Africa Prosperity Network

Author: APN Communication Directorate

  • APD 2025 Compact calls for action at the 38th African Union Summit

    APD 2025 Compact calls for action at the 38th African Union Summit

    Addis Ababa, 17 February 2025 – The outcome document or Compact from the Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2025, held in Accra, Ghana, from Thursday 30 January to Saturday 1 February 2025, was distributed at the 38th African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, which took place from Saturday 15 to Sunday 16 February 2025.

    The 40-page Compact, which includes a transformative agenda to accelerate economic integration, advance strategic infrastructure development and unlock Africa’s full economic potential, was agreed through enthusiastic discussions. It renews the call for immediate action to advance Africa’s aspiration for a single market through the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA).

    The Dialogues brought together over 2,500 leaders from 47 countries across Africa and the Global African diaspora. The APD 2025 Compact is the overarching outcome of the Dialogues and encapsulates a fresh sense of commitment and cooperation among African leaders and global stakeholders.

    The APD2025 Compact

    The APD 2025 Compact is the outcome of the Africa Prosperity Dialogues 2025, which took place under the theme Delivering Africa’s Single Market Through Infrastructure: Invest. Connect. Integrate.

    Speaking to the press, Sidig El Toum, CEO of the Africa Prosperity Network (APN), declared: “This landmark document sets out a collective vision for Africa’s economic growth and prosperity, structured around five transformative pillars: financing for strategic infrastructure, transport and logistics integration, energy security and power integration, digital transformation and social infrastructure.”

    The Compact’s five pillars are as follows:

    • Transport and logistics integration

    This pillar emphasises the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and addresses the 30-40% cost premium currently weighing down intra-African trade. It advocates comprehensive air service liberalisation and the execution of Africa’s Integrated Maritime Strategy 2050.

    • Energy security and power integration

    This pillar addresses the widespread power reliability challenges affecting over 30 African nations by advocating interconnected power grids and harmonised regional energy policies. It highlights strategic, multibillion-dollar projects such as the Grand Inga Dam for hydropower and the exploration of solar energy potential in the Sahara and Kalahari Deserts.

    • Digital transformation

    Building on the AU Protocol on Digital Trade and the report Scaling Up Interoperability for Economic Integration