Tony O. Elumelu CFR, Group Chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) and Founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, is currently undertaking a high-impact working tour across East, Central, and Southern Africa. As a leading advocate for Africapitalism—the philosophy that the private sector must play a leading role in the continent's social and economic development—Elumelu's multi-country visit underscores UBA’s unwavering commitment to fostering economic resilience, empowering entrepreneurs, and unlocking investment opportunities to propel Africa’s sustainable growth.
The tour, a strategic outreach at a pivotal moment for the continent, will span key nations, including Kenya, Republic of Congo (Brazzaville), Uganda, Zambia, Mozambique, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Harnessing Africa's Demographic Dividend
Elumelu’s intensive itinerary is designed to facilitate high-level engagements with Presidents, policymakers, business leaders, and youth innovators in these countries. The central focus of these discussions is to forge collaborative strategies crucial for infrastructure financing, digital inclusion, and youth-led entrepreneurship.
These conversations aim to effectively harness Africa’s immense demographic dividend. With over 60% of its population under the age of 35, the continent is poised to be a global engine of innovation and prosperity, provided the right foundations are established.
“Africa’s story is one of immense potential, and it is time we take ownership of it,” remarked Tony Elumelu. “Through this tour, UBA is not just visiting these vibrant nations; we are igniting partnerships that will drive real impact. We must build resilient foundations together. This means empowering our entrepreneurs, bridging infrastructure gaps, and creating shared prosperity for generations to come.”
Banking on Africa's Future
This strategic tour further builds upon UBA’s distinguished legacy as Africa’s Global Bank. A recent milestone reinforcing this commitment was the launch of UBA’s White Paper, Banking on Africa’s Future: Unlocking Capital and Partnerships for Sustainable Growth. The paper notably calls for increased foreign direct investment in green assets and human capital development.
The Bank's outreach aligns with robust economic projections for the continent. Africa’s GDP is projected to reach an impressive $2.6 trillion by 2030, a surge driven by rapidly expanding sectors such as telecommunications, education technology, and consumer goods. By strengthening ties with continental and global partners, UBA aims to facilitate $50 billion in trade and investment flows over the next five years, connecting businesses and investors to transformative opportunities across the continent.
United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA) operates across 20 African countries and in global markets including the USA, UK, France, and UAE. Through its commitment to Africapitalism, UBA remains dedicated to driving innovation in digital banking, sustainable finance, and inclusive growth to empower Africa’s future.