ABIDJAN, July 24 -- AFRICAN Union (AU) member states are pushing to turn Africas vast natural wealth into industrial growth, stronger trade and sustainable economic prosperity.

The agenda is taking centre stage at a key African Union (AU) meeting that opened here on Friday, bringing together finance, trade and industry ministers and senior experts from across the continent.

The meeting is focusing on how African countries can add value to their raw materials, strengthen regional value chains and create a business environment that attracts long-term, productive investment.

Tanzania is represented by Deputy Minister for Finance, Engineer Mshamu Ali Munde, on behalf of the Minister for Finance, Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar, who is leading...