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.
“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
Beyond handouts: Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli on Africa’s opportunity-driven future
The ONE Campaign CEO argues that Africa's 2.5 billion population by 2050 demands partnership-based engagement to power global growth, not charity.
September 2025
‘Capital with context’: Kola Aina on why Africa needs local capital to complement foreign investors
The Ventures Platform founder explains the unique value local fund managers & angel investors bring to Africa's innovation ecosystem — and why it's not a zero-sum game.
September 2025
From ‘made from Africa’ to ‘made in Africa’: Gagan Gupta on building Africa’s industrial sovereignty
ARISE IIP's founder is creating industrial ecosystems across the African continent to transform raw materials locally and reclaim billions in economic value.
September 2025
“Africans must not fear Africa”: Mo Ibrahim’s call for self-investment
Having sold Celtel for $3.4 billion when few believed in Africa’s promise, the Mo Ibrahim Foundation chair now urges African investors & institutions to bet on the continent, not abroad.
September 2025
Africa is repeating colonial patterns in the digital age: Kenya’s tech envoy on breaking the cycle
Having stepped out of the slums of Nairobi into global influence, Ambassador Philip Thigo warns that Africa has little time to claim technological sovereignty before it's too late.
August 2025