The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) launched the Alliance for I4.0 and Smart Manufacturing in Africa (AISMA) on 28 November 2023 in the margins of the twentieth session of UNIDO General Conference. This new Alliance aims at unlocking the potential of smart manufacturing in Africa by raising awareness on Industry 4.0, fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders within the Industry 4.0 ecosystem and facilitating the adoption of frontier technologies in manufacturing companies across the continent.
AISMA will provide a collaboration platform for a wide range of experts from academia, industry, private sector, policy makers, technology providers, financial institutions or any other structure relevant to the adoption of Industry 4.0 within the African continent. The network of experts will focus on exchanging knowledge and expertise, sharing best practices and forging strategic partnerships on Industry 4.0 related themes such as industry applications, digitalization technologies, skills development, scientific research and innovation, standardization and policies/strategies, just to name a few. AISMA will also offer a number of tools and support functions to its members.
AISMA ultimately aims to promote Africa’s integration, generate inclusive and sustainable development, stimulate job creation, empower people and break the digital divide, in accordance with the UN Secretary-General’s call to establish a Global Digital Compact that upholds shared principles for an open, free, and secure digital future for all. It also aligns with the goals and objectives set by the African Union through the Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa (2020-2030).
For its launch, several leading experts from various organizations committed to support UNIDO’s efforts to enhance Africa industrial competitiveness and sustainable development through Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing.
Through this pioneering initiative, UNIDO remains committed to promoting cooperation and strong partnerships at regional and global levels for pursuing the digital agenda of the African Union in the AfCFTA context. Through collaborative initiatives, networks, shared expertise, resources, convening power and awareness, UNIDO continues to pave the way for advancing the digital transformation of Africa and its inclusive and sustainable industrial development.
