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Unlocking Economic Potential: Zamfara State Halal Economic Summit

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By Baba Yunus Muhammad

Zamfara State is gearing up for an unprecedented event that could potentially redefine its economic landscape – the Zamfara State Halal Economic Summit. This historic event, which is scheduled to take place in the state capital, Gusau in May 2024, represents a pivotal moment in Zamfara State’s quest for economic rejuvenation and sustainable growth, spotlighting investment prospects, harnessing potentials, and capitalizing on the burgeoning Halal economy. Set against the backdrop of socio-economic challenges, this Summit, being orchestrated by the Africa Islamic Economic Foundation (AFRIEF), an international Islamic development organization headquartered in the Republic of Ghana, and convened under the Distinguished Patronage of His Excellency, Dr. Dauda Lawal, the Executive Governor of Zamfara State, emerges as a beacon of hope, offering a strategic platform for growth and development.

At the heart of this endeavor lies a visionary approach to economic development – one that views industrialization as the cornerstone of transformation, progress, and poverty reduction. Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Dauda Lawal, the Zamfara State Government has made a strategic commitment to prioritize job creation and industrialization, recognizing them as pivotal drivers of development. This strategic agenda dovetails seamlessly with the broader imperatives encapsulated within the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aiming to significantly augment industry’s contribution to employment and GDP within the state.

The Zamfara State Halal Economic Summit transcends mere rhetoric – it represents a concrete manifestation of the State’s determination to harness the power of industrialization for the collective good. More than just a forum for dialogue, this summit serves as a catalyst for action – a platform where aspirations coalesce into actionable strategies and tangible outcomes.

At its nucleus lie the ambitious plans for establishing Special Halal Economic Zone and Rural Transformation Centers across the state, envisioned as engines of innovation, productivity and trade. The Summit serves as a catalyst for identifying and capitalizing on investment opportunities across various sectors. From agribusiness to Islamic finance, the summit offers a platform for investors to explore lucrative ventures and forge strategic partnerships with local stakeholders. One of the key investment prospects of the summit lies in the Halal food industry. With an increasing global demand for Halal-certified products, Zamfara can leverage its agricultural resources to become a hub for Halal food production and export. This not only creates opportunities for local farmers and agribusinesses but also positions Zamfara State favorably in the international Halal market.

A Special Halal Economic Zone (SHEZ) holds special significance within the context of the Halal economy. By designating an area specifically tailored to accommodate Halal industries and businesses, a Halal focused SEZ provides a conducive environment for investment, innovation, and trade. It offers streamlined regulatory frameworks, infrastructure development, and incentives to attract domestic and foreign investors interested in Halal-related activities. Additionally, a Halal focused SEZ serves as a focal point for research and development, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government to drive technological advancements and product innovation in Halal sectors.

Moreover, by clustering Halal-certified businesses within these zones, Zamfara State can create synergies, promote knowledge sharing, and drive economies of scale, thereby maximizing the potential of the Halal economy.

Driving this ambitious agenda forward is the Africa Islamic Economic Foundation (AFRIEF), which is steadfast in its commitment to galvanizing the global Islamic finance industry and mobilizing public and private sector investments to propel Zamfara State towards industrialization. With a strategic emphasis on key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and industrialization, AFRIEF lays the groundwork for a profound structural overhaul of Zamfara’s economic landscape.

To comprehend the full magnitude of the Zamfara State Halal Economic Summit, one must delve into the broader context of the global halal economy. Encompassing a diverse array of sectors including food, finance, tourism, cosmetics, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, and more, the halal industry represents a burgeoning market with exponential growth potential.

With an estimated global Muslim population exceeding 1.8 billion, the Halal market represents a significant economic force. According to the State of the Global Islamic Economy Report, global expenditure on Halal products and services is projected to reach $3.2 trillion by 2024, highlighting the immense potential for growth and innovation in this sector. With the global Muslim population on the rise and an increasing demand for halal-certified goods and services, tapping into this market presents unparalleled opportunities for economic expansion and diversification.

Furthermore, the Halal economy extends beyond religious considerations, encompassing principles of ethical consumption, sustainability, and social responsibility. As consumers become increasingly conscious of the origins and production processes of goods and services, the demand for Halal-certified products continues to rise. This trend presents opportunities for businesses and governments alike to capitalize on the Halal economy’s principles of integrity, quality, and inclusivity.

From Malaysia to the Middle East, the Halal economy transcends geographical boundaries, offering opportunities for collaboration and partnership on a global scale. Through initiatives such as the Zamfara State Halal Economic Summit, stakeholders have the opportunity to leverage the power of the Halal economy to drive sustainable development, foster prosperity, and build bridges across cultures and continents.

