The Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI) has once again ignited a powerful dialogue on Africa’s economic landscape with the release of its Unstoppable Africa 2024 Executive Summary. This report underscores the urgent need for an inclusive financial model that addresses Africa’s unique challenges, leveraging concessional financing, private sector investment, and domestic resource mobilization to unlock the continent’s full potential.
A key takeaway from the report is the necessity for African institutions to lead in shifting global risk perceptions and championing innovative financial solutions that will de-risk projects and attract long-term investments. The message is clear: Africa must own its economic narrative.
Now in its third year, GABI’s annual flagship event, Unstoppable Africa, has become a cornerstone gathering during the high-level opening week of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The event has cemented its status as the premier Africa-focused platform, bringing together global leaders to discuss transformative strategies.
“The GABI 2024 Executive Summary captures the groundbreaking discussions and solutions that emerged during the Unstoppable Africa event,” said Sanda Ojiambo, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and CEO of the UN Global Compact. “This report is not just a reflection of progress but a rallying cry for continued collaboration and ambition.”
The Unstoppable Africa 2024 event, held on September 25-26, attracted over 4,000 participants, including six Heads of State and Government, 14 Government Ministers, and influential figures from business, sports, music, and creative industries.
Read also: Highlights from the Economic Report on Africa 2024
Key Findings
The report highlights Africa’s journey across multiple sectors:
Energy access and transition: The Mission 300 initiative aims to provide clean energy access to 300 million Africans by 2030. Success stories from Togo, Mauritania, and Ghana showcase the expansion of distributed renewable energy solutions, particularly mini-grids for rural and underserved areas.
Digital transformation: Africa’s digital revolution is accelerating, driven by rapid technological adoption and a youthful population. Initiatives like Itana, Africa’s first Digital Economic Zone, are enabling businesses to incorporate online and tap into the continent’s talent pool.
Creative industries: The fashion, film, music, and entertainment sectors are pivotal economic drivers, fostering job creation, boosting tourism, and elevating Africa’s global influence.
Sports: Investment in modern infrastructure and continental leagues is essential for economic growth and social cohesion. The report highlights initiatives like the Queens of the Continent Foundation and the NBA Africa Startup Accelerator Award that are creating opportunities for young athletes and entrepreneurs.
A Roadmap to 2025 and and beyond
GABI is set to host the 4th edition of Unstoppable Africa on September 21-22, 2025, in New York. This gathering will once again convene key stakeholders to develop actionable frameworks for Africa’s continued progress.
Beyond the flagship event, GABI will organize GABI Bridges throughout the year, including a high-profile session at the Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, on May 12-13. These engagements will provide targeted discussions on pressing issues leading up to Unstoppable Africa 2025.
Africa stands at a defining moment, and the world is watching. The message from GABI is unmistakable: by embracing innovation, collaboration, and homegrown solutions, Africa’s economic transformation is not just possible—it is unstoppable.
