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.
“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
“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
“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