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The African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to cooperate in area of mutual concern related to development. This event took place in New York, United States of America on February 8, 2024. 

“The purpose of this memorandum of understanding is to provide a framework for the non-exclusive cooperation and facilitate and strengthen collaboration between AERC  and UNDP in various areas of cooperation,” said Prof. Dominique Njinkeu.

The two organizations have identified several activities in which cooperation may be pursued, with each organization operating subject to its respective mandates, governing regulations, rules, policies, and procedures.

The areas of mutual interest include development of a network of seasoned economists to conduct research in areas of shared focus across cross-cutting themes including but not limited to issues surrounding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and development economics.

AERC and UNDP will also develop a multilayer research plan aligned with African priorities to orient research activities around it. The UNDP will explore possibilities to include AERC in the African Economic Conference partnership with African Development Bank (AfDB) and United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA).  

This partnership will as well make it possible to explore possible joint research initiatives at regional and UNDP Country Office level, leveraging on the respective organization comparative advantages and presence. This will facilitate the exchange of data, research, information, analysis, and reports relating to activities of the two organizations and leverage networks as well as expertise in the interest of the organizations.

The MoU will support thought leadership and impactful innovative development solutions based on analysis, research and evidence and its operationalization shall be guided by an annual Joint Action Plan (JAP) agreed between the two organizations. The two parties will at such intervals as deemed appropriate, convene meetings to review the progress of activities being carried out under the MoU and plan for future activities.