.
He acknowledged the Institute’s dedication to promoting economic stability and sustainable development in the region saying it is milestone that marked three decades of excellence, and is honored to have shared in this journey saying that the celebration will be an opportunity to reflect on Microeconomic and Financial Institute for East Africa three decades of building capacity and will continue celebrating its legacy and commitment to economic prosperity and resilience in the region.
During the event, Prof Christopher Adam presented a compelling paper on ‘Climate Finance and Debt Sustainability: Challenges and Opportunities for African Economies and Mr Reginald Max presented insights on Accelerating Climate Finance In Africa: Central Banks And Finance Ministries At The Helm Of Sustainable Transition – Promoting Resilience and Sustainable Growth.
Dr Situmbeko Musokotwane and Dr Natu E. Mwamba who also addressed the Forum, provided valuable perspectives on the complexities of climate finance and the moderator, Uganda’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance and Secretary to the Treasury, Dr Ramathan Ggoobi, skilfully guided the proceedings and ensured that every voice was heard.