06/03/2026
🌍 UNEEP Champions Economic Empowerment for Sustainable Development
In May 2026, the United Nations Economic Empowerment Programme (UNEEP) convened a high-level Economic Empowerment and Sustainable Development Forum in Nairobi, Kenya, bringing together policymakers, development experts, entrepreneurs, financial institutions, and civil society representatives from across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
The forum focused on a critical global challenge: how nations can accelerate economic empowerment, reduce poverty, and create sustainable livelihoods while adapting to rapid technological, environmental, and demographic changes.
Key themes of the forum included:
🔹 Economic Inclusion and Job Creation
Expanding access to decent work opportunities, entrepreneurship support, and skills development for underserved populations.
🔹 SME Growth and Access to Finance
Strengthening support for small and medium-sized enterprises through innovative financing mechanisms, business development services, and market access initiatives.
🔹 Youth and Women's Economic Participation
Creating pathways for young people and women to actively contribute to and benefit from economic growth.
🔹 Sustainable Livelihoods
Promoting environmentally responsible economic activities that generate income while protecting natural resources.
🔹 Digital Transformation
Leveraging technology, digital finance, and innovation to increase economic opportunities and financial inclusion.
UNEEP presented successful initiatives from various regions:
âś… In East Africa, youth entrepreneurship programs supported by UNEEP have helped thousands of young business owners access financing, mentorship, and market opportunities.
âś… In South Asia, women's economic empowerment initiatives have enabled rural entrepreneurs to establish sustainable enterprises and increase household incomes.
âś… In Latin America, digital skills programs have equipped communities with the tools needed to participate in emerging technology-driven economies.
The discussions highlighted several global trends shaping the future of economic development:
• More than 600 million young people worldwide will enter the labor market over the next decade.
• Small and medium-sized enterprises account for over 90% of businesses globally and remain key drivers of employment.
• Nearly 1.4 billion adults still lack access to formal financial services.
• Climate change continues to impact livelihoods, particularly in vulnerable communities.
• Digital transformation is rapidly changing the nature of work and economic participation.
UNEEP reaffirmed that economic empowerment is one of the most effective pathways to sustainable development. By investing in people, strengthening local economies, expanding financial inclusion, and supporting entrepreneurship, nations can build resilient communities and create lasting prosperity.
Through partnerships with governments, development agencies, financial institutions, and the private sector, UNEEP continues to advance its mission of empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and promoting inclusive economic growth worldwide.
Together, we can build a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, contribute, and succeed.
Learn more about UNEEP's mission and initiatives:
[www.uneep.org](http://www.uneep.org)