Unstoppable Africa 2025 Positions Continent as Global Growth Engine

NEW YORK, September 22, 2025 – Africa’s economic ambitions took center stage in Times Square as heads of state, CEOs, and global investors gathered for Unstoppable Africa 2025, the flagship forum of the Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI). Hosted at the Marriott Marquis ahead of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, the event underscored Africa’s role as a driver of global growth across energy, critical minerals, healthcare, education, and the creative industries.

The forum was convened by UN Secretary‑General António Guterres and H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, with CNN’s Larry Madowo and Al Jazeera’s Folly Bah Thibault returning as moderators.

Africa at the Center of Global Opportunity

In his opening remarks, Secretary‑General Guterres highlighted Africa’s growing influence at a time of global disruption and opportunity:

“Africa is home to the world’s youngest population, has vast energy resources, and extraordinary creativity across sectors – from fintech and agribusiness to fashion and artificial intelligence. Our challenge and responsibility is to turn these extraordinary possibilities into sustainable prosperity, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals, Agenda 2063, and the Pact for the Future.”

Ms. Sanda Ojiambo, Assistant Secretary‑General and CEO of the UN Global Compact, reinforced the shift in narrative:

“The time has come to embrace a new narrative for Africa. We are moving from doing business in Africa to doing business with Africa.”

Private Sector Leadership

A closed‑door session brought together the UN Secretary‑General, African Union leadership, President João Lourenço of Angola, Strive Masiyiwa, and 14 CEOs representing companies across 16 African countries with a combined revenue of US$22 billion. The group called on governments to improve the business environment through policies that support industrial growth, regional trade, and long‑term investment.

Strive Masiyiwa, Founder and Executive Chairman of ECONET Global and Cassava Technologies, noted:

“Unstoppable Africa has become a powerful platform for African and global leaders, and the world’s biggest companies to engage with Africa.

Key Themes and Announcements

• Energy & Electrification: Leaders announced plans to mobilize over US$50 billion in affordable finance to accelerate access to reliable power under Mission 300. By week’s end, 32 nations are expected to sign new energy agreements.
• Trade & Infrastructure: President João Lourenço highlighted the Lobito Corridor as a transformative project linking the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, boosting regional trade and industrial growth. Botswana’s President Duma Boko called for harmonized laws and stronger public‑private partnerships to unlock cross‑border commerce.
• Critical Minerals: With over one‑third of global reserves, Africa’s role in supplying minerals for the energy transition was a central focus. Botswana’s Minister of Minerals and Energy, Hon. Bogolo Kenewendo, outlined plans for local processing hubs to retain more value on the continent.
• Finance & Investment: Alain Ebobissé, CEO of Africa50, urged African institutional investors to increase infrastructure allocations from 3% to 5%, which could significantly close the continent’s funding gap.
• Creative & Sports Industries: Panels emphasized Africa’s cultural and creative sectors as engines of soft power and economic growth.

Global Trade Outlook

World Trade Organization Director‑General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo‑Iweala stressed Africa’s opportunity to benefit from shifting global supply chains:

“With rising protectionism and supply chain diversification, Africa stands out as a destination for growth. From textiles to green energy minerals, local processing can anchor Africa in the global economy.”

Looking Ahead

Day Two of Unstoppable Africa 2025 will continue with sessions on digital innovation, food systems, and investment opportunities across the continent.

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Source: APO Group on behalf of Global Africa Business Initiative