Unstoppable Africa: GABI Summit Highlights Bold Partnerships and Ambitious Visions for Africa’s Future

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World leaders across sectors convened in New York for the third annual “Unstoppable Africa” event, organized by the Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI). This summit aims to establish Africa as a prime hub for business, trade, and investment.

A Platform for Growth: Agenda 2063 in Focus

With the theme “Unstoppable Africa: Shaping Global Ambitions for Agenda 2063,” the event emphasizes inclusive participation, impactful discussions, and actionable outcomes. Taking place alongside the United Nations General Assembly, the two-day summit is co-hosted by UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed and African Union Chairperson H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, facilitated by the UN Global Compact. It offers a vital platform for collaboration among global leaders, including Heads of State, CEOs, investors, and industry specialists.

Influential Voices Champion Africa’s Role in Global Development

The opening session featured key leaders like H.E. Andrzej Duda, President of Poland; Julie Monaco of Citi; Prof. Benedict O. Oramah of Afreximbank; WNBA star Chiney Ogwumike; Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Chido Mpemba, AU Youth Envoy; and Makhtar Diop of the IFC, underscoring Africa’s pivotal role in building a prosperous and sustainable global future.

In his keynote address, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the need for strengthening global partnerships to drive African and worldwide progress, calling for unified efforts in renewable energy, education, and digital transformation.

A Unified Africa Strengthens Global Governance

Deputy Secretary-General Mohammed praised Africa’s emerging economic leadership, especially as the AU joins the G20, enhancing Africa’s voice in global governance and integrating the continent’s priorities into decisions that promote equity and sustainability.

Youth, Trade, and Technology at the Heart of Africa’s Future

In the session “The ‘Africa Youth Fix’ for a World in Crisis,” panelists discussed Africa’s young, dynamic population and the critical role they play in technology, energy, trade, and creative industries. Alhaji Aliko Dangote highlighted the urgent need to reduce barriers to the free movement of goods and people to accelerate trade across Africa.

During the “Unstoppable Africans” segment, Faouzi Annajah, Co-Founder of NamX, shared his ambition to launch Africa’s first hydrogen-powered SUV by 2027, showcasing innovation in sustainable transport.

Microsoft’s AI Vision for Africa

Brad Smith, Microsoft Vice Chair, outlined the company’s commitment to developing AI infrastructure for Africa, aiming to build advanced platforms that will propel the continent’s technological capabilities.

Championing Gender Equity Through Sport

WNBA All-Star Chiney Ogwumike announced her new foundation, Queens of the Continent, alongside Masai Ujiri, President of the Toronto Raptors. The foundation seeks to uplift African women and girls through sports, promoting gender equity and expanded opportunities.

Day 2 to Unveil Major Commitments

As GABI’s Unstoppable Africa event moves into its second day, stakeholders will finalize concrete commitments to boost Africa’s growth. Discussions will focus on critical trade, energy partnerships, and addressing climate challenges, solidifying Africa’s influence as an unstoppable force in the global economy.

Source: gabi.unglobalcompact.org