Against the backdrop of Zamfara State’s socio-economic fabric, characterized by its predominantly rural populace and agrarian economy, the potential benefits of the summit are manifold. By fostering an enabling ecosystem for industrialization and entrepreneurship, the summit holds the promise of unlocking Zamfara State’s latent economic potential, generating employment opportunities, and improving living standards.

Furthermore, the Summit serves as a conduit for attracting both domestic and foreign investments, facilitating technology transfer, knowledge exchange, and skills enhancement. Through strategic partnerships and collaborative initiatives, Zamfara State can harness its unique strengths and resources to emerge as a preeminent hub of halal-centric industries.

Additionally, the summit serves as a platform for knowledge exchange and capacity building, equipping local entrepreneurs and businesses with the skills and resources needed to thrive in the global Halal market. This not only enhances the competitiveness of Zamfara’s economy but also positions the state as a center of excellence in Halal-related industries.

In conclusion, the Zamfara State Halal Economic Summit represents a pivotal moment in the economic trajectory of the state and the broader Islamic economic community. By embracing the principles of the Halal economy and leveraging its inherent strengths, Zamfara has the potential to emerge as a beacon of prosperity and progress in the Federal republic of Nigeria. Under the visionary leadership of Governor Dauda Lawal and with the support of the Africa Islamic Economic Foundation, this summit is poised to chart a new course towards sustainable development, transforming challenges into opportunities, and realizing the aspirations of the people of Zamfara for a better, more prosperous future.

Baba Yunus Muhammad is President of the Africa Islamic Economic Foundation, Tamale, Ghana.


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EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

AFRIEF and ADFIMI to Host High-Level Virtual Dialogue on Leveraging Development Finance Institutions for Sustainable Economic Growth in ISDB Member Countries

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The Africa Islamic Economic Forum (AFRIEF), in collaboration with the Association of National Development Finance Institutions in Member Countries of the Islamic Development Bank (ADFIMI), is set to host a high-level virtual dialogue titled Leveraging Development Finance Institutions for Sustainable Economic Growth in ISDB Member Countries on March 6, 2025, under the theme: Catalyzing Sustainable Development in Africa: The Strategic Role of Development Finance Institutions in ISDB Member Countries.

This critical forum will bring together policymakers, development finance practitioners, and private-sector leaders to explore how Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) can drive sustainable economic growth across ISDB member countries, particularly in Africa. DFIs are uniquely positioned to mobilize resources, support high-impact projects, and foster innovative financing mechanisms to address critical economic challenges.

Key Objectives of the Event

The virtual dialogue will focus on:

  • Clarifying the Role of DFIs: Identifying key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, and renewable energy where DFIs can play a transformative role.
  • Showcasing Best Practices: Presenting successful case studies and innovative approaches from DFIs in ISDB member countries.
  • Enhancing Collaboration: Strengthening synergies among DFIs, governments, private-sector stakeholders, and philanthropic organizations.
  • Innovating Financing Models: Exploring blended finance strategies, Sukuk bonds, and other Islamic finance instruments to accelerate development.
  • Promoting Inclusivity: Ensuring financial access for marginalized groups, particularly women and youth.

Expected Outcomes

The event aims to deliver:

  • A Collaboration Framework to strengthen partnerships among DFIs, IDB member countries, and other stakeholders.
  • Innovative Financing Recommendations to address Africa’s sustainable development challenges.
  • Policy Recommendations to enhance the regulatory and operational environment for DFIs.
  • Strategic Alliances between DFIs, governments, and the private sector to drive economic transformation.
  • An Outcome Document summarizing key insights, recommendations, and a roadmap for strengthening DFIs in ISDB member countries.

Program Highlights

The three-hour event will feature a keynote address by the Secretary-General of ADFIMI, a high-level panel discussion on Strategic Synergies for Sustainable Growth, and focused dialogues on Empowering Women and Youth through DFI Interventions and Green Financing and Climate Resilience.

Why This Event Matters

Africa, home to many ISDB member countries, possesses vast potential but faces critical challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, underdeveloped industries, and limited access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This event will provide a strategic platform to drive solutions that harness the full potential of DFIs to catalyze sustainable economic growth.

Registration & Participation

This virtual dialogue is open to policymakers, financial institutions, business leaders, and development experts interested in shaping the future of development financing in ISDB member countries. Interested participants can register here.

For media inquiries, partnerships, or further information, please contact: Hussain Yaqub, Event Coordinator, info@afrief.org


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AFRIEF Launches Inaugural New Year School to Explore the Dynamics of a Changing Global Economy

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The Africa Islamic Economic Forum (AFRIEF) is pleased to announce the launch of the Inaugural AFRIEF New Year School, an innovative educational platform designed to explore the complexities of the global economy in a time of unprecedented transformation. The school will begin in January 2025, marking a new chapter in economic thought leadership.

As the world witnesses a shifting economic landscape, with power moving from the West to the East and North to the South, AFRIEF aims to provide a space for scholars, practitioners, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to gain in-depth knowledge and practical tools for navigating these changes. The program is specifically designed to explore the evolving role of Islamic economics and finance, offering participants a comprehensive understanding of this alternative economic system and its potential to shape a more inclusive and sustainable global economy.

“We live in a time where global economic dynamics are rapidly changing. The AFRIEF New Year School offers a timely opportunity to reflect on these shifts, and to engage with experts and thought leaders on the best ways to address the challenges and opportunities presented by these transformations,” said Mr Baba Yunus Muhammad, President of AFRIEF.

Program Overview:

The AFRIEF New Year School will offer a diverse curriculum, including:

  • Islamic Economics as an Alternative Economic System
  • The Role of Islamic Finance in Global Economic Development
  • Sustainable Development and Social Equity
  • Islamic Entrepreneurship and Innovation
  • Global Economic Shifts and their Impact on Africa

Participants will engage with a range of experts from across the globe, discussing the latest trends and innovations in Islamic economics and finance, and how they can be leveraged to tackle global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability.

Aims of the Program:

The program’s objectives include:

  • Empowering participants with insights into the past, present, and future of global economics.
  • Providing actionable tools for navigating the changing economic landscape.
  • Promoting innovative thinking and solutions within the framework of Islamic economic principles.
  • Building a global network of thought leaders, scholars, and practitioners focused on sustainable economic development.

About AFRIEF:

The Africa Islamic Economic Forum (AFRIEF) is a platform dedicated to promoting Islamic economics, finance, and development across the African continent and beyond. Through its educational programs, research, and advocacy, AFRIEF seeks to foster inclusive growth, promote financial literacy, and contribute to shaping a more just and sustainable global economy.

The AFRIEF New Year School will provide a unique opportunity for participants to learn, network, and collaborate with like-minded individuals committed to advancing Islamic economic thought and practice.

Registration:

Registration for the AFRIEF New Year School is now open. Interested participants can visit the official website  for more information on course offerings, speakers, and registration details.

For press inquiries or further information, please contact: info@afrief.org

 


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Global Vision 2000 Think Tank Hosts 8th Eschatology Event

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The Global Vision 2000 Think Tank is set to host its 8th Eschatology Conference under the theme: “Entering the Final Stages of End Times.” This pivotal event aims to explore the profound and transformative shifts reshaping the world, engaging diverse religious and academic perspectives.

Conference Highlights

The conference unfolds at a critical juncture marked by:

  • Global Reset and Transition: A world shifting from a unipolar to a multipolar power structure.
  • Twin Crises: A convergence of economic turmoil stemming from an impending global financial meltdown and escalating regional wars, particularly in Ukraine and the Holy Land.

As tensions rise globally, regional conflicts increasingly involve major world powers, heightening fears of a third world war. These challenges underline the urgency for societies, policymakers, and individuals to prepare effectively for the profound uncertainties ahead.

Eschatology and the Current Global Context

Director Moeen Yaseen emphasizes:
“This year’s eschatology conference coincides with an unprecedented period of transition, particularly as we approach significant geopolitical shifts, including the new U.S. administration under the Trump regime. We aim to bring clarity to the Abrahamic eschatologies, focusing on unfolding realities in the Holy Lands and their broader implications.”

Key topics will include:

  • Economic Crisis: Exploring the decline of the Western monetary system, escalating debt crises, and the long-term consequences of monetary debasement and hyperinflation.
  • Regional Conflicts and Global Power Dynamics: Examining the intensifying volatility in Ukraine and the Holy Land.
  • Post-Capitalist Futures: Projections of what might emerge after the collapse of the current monetary and capitalist systems, including post-humanism and techno-feudalism.

Interfaith and Scholarly Dialogue

The conference will feature an interfaith panel of leading Jewish, Christian, and Muslim scholars, thinkers, and journalists, fostering a rich dialogue on:

  • Jewish, Christian, and Islamic Eschatologies: Comparative insights on prophetic traditions and end-time narratives.
  • Implications for Syria and the Holy Land: Discussions on their roles as eschatological flashpoints.
  • The Role of Technology and Society: Addressing the challenges of techno-feudalism and the hijacking of religious narratives.

Shaping the Discourse for a New Era

This conference underscores the importance of understanding and navigating these turbulent times. As economic systems face collapse and geopolitical tensions escalate, Global Vision 2000 seeks to provide critical perspectives to illuminate the path forward.

For more information and to register for this landmark event, visit Global Vision 2000’s website or contact us at [contact details].

About Global Vision 2000
Global Vision 2000 is a forward-thinking think tank focused on exploring transformative global challenges and solutions, with a particular emphasis on economic, societal, and eschatological frameworks. Global Vision 2000 is a strategic partner of the Africa Islamic Economic Forum.


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