Housing construction is an industry that inevitably develops alongside economic growth. The lack of housing and the quality of housing are among the most pressing problems in most African countries today. Participants in the Russia–Africa Economic Forum will discuss ways to develop joint solutions and gain experience in the construction of modern housing during the session ‘Current Objectives in Developing the Housing Construction Market on the African Continent’ on 23 October.

Welcome addresses will be delivered by Russian Minister of Construction, Housing, and Utilities Vladimir Yakushev.

The session will be moderated by Russian Deputy Minister of Construction, Housing, and Utilities Nikita Stasishin. The following representatives of key African ministries will give speeches at the session: Samuel Atta Akyea, Minister of Works and Housing of the Republic of Ghana; Alamine Ousmane Mey, Minister of Economy, Planning and Regional Development of the Republic of Cameroon; Peya Mushelenga, Minister of Urban and Rural Development of the Republic of Namibia and others.

The speakers will determine the most pressing issues facing African countries in the construction sector. They will identify the real needs and opportunities on the markets of different cities around the continent. Of course, Africa needs massive affordable housing above all else. Perhaps attracting partners from other countries will help find the best solutions to these problems.

“Russian construction companies have extensive experience in housing construction that is designed for consumers with different income levels. Businesses may be interested in implementing projects in Africa, both in terms of the development of integrated construction solutions and directly in development projects”, Yakushev said. “Taking advantage of Russia’s experience will enable the construction business in African countries to reach a new level. And we are ready to support our companies in these matters”.

The session’s programme provides for a discussion that aims to find answers to pressing questions concerning housing construction in African countries. Such questions include government mechanisms to support foreign investment, how to start large-scale residential development projects, and how to ensure universal access to safe and affordable housing.

The Russia–Africa Summit and Economic Forum will take place on 23–24 October in Sochi at the  Sirius Park of Science and Art. The events are being organized by the Roscongress Foundation, and the co-organizers of the Russia–Africa Economic Forum are Russian Export Center and Afreximbank.

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The Roscongress Foundation is a socially oriented non-financial development institution and a major organizer of international conventions, exhibitions, and public events.

The Roscongress Foundation was founded in 2007 with the aim of facilitating the development of Russia’s economic potential, promoting its national interests, and strengthening the country’s image. One of the roles of the Foundation is to comprehensively evaluate, analyse, and cover issues on the Russian and global economic agendas. It also offers administrative services, provides promotional support for business projects and attracting investment, and helps foster social entrepreneurship and charitable initiatives.

Each year, the Foundation’s events draw participants from 206 countries and territories, with more than 15,000 media representatives working on-site at Roscongress’ various venues. The Foundation benefits from analytical and professional expertise provided by more than 2,500 people working in Russia and abroad. In addition, it works in close cooperation with economic partners from 94 countries worldwide.

www.roscongress.org