Over 2,000 African and international CEOs, investors and public sector leaders are expected to gather in Kigali, Rwanda in May to discuss the future of the African continent in light of global geopolitical tensions.
In a statement on Wednesday, the forum revealed that global crises have brought Africa to a critical crossroads where it must determine its future or find itself at the mercy of other global players.
Topic “On the table or on the menu?” A critical moment to shape a new future for Africa”, this year’s forum is scheduled to address four agendas including leadership, digital transformation, continental integration and finance.
The forum is co-organized by the International Finance Corporation, a member of the World Bank Group.
“Through a series of discussions, workshops and roundtables, participants will explore strategies for achieving the highest standards of public policy that are conducive to growth. to ensure African businesses are at the forefront of disruptive innovation and leverage Africa’s collective weight through the African Continental Free Trade Area,” the statement said.
Participants will also explore ways to creatively overcome barriers to financing Africa’s ambitions.
“Designed to spur actionable solutions, the summit will accelerate the rise of new African success stories,” he added.
Africa CEO Forum President Amir Ben Yahmed said: “We call on our community of leaders shaping Africa’s future to recognize the structural and lasting consequences of the actions they are taking at this critical time. The forum will be a melting pot for innovative strategies and partnerships, propelling the continent into the opportunities of tomorrow.”
IFC’s Vice President for Africa, Sérgio Pimenta, added: “Transforming Africa’s $3 trillion GDP to $30 trillion by 2050 will require an unbridled African private sector, which the continent’s policymakers can forge partnerships that create markets, increase intra-African trade and promote investment. on the continent”.
Confirmed participants at the forum include the Secretary General of the African Continental Free Trade Area, Wamkele Mene. IFC CEO Makhtar Diop; Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mesfin Tassew, among others.