Catalyzing Macroeconomic Policy for Development in Sub-Saharan Africa

February 23 - 24, 2023

As many have noted, Africa’s story will drive world history in the coming century. With 46 countries, the continent is huge and diverse with close to 1.4 billion people. It contains some of the world’s most fragile states and is home to some of humanity's most dynamic entrepreneurs. The continent’s population growth rate of 2.7% is more than double that of South Asia, and much of the population boom will happen in the sub-Saharan region. Meeting development goals for both present needs and future investment requires smart policy and coordinated action.

This year’s conference will explore the macroeconomic policies sub-Saharan African countries should pursue to support development, growth, and long-term economic resilience. The conference will bring together policymakers, academics, and industry experts to explore four areas that will be critical for catalyzing macroeconomic development: industrial policy, monetary and fiscal policies, macroprudential regulations, and regional integration.

The annual conferences hosted by Princeton's Julis-Rabinowitz Center for Public Policy & Finance convene preeminent researchers, policy experts, and market practitioners from across the globe to exchange ideas and shed new light on the most pressing economic issues of our time. The conference also gives our students exposure to diverse viewpoints and as well as opportunities to interact with leading academics and policymakers.

The first day of the conference will feature a workshop with young scholars and new research. The following two days will feature talks by industry experts and policymakers highlighting innovative new policies in several countries in the region.