Africa Industrialization Day (AID) was first declared during the 25th Ordinary Session of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1989, when Heads of State and Government recognized that industrialization is central to Africa’s economic independence, competitiveness, and resilience. This declaration, later endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly, affirmed industrial development as a cornerstone for achieving the continent’s long-term growth and structural transformation.

AID serves as a continental platform to celebrate Africa’s progress in advancing industrial development while reflecting on the challenges that continue to shape the continent’s path toward inclusive and sustainable transformation. The commemoration offers an opportunity for Member States, Regional Economic Communities (RECs), the private sector, civil society, and development partners to renew their shared commitment to Agenda 2063, which envisions “an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.”

Since then, Africa has made significant strides in its industrial landscape. Sectors like manufacturing, agro-processing, and information and communication technology (ICT) have witnessed notable growth. This progress is fueled by a young and dynamic workforce, coupled with growing investments in infrastructure and technological advancements.

Since 2018, Africa Industrialization Day (AID) has been celebrated with a week of events, dubbed "Africa Industrialization Week" (AIW). This shift allows for deeper discussions and activities around industrialization's critical role in Africa's development.

Africa Industrialization Day (AID) 2018 - Promoting Regional Value Chains in Africa: A pathway for accelerating Africa’s structural transformation, industrialization and pharmaceutical production”.
Africa Industrialization Day (AID) 2019 – “Positioning African Industry to supply the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCTA) Market"
Africa Industrialization Day (AID) 2020 – “Inclusive and sustainable Industrialization in the AfCFTA era”
Africa Industrialization Day (AID) 2022 - Industrializing Africa: Renewed commitment towards an Inclusive and Sustainable Industrialization and Economic Diversification.
Africa Industrialization Day (AID) 2023 - Accelerating Africa's Industrialization through the Empowerment of African Women in Processing for an Integrated Market.
Africa industrilization Day (AID) 2024 - Leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Green Industrialization to Accelerate Africa's Structural Transformation.

Source: African Union