Mohammed Bin Rashid Meets African Business Leaders To Discuss Investment And Cooperation Opportunities
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, recently engaged with a group of African business and philanthropic leaders visiting the UAE. The meeting was also attended by H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance.
The delegation comprised influential figures from Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Egypt, Sudan, and Zimbabwe. These leaders represent sectors such as energy, digital infrastructure, logistics, agriculture, and food systems. Their companies and foundations significantly contribute to national GDPs and employment across Africa.
During the meeting at Address Creek Harbour Hotel in Dubai, discussions focused on expanding joint investments and cooperation in conventional and renewable energy. Digital infrastructure, supply chains, transport, agriculture, and food were also key topics. The role of community initiatives in enhancing the developmental impact of commercial investments was highlighted.
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid emphasised the importance of partnerships for progress. "The UAE and Dubai believe deeply in the power of partnership to accelerate progress," he stated. He noted that the UAE's historical ties with Africa form a foundation for future collaboration aimed at innovation and economic resilience.
The UAE has invested over US$110 billion in Africa between 2019 and 2023. This includes more than US$70 billion in renewable energy projects. Additionally, the UAE launched a US$1 billion 'AI for Development' initiative to support artificial intelligence projects across Africa.
Badr Jafar, Special Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Business and Philanthropy and host of the delegation said: "This visit brings together leaders whose decisions shape economic and social outcomes across the continent." He stressed that collaboration among business, government, and philanthropy unlocks solutions for resilience and prosperity.
Future Collaborations
The delegation's visit aims to deepen cooperation across key sectors through high-level engagements with UAE officials. Discussions are exploring regulatory enablers and long-term co-investment opportunities connecting public, private, and philanthropic sectors.
The meeting reflects growing momentum in UAE-Africa relations. The UAE is one of Africa’s most active foreign investors. These engagements are expected to inform future collaborations while strengthening ties between the regions.
The meeting was attended by notable figures including H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum; Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi; Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem; Abdulla Balalaa; and Helal Saeed Almarri. Their presence underscores the significance of these discussions for both regions.
With inputs from WAM
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