Industrial Expert Set To Speak On Indusrialisation In Zambia

Professor Douglas Boateng, an industrial expert, is set to deliver a keynote speech on September 23, 2026, at the largest professional gathering on supply chain and industrialization in Livingstone, Zambia. This event, organized by the African Supply Chain Confederation (ASCON), will focus on the theme "Breaking down Barriers through Made in Africa."

Professor Boateng will argue that African-manufactured products should bear the "MADE IN AFRICA" label, accompanied by the country of production, such as "MADE IN AFRICA, Produced in Ghana" or "MADE IN AFRICA, Produced in Zambia." He believes that this labeling will serve as a shared continental identity, fostering a sense of economic family among African nations.

According to the conference statement, Professor Boateng believes that genuine continental integration necessitates more than just customs posts and trade agreements. Instead, it requires dismantling psychological, procurement, and institutional barriers that prevent Africans from producing, trading, and confidently buying from one another.

He emphasizes that Africa has historically exported raw materials, imported finished goods, and subsequently lamented the lack of industrial jobs on the continent. He asserts that every significant procurement decision is an industrialization decision, as institutions' spending choices determine which factories receive demand, which workers remain employed, and where future productive capabilities will be built.

John Kirani, the Secretary General of ASCON, highlights that the conference will provide an opportunity to connect Africa's professional capabilities with its broader industrial ambitions. Professor Boateng's address will challenge the attendees to integrate national productive strengths into a stronger African economic ecosystem.

The conference organizers commend Professor Boateng for his contributions to supply chain and industrialization across the continent. However, they also express the hope that the desired outcome will not only be containers arriving at ports but also the emergence of African industrialization.