Spotlight: Ideas That Matter

The frameworks, theories, and big thinking that are shaping Africa’s future. We break down the ideas of leading thinkers, economists, entrepreneurs, and visionaries to help you understand the concepts driving change across the continent. From economic philosophy to business strategy, these are the intellectual blueprints worth understanding.

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“Currency devaluation is a feature, not a bug”: Idris Ayo Bello on navigating Africa’s currency chaos

While many investors flee Africa's currency volatility, one early backer of Flutterwave, Andela, and Wave has turned forex fluctuations into a competitive advantage.

October 2025
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Foreign capital follows, Africa must lead: Yemi Keri on why African business angels must invest first

The President of the African Business Angel Network argues that Flutterwave, Paystack, and Moniepoint prove local angel investors create the pipeline global VCs rely on.

October 2025
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“Weaponize your people”: Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede’s direct challenge to African governments

The distinguished banker and investor argues Africa's greatest competitive advantage isn't minerals or oil — it's human capital that governments must strategically deploy.

October 2025
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“Financing women isn’t charity”: Dr. Maxime Houinato on why gender inclusion is good business

Africa has the world's highest rate of women entrepreneurs, and they reinvest at 2.5x the rate of men. The UN Women Director argues the financing gap is economically irrational.

October 2025
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“All innovation was born here”: Dina Sherif on why Africa must reclaim its heritage to unlock prosperity

The MIT executive argues that owning Africa's innovation narrative will change how Africans invest in themselves, creating self-sustaining prosperity at home.

September 2025
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“Africans must fund Africa”: Fadilah Tchoumba on mobilizing local capital for future growth

The CEO of the African Business Angel Network reveals how local investors are building resilient ecosystems to withstand market shocks and fuel continental growth.

September 2025