‘Unstoppable Africa 2025’ Puts Continent at the Centre of Global Growth
Africa took centre stage in Times Square, New York, today as heads of state, business leaders, investors, and policymakers gathered for Unstoppable Africa 2025, the flagship forum of the Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI). The event marked a decisive shift in the global conversation, from doing business in Africa to doing business with Africa.
Hosted at the Marriott Marquis ahead of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, the forum was opened by UN Secretary-General António Guterres and H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission. CNN’s Larry Madowo and Al Jazeera’s Folly Bah Thibault served as moderators.
In his opening remarks, Mr Guterres highlighted Africa’s growing global influence: “Africa stands at the centre of opportunity. With the world’s youngest population, vast energy resources, and extraordinary creativity across sectors, from fintech and agribusiness to fashion and artificial intelligence, Africa can transform these possibilities into sustainable prosperity.”
Ms Sanda Ojiambo, Assistant Secretary-General and CEO of the UN Global Compact, added: “We are shifting from doing business in Africa to doing business with Africa. GABI continues to convene African organisations and global partners to maintain this momentum.”
The forum focused on key sectors driving Africa’s growth, including energy, critical minerals, healthcare, education, and the creative industries. Discussions emphasised sustainable development aligned with Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Highlights included a closed-door meeting between Mr Guterres, H.E. João Lourenço, President of Angola, Strive Masiyiwa, and other African business leaders. CEOs representing 16 African countries with a combined revenue of US$22 billion urged governments to improve the business environment, support regional trade, and attract long-term investment.
H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf described Unstoppable Africa as more than a slogan: “It recognises our potential and the determination to act to transform the daily lives of African citizens through shared values, equitable partnerships, and sustainable development.”
Panels also examined Africa’s strategic role in global supply chains for critical minerals, the energy transition, and local value addition. Hon. Bogolo Kenewendo, Botswana’s Minister of Minerals and Energy, outlined plans to develop domestic processing hubs, while Dr Rajiv Shah, President of the Rockefeller Foundation, noted that African leaders aim to mobilise over US$50 billion in affordable finance to accelerate electrification under Mission 300.
Other sessions explored trade, digital innovation, food systems, and investment opportunities. Participants emphasised harmonised regulations, faster approvals, and stronger public-private partnerships to unlock Africa’s full economic potential.
Day Two of Unstoppable Africa 2025 will continue with discussions on trade, investment, and sustainable development across the continent.
For event highlights and speaker sessions, visit the Unstoppable Africa YouTube channel.
