Introduction

The importance of effective resource mobilization strategies to achieve the sustainable development goals (SDGs), more than six years into Agenda 2030, lies at the heart of contemporary African economic development narratives. Domestic resource mobilization faced unprecedented pressures from lockdowns and other restrictive measures. The dual impact of pandemic-related financing and falling government revenue has led to diminished fiscal spaces in many African countries. Lessons from past crises show that African policymakers can weather the storm and rebuild more resilient economies across the continent. The chapter argues that current levels of bilateral and multilateral financing are insufficient to address Africa’s financing needs. It concludes with a series of measures tailored to country-specific vulnerabilities – such as crowding in private finance, blending private and public financing, improved domestic resource mobilization, and domestic policy reforms – to enhance development financing for both low-income and vulnerable middle-income African countries.