Promoting Peace in Africa – Tony O. Elumelu
Insecurity and insurgency undermine Africa’s economic development.
When people fear for their lives, when they cannot plan for their futures, when they cannot move freely or safely, or protect their goods, they cannot be entrepreneurs. All the issues associated with insecurity, such as food security, migration, and inadequate infrastructure, stifle our continent’s progress and pose global threats.
To accelerate Africa’s transformation, we must empower our youth and establish the conducive business environment, that allows our young to unleash their creative potential. Without these foundations, we will fail to achieve the vision of a truly successful Africa.
At Heirs Holdings, we have consistently been at the forefront of Africa’s transformation. This is why my advocacy last month, focused on peace and security across the continent.
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I joined other leaders at the African Union’s high-level meetings to address these urgent issues. It was an honor to engage with leaders who share our common vision for Africa, including Ghana’s President, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, African Development Bank (AfDB) President Prof. Akinwumi A. Adesina, Afrexim Bank President and Board Chair Prof. Benedict Oramah, and AU Commission Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat. Our gathering emphasised the critical importance of peace and stability in achieving our shared vision of economic empowerment for the continent.
While we commend the progress made through the Africa Peace Fund, building lasting peace is our collective responsibility. The stability fostered by the Africa Peace Fund is essential for the prosperity of businesses and communities throughout Africa. I salute the leadership of the African Union and the Peace Fund Secretariat for their dedicated efforts in advancing this vital cause.
At Heirs Holdings, our commitment to transforming Africa is unwavering.
Our Africapitalism philosophy demonstrates our dedication to creating a lasting impact and driving economic growth across the continent. We do this in many ways, let me highlight a few:
The United Bank for Africa (UBA), Africa’s Global Bank, operating in 20 countries and four continents, continues to lead in financial inclusion, innovating in banking and financial services, providing novel solutions and essential financial infrastructure that support millions of SMEs.
Through the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), we have empowered over 20,000 entrepreneurs and impacted 1.5 million individuals, giving access to training across all 54 African countries, nurturing a generation of entrepreneurs dedicated to the peace, stability, and prosperity of the continent.
Our businesses, Transcorp Group and Heirs Energies, are at the forefront of Nigeria’s energy sector, facilitating access to power and illuminating communities. These initiatives significantly contribute to Nigeria’s economic prosperity and stability, we power schools, hospitals, homes and businesses.
However, we cannot achieve this alone.
Beyond discussions, we must forge collaborations between the private and public sectors to ensure security.
Together with governments, educators, and policymakers, we must create an environment where young people can thrive.
By investing in our youth and powering Africa’s economy, we lay the groundwork for lasting peace and prosperity.
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