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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“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
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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
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‘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