On 25 September 2015, the United Nations adopted a set of goals focused on ending poverty, protecting the planet and ensuring prosperity for all as vital components of a new sustainable development agenda. These goals have specific targets to be achieved over the 15-year period 2015-2030 and require the committed and active participation of all sectors of society, including governments, the private sector, civil society and individuals. These goals form a critical component of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

In Africa, the dual commitment to the 2030 Agenda and to the implementation of the African Union (AU) Agenda 2063 informs the vision and plan to build a more prosperous and sustainable Africa within the next 50 years. The importance of the AU Agenda 2063 is emphasised within the 2030 Agenda where it is considered as an integral part of achieving its goals.

This Working Paper seeks to give a broad overview of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within an African context. The paper covers trade-related (and closely aligned) indicators used to measure the success of the SDGs in Africa and what developments have occurred in this regard. It also delves further into SDG linkages with the African trade agenda and indicates how regional integration as well as trade facilitation could and should feature prominently in their success. Finally, a short data study is conducted looking at proxies for green energy and sustainable development in Africa.

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