Abu dhabi: A distinguished delegation of African business and philanthropic leaders gathered in the UAE to strengthen cooperation across investment, trade, innovation, and philanthropy. This event comes amidst growing UAE-Africa economic ties and increased investment flows.
According to Emirates News Agency, the delegation included 13 prominent figures from Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Egypt, Sudan, and Zimbabwe. These leaders represent sectors such as energy, digital infrastructure, transport, logistics, agriculture, and food systems. Their industries drive national GDP and create employment across Africa, highlighting a mutual interest in co-investment and collaboration.
The delegation participated in a high-level UAE-Africa roundtable with senior UAE officials from various ministries and national entities. Discussions covered long-term investment horizons, regulatory enablers, and partnership opportunities across priority sectors, emphasizing a commitment to strengthening UAE-Africa collaboration.
Additionally, the delegation visited Al Shindagha Museum to explore opportunities in culture, creative industries, and community development. In Abu Dhabi, discussions with senior leadership focused on advancing diplomatic, commercial, and philanthropic ties, with shared priorities including youth empowerment, education, digital transformation, AI advancement, cultural exchange, and healthcare access.
As part of the UAE programme, the delegation attended a session under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' 'Voices of Influence' initiative featuring Bill Gates. This visit coincides with significant momentum in UAE-Africa relations, with the UAE investing over USD 110 billion in Africa from 2019 to 2023, and launching the USD 1 billion 'AI for Development' initiative at the G20 summit in South Africa.
Philanthropy was a focal point during the visit, with delegates emphasizing community-based initiatives to enhance social foundations and the developmental impact of commercial investments. The catalytic role of philanthropic capital in education, health, youth empowerment, and community resilience was highlighted.
The delegation's wider programme in the UAE includes sector-specific engagements and strategic dialogues to explore new business and philanthropic partnership models. These exchanges are expected to enhance future bilateral and multilateral cooperation between the UAE and African countries, marking a milestone in a partnership focused on stability, sustainable growth, and mutual collaboration.
The delegation included notable figures such as Abdul Samad Rabiu, Aliko Dangote, Dr. Elizabeth Jack-Rich Tein, Humphrey Kariuki, Johann Rupert, Mohammad Dewji, Sir Mo Ibrahim, Naguib Sawiris, Dr. Patrice Motsepe, Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe, Strive Masiyiwa, Tsitsi Masiyiwa, and Tony Elumelu.