As global leaders convene for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York this September, African philanthropist and business leader Tony Elumelu will bring Africa’s transformative economic growth, youth employment, and energy transition to the forefront of discussions. Elumelu, known for his role in reshaping Africa’s business landscape, aims to drive urgent action on these critical issues through a series of high-profile engagements at UNGA.
Elumelu’s agenda includes a roundtable discussion at the Clinton Global Initiative alongside former U.S. President Bill Clinton, and an event co-hosted by the World Food Programme (WFP) and the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), with WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain. Drawing from his extensive experience as Chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group and Founder of Heirs Holdings and the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Elumelu will advocate for sustainable solutions rooted in African ingenuity.
A Call for Urgent Action
With Africa facing significant challenges, including youth unemployment, lack of access to electricity, and the impacts of climate change, Elumelu will emphasize the need for immediate action. He believes Africa holds immense potential for transformative growth, but it requires bold leadership and strategic investments. As a strong proponent of “Africapitalism”—an economic philosophy that urges the private sector to drive social and economic wealth across the continent—Elumelu will push for African solutions to African problems.
Elumelu’s call to action is timely. Over 60% of Africans lack access to electricity, and the continent’s youth—who make up more than 60% of its 1.3 billion population—face significant barriers to employment. Compounding these challenges, Africa is on the frontlines of the climate crisis, with extreme weather events like recent floods in West Africa highlighting the urgent need for energy transition and climate resilience.
“Africa is suffering climate-driven environmental crises caused by global emissions, while our development is held back by huge infrastructure deficits,” Elumelu noted in a recent statement. He added, “Addressing sustainable economic growth, youth unemployment, gender inequality, and Africa’s energy transition is critical not only for meeting the continent’s basic needs but also for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and unlocking Africa’s immense economic potential.”
Shaping Africa’s Narrative on the Global Stage
As a leading voice for Africa’s economic transformation, Elumelu has successfully demonstrated the impact of empowering young Africans through entrepreneurship. The Tony Elumelu Foundation, which has supported over 18,000 entrepreneurs across the continent, serves as a model for how targeted investments can foster inclusive growth. The foundation’s success in promoting youth entrepreneurship has been recognized in case studies at prestigious institutions like Harvard, Stanford, and Cambridge, positioning it as a catalyst for Africa’s future.
Elumelu’s advocacy at UNGA will focus on reshaping how Africa is perceived globally—not as a continent beset by challenges, but as a land of unparalleled opportunities. “There is nowhere else in the world where you can reap the kind of investments as in Africa,” he emphasized. His message is clear: Africa’s success is critical to global stability, and investing in Africa is investing in a more prosperous future for all.
Highlighting Investment Opportunities
In addition to his engagements, Elumelu’s UBA Group will host a networking gala on the sidelines of UNGA. This event will showcase investment opportunities across Africa and celebrate UBA’s 75th anniversary and 40 years of operations in the United States. The gala will bring together prominent leaders from four continents, highlighting Africa’s vibrant and growing economic landscape.
Elumelu’s participation at UNGA underscores the importance of aligning Africa’s economic agenda with global goals. His thought leadership continues to challenge conventional views and inspire innovative strategies for collaboration and growth. As Elumelu advocates for Africa’s future, his message is clear: the continent’s transformative growth is not just an African priority—it is a global imperative. By investing in Africa’s youth, energy transition, and sustainable development, the world can help unlock the boundless potential that Africa offers.
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