As countries turn the corner on COVID-19 daily confirmed cases and death rates, the need for strategic re-opening of economic activities become imminent. This opinion paper, based on policy dialogues held under the auspices of the African Development Institute’s Global Community of Practice (G-CoP) established to harness and synthesize knowledge and experiences globally to inform policy responses to COVID-19 pandemic in Africa, argues that COVID-19 presents a unique opportunity for Africa to re-think its development policies. It presents policy options to help African countries to build back better - more inclusive, equitable and sustainable economies post-COVID-19.  Countries are encouraged to follow the science and prioritize polices that deliver mutual benefits and co-benefits for social, economic, and environmental resilience – building back better.