Keypoints:
- Africa launches AI factories and digital deals
- Local savings channelled into long-term growth
- Healthcare and creative sectors gain investment boost
AFRICA’S ambition to lead in global innovation was on full display in New York last week, as business leaders, policymakers, and investors unveiled multi-billion-dollar partnerships at GABI 2025: Unstoppable Africa. The flagship forum of the UN Global Compact, held with the African Union, underscored Africa’s determination to shape future markets rather than remain on the sidelines.
The two-day event, staged on the margins of the UN General Assembly, was co-hosted by UN Secretary-General António Guterres and African Union Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf. Heads of state, CEOs, investors, and cultural icons gathered in one of the largest African business forums ever staged outside the continent.
‘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,’ said Guterres. ‘Our challenge is to turn these possibilities into sustainable prosperity, in line with the SDGs, Agenda 2063, and the Pact for the Future.’
UN Global Compact chief executive Sanda Ojiambo stressed that the forum must not be about words alone. ‘GABI should be the platform where Africa’s investability and bankability are consistently demonstrated,’ she said.
AI factories set for Africa
A headline announcement came from Zimbabwean entrepreneur Strive Masiyiwa, founder of Econet Global and Cassava Technologies, who unveiled plans for Africa’s first network of artificial intelligence factories.
The facilities, powered by NVIDIA’s high-performance chips, are scheduled to be operational by 2026. Masiyiwa said the project, called StriveAI, would allow Africa to design its own AI tools.
‘We can address our most pressing challenges — from agriculture and health to education and climate — on our own terms,’ he told the gathering.
Meta also confirmed new digital investments, with its Vice-President for Africa, the Middle East and Türkiye, Kojo Boakye, highlighting opportunities in connectivity, skills, and AI applications.
Local savings for growth
In finance, the Africa Finance Corporation launched the Africa Savings for Growth initiative with pension and social security partners. The move aims to unlock part of the continent’s $1.17tn in institutional savings, much of which is currently in low-yield assets, and direct it into long-term development.
‘Africa’s savings should work for Africa,’ said AFC President Samaila Zubairu. ‘By mobilising local capital, we can drive growth without overreliance on external financing.’
Pathways for healthcare and digital future
Delegates also announced two new ‘action pathways’. The Healthcare Action Pathway will use digital tools to expand access to medical services, improve supply chains, and attract investment in health systems.
The Digital Transformation Action Pathway will focus on scaling up internet access, modernising government services, and helping small businesses adopt new technologies.
Sports, music, and fashion were also celebrated as growth industries, with discussions on how football, athletics, and e-sports can generate jobs and investment while African creatives continue to influence global culture.
A confident message
UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed closed the event by stressing Africa’s agency in global affairs. ‘Unstoppable Africa is a space to remind ourselves that this is our narrative, on our terms, as we go forth,’ she said.
With major commitments secured in AI, finance, healthcare, and culture, the forum’s message was clear: Africa is investing in itself, shaping its future, and positioning as a driver of the global economy.
