UAE Hosts Delegation Of Africa’s Leading Business And Philanthropic Figures To Strengthen Strategic Partnerships

A group of prominent African business and philanthropic leaders recently gathered in the UAE to strengthen ties in investment, trade, innovation, and philanthropy. This delegation included 13 influential figures from Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Egypt, Sudan, and Zimbabwe. They represent key sectors such as energy, digital infrastructure, transport, logistics, agriculture, and food systems.

During their visit, the delegation engaged in a high-level UAE–Africa roundtable with senior UAE officials from various ministries. The discussions focused on long-term investment strategies and practical partnership opportunities in priority sectors. This reflects a mutual commitment to enhancing UAE–Africa collaboration.

The UAE has emerged as a significant investor in Africa, deploying over USD 110 billion between 2019 and 2023. More than USD 70 billion was invested in renewable energy and green infrastructure. At the G20 summit in South Africa, the UAE launched a USD 1 billion 'AI for Development' initiative to support AI projects across African countries.

Philanthropy was a key aspect of the visit. Delegates highlighted community-based initiatives' role in strengthening social foundations and enhancing commercial investment's developmental impact. Philanthropic capital plays a crucial role in education, health, youth empowerment, and community resilience.

The delegation also visited Al Shindagha Museum to explore collaboration opportunities related to culture and creative industries. In Abu Dhabi, they met with senior leadership to discuss advancing diplomatic and commercial ties with African nations. These meetings emphasised shared priorities like youth empowerment and digital transformation.

The broader programme included sector-specific engagements aimed at strengthening coordinated action across business and philanthropy. These exchanges are expected to enhance future bilateral cooperation between the UAE and African countries.

Notable Delegates

The delegation featured notable figures such as Abdul Samad Rabiu of BUA Group; Aliko Dangote of Dangote Group; Dr. Elizabeth Jack-Rich Tein of Elin Group; Humphrey Kariuki of Janus Continental Group; Johann Rupert of Richemont & Remgro; Mohammad Dewji of MeTL Group; Sir Mo Ibrahim of Celtel International; Naguib Sawiris of Orascom Investment Holding; Dr. Patrice Motsepe of African Rainbow Minerals; Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe of African Fashion International; Strive Masiyiwa of Econet Global & Cassava Technologies; Tsitsi Masiyiwa of Delta Philanthropies; Tony Elumelu of Heirs Holdings & Transcorp.

An important dimension was the focus on philanthropy's role in reinforcing economic partnerships. Stakeholders emphasised philanthropic capital's catalytic role in education and health sectors that complement broader economic collaborations.

The visit coincided with significant momentum in UAE–Africa relations. The "Voices of Influence" session under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs featured Bill Gates discussing topics relevant to both regions.

This gathering marks an important milestone in evolving partnerships grounded in long-term stability and sustainable growth between the UAE and participating African countries.

With inputs from WAM