2025 Overview

Africa is at an inflection point, poised to redefine its role in the global economy. With 60% of the world’s most promising solar resources and vast deposits of critical minerals, the continent holds the keys to powering the global energy transition. At the same time, Africa has a chance to redefine its role in the global value chains by transitioning from a raw material exporter to a hub of green manufacturing, innovation, and trade.

Under the theme, ‘Harnessing Natural Capital for Growth’, The Africa Debate 2025 brought together policymakers, investors, and industry leaders to explore how the continent can leverage its natural capital to build competitive industries, scale advanced manufacturing, and strengthen regional supply chains. Discussions focused on the role of infrastructure, investment, and policy to unlock Africa’s industrial potential and drive long-term, climate-positive growth.

2025 Highlights

Who Joined the Event

The Africa Debate brought together an exclusive network of 700+ investors, policymakers, and corporate leaders from government agencies, commercial banks, private equity funds, sovereign wealth funds, and top companies across energy, oil & gas, technology, infrastructure, mining, agriculture, logistics, and beyond.

What participants experienced:

Engaged directly with the key players and businesses shaping Africa’s investment landscape.
Gained cutting-edge insights into the future of business and investment across the continent.
Connected with high-level delegates and influential speakers.
Shared expertise, perspectives, and experiences with investors and industry pioneers.

The conversations that we are having at The Africa Debate today are the conversations we at Afreximbank have been trying to push forward. The issue of using the capital under the ground to form the capital that is usable.”

Prof. Benedict Oramah, Former President & Chairman of the Board of Directors, Afreximbank

“The Africa Debate is a fantastic platform. From what I’ve seen today, the depth of engagement is rich, the quality of attendance is world class. More importantly, world class not only because you’re attracting people from Africa, but you are attracting participants in the Africa story.”

Dalu Ajene, Chief Executive Officer, Standard Chartered Nigeria

“These events are where the seeds are planted and where ideas for new innovative approaches to challenges and opportunities comes out of the coffee breaks and are inspired during the sessions.”

Mary Peschka, Regional Director for Eastern Africa, International Finance Corporation