A Forum for Civil Society organized during the African Development Bank's Annual Meetings in Arusha ended on Friday with the endorsement of three key areas of collaboration identified during their discussions.

Firstly, there is a significant mutual interest in working on common development objectives.

Secondly, the strengthened engagement with Civil Society Organizations will require a paradigm shift in the way the Bank has been working with Civil Society.

Thirdly, the discussions highlighted the diverse opportunities offered by the green economy for reducing unemployment, notably as it pertains to youth un-employment, through innovative activities.

"The constructive suggestions made by the CSOs on topics ranging from the Banks Long Term Strategy to our engagement in the Rio+20 negotiations and the pertinent views on Africa challenges and opportunities in the green economy, holds promise for mutual interest engagement for a brighter future on the continent" says Ms. Ginette-Ursule Yoman, Manager, Gender and Social Development Monitoring Division.

The Forum concluded with discussions on the institutional framework for the Banks' engagement with Civil Society Organizations - a platform for dialogue with key partners.

The Forum for Civil Society Organizations, with more than 60 representatives from regional networks and reputable institutions, demonstrated a unique commitment from CSOs working on the continent.

In conclusion, AfDB President, Donald Kaberuka, while receiving the CSO delegation in Arusha on Friday, said the Bank will organize a special forum with civil societies to continue the discussion on key African challenges and how the two sides can work together to improve living conditions on the continent.