The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) attracted leading economists, researchers and academics from Africa and beyond for the Fourth International Biennial Macroeconomics Symposium (IBMS26) which explored pathways to sustainable economic growth and the continent’s evolving policy challenges.
Hosted by UKZN’s Macroeconomics Research Unit (MRU), the two-day event was held under the theme: ‘Climate Change, Sustainable Growth and Macroeconomic Dynamics in Africa’, providing a platform for evidence-based debate on economic resilience, financial stability and inclusive development.
Opening the symposium, UKZN economist and MRU founding member Professor Harold Ngalawa emphasised the importance of research and innovative thinking in addressing emerging economic pressures and advancing sustainable growth.
Welcoming delegates, Acting Dean and Head of the School of Commerce, Professor Serestina Viriri, highlighted the economic implications of environmental challenges, particularly for investment, infrastructure and public finances.
“Climate action is not simply an environmental imperative. It is also an economic necessity,” said Viriri, noting that decisions on energy, public investment, taxation and infrastructure would have lasting consequences for future generations.
He also highlighted the symposium’s alignment with Goal 3 of UKZN’s Strategic Plan 2023-2032, which prioritises excellent, high-impact research, innovation and entrepreneurship.
The symposium programme explored the relationship between environmental pressures and economic growth in South Africa, the effects of carbon taxation on corporate investment, the inflationary implications of green fiscal reforms, and the links between climate risk, financial stability and institutional quality in sub-Saharan Africa.
Professor Christopher Malikane of the University of the Witwatersrand delivered a keynote address titled: ‘Political Economy and Climate Change: An African Perspective’, examining the political and economic dimensions of the continent’s response.
Opening the second day of the conference, Dr Tidiane Kinda, the International Monetary Fund’s Senior Resident Representative for South Africa, presented a paper titled: ‘Regional Economic Outlook: Hard-Won Gains Under Pressure’, which further strengthened discussions on Africa’s economic prospects and policy priorities.
At the symposium’s gala dinner, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation, Professor Anil Chuturgoon, emphasised the importance of research that responds meaningfully to societal challenges.
“Climate change can no longer be treated as an issue confined to environmental science. Its consequences are increasingly being felt across economies, affecting growth, public finances, food security, infrastructure and livelihoods,” said Chuturgoon, who also underscored the value of African scholarship, locally informed solutions and international research collaboration.
Complementing the main programme was a dedicated track on: ‘Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Inclusive Sustainable Development in Africa’, chaired by Professor Evelyn Derera of UKZN’s School of Commerce. Discussions explored inclusive economic participation, including agricultural co-operatives in rural KwaZulu-Natal and enterprise supplier development to expand opportunities for Black-owned small, medium and micro enterprises.
The symposium drew scholars from Nigeria, Malawi, Morocco, Ghana, Poland, Germany and Rwanda, alongside researchers from South African universities, creating opportunities for knowledge exchange and future collaboration.
A key message emerging from IBMS26 was the importance of translating academic research into practical solutions that inform public policy and help governments, businesses and communities navigate economic uncertainty.
The symposium reaffirmed the value of African-led research and collaboration in shaping a more resilient, inclusive and sustainable economic future for the continent.
Words: Hazel Langa
Photographs: Andile Ndlovu
