The African continent requires an additional $194 billion in annual financing to meet the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, according to United Nations General Assembly President Philémon Yang.

At the 79th UNGA session in New York, Yang emphasized the urgent need for both international support and systemic reforms to aid Africa in achieving its development goals.

Yang emphasized that despite the continent’s vast potential, significant barriers remain. He pointed to the importance of aligning Africa’s progress with the SDGs and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, a long-term framework aimed at transforming the continent’s economic and social landscape.

He called the current period a crucial time to accelerate efforts toward peace, prosperity, and sustainable development.

In his address, Yang highlighted the challenges facing Africa, including energy shortages, food insecurity, and debt distress.