Research brief: FfD4 cannot be business as usual

What does Africa expect from the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development? Not handouts, but fairer rules.

Today we release key takeaways and recommendations from the 2025 Ibrahim Governance Weekend, in the context of the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) in Seville (30 June-3 July).

In the new global order, business as usual is no longer an option. Africa is not attending FfD4 to ask for more pledges. Instead, it is calling for a new, fairer system that prioritises sustainable partnerships.

Based on our 2025 Facts & Figures report and the conclusions of the Ibrahim Governance Weekend, these recommendations include: 

1. Align with Africa’s priorities and commitments: Placing African priorities, as set out in Agenda 2063 and elsewhere, at the heart of international cooperation with the continent.
2. Maximise Africa’s domestic financial resources: Strengthening African countries’ capacities to retain and better mobilise their own domestic financial resources.
3. Adequately monetise Africa’s natural assets: Monetising Africa’s natural assets beyond raw commodities exports to ensure value addition locally and increased revenues.
4. Attract investment in Africa: Aligning with the high returns on investment on the continent, creating an enabling environment that attracts additional private capital, including African.

Read our full recommendations to see what Seville must deliver and how Africa’s voice is shaping the future of international cooperation in our latest research brief.