MaryAnne Iwara's journey as a 2023 MIF Fellow at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa
03 September, 2024
My Journey as a Mo Ibrahim Fellow at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa The opportunity to serve as a Mo Ibrahim Fellow at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) in Addis Ababa has been nothing short of transformative. Reflecting on this incredible year, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and insights gained, which have significantly shaped both my professional and personal life.
Most Memorable Aspect of My Fellowship
Among the many memorable moments, the most impactful was my involvement in organising the three major conferences of the Commission – the African Business Forum, the African Conference of Ministers of Finance, Economic Planning and Development, and the African Regional Forum on Sustainable Development. These high-profile events brought together key stakeholders from across the continent and beyond, providing a unique platform for dialogue on critical economic and developmental issues. The opportunity to lead the coordination efforts of key activities/segments such as the high-level round tables and the side events at these conferences offered me deep insights into the intricacies of intergovernmental collaboration, the art of negotiation, and the strategic planning necessary to drive meaningful outcomes in economic policy and sustainable development. Being at the heart of these discussions was exhilarating and deeply fulfilling, reinforcing my commitment to advancing economic development and peacebuilding in Africa.
Unique Opportunities and Skills Gained
The fellowship afforded me unique opportunities that would have been otherwise inaccessible, and I will highlight four standout experiences.
First, the exposure to new knowledge in areas like Africa's blue economy, innovative financing for development, and reforming the global financial architecture. With my background in Peace and Security in Africa, these fields were both new and intriguing. Engaging with experts and stakeholders broadened my understanding of leveraging diverse economic strategies and policies for sustainable development. This experience underscored the interconnectedness and relevance of my work to broader socio-economic development.
Second, the fellowship provided me with hands-on experience to showcase my advisory skills on high-stakes issues impacting Africa's development. This was evident in my support to the Deputy Executive Secretary and Vice Chair of the Africa Regional Collaborative Platform, thereby ensuring the full coordination of UN regional assets to address key challenges that transcend country borders, and effectively pool expertise to meet the specific needs of each country in the region. The exposure offered me the unique opportunities to participate in high-level policy discussions, and initiatives of regional collaboration and coordination, in addition to enhancing my advisory skills. It also provided me with practical experience in supporting senior UN officials, while engaging in multi-sectoral fields.
In addition to the above, I was privileged to represent UNECA as a high-level panelist on a peace and security workshop, alongside other experts at the African Union. This responsibility, aside from exposing me to new and important networks, honed my skills in public speaking, strategic thinking, and collaboration, while deepening my understanding of the complexities of regional peace and security issues. I found this experience to be a strong testament to UNECA's trust in my abilities and its commitment to addressing critical issues in Africa.
Lastly, collaborating with various UNECA divisions to prepare briefing documents, speeches, and monitor the implementation of directives provided me with a holistic view of organisational operations. Reviewing the organisation’s communication strategy was another critical opportunity. It not only sharpened my strategic planning skills but also underscored the importance of effective communication in garnering support for organisational initiatives.
Personal Growth and Perspective
On a personal level, the fellowship has been a journey of immense growth and self-discovery. Living and working in Addis Ababa, a city rich in history and culture, broadened my horizons and deepened my appreciation for Africa's diverse heritage. The experience also allowed me to build lasting relationships with colleagues and stakeholders from various backgrounds, enriching my professional network and fostering a sense of global community.
Additionally, the fellowship enhanced my ability to navigate complex socio-political landscapes and adapt to rapidly changing conditions. Reviewing quarterly activity reports and financial statements to measure progress towards regional integration and socio-economic goals taught me the importance of agility and strategic thinking in addressing development challenges.
Conclusion
My tenure as a Mo Ibrahim Fellow at UNECA has been a cornerstone of my career, equipping me with invaluable skills and experiences that will continue to guide my professional journey. It has been a privilege to contribute to UNECA's mission and witness the profound impact of our collective efforts on the African continent.
I am profoundly grateful to the Mo Ibrahim Foundation for this extraordinary opportunity. The fellowship has not only advanced my career but also deepened my commitment to promoting peace, security, and economic development in Africa. As I move forward, I carry with me the lessons learned and the inspiration drawn from this remarkable experience, ready to continue working towards a brighter future for our continent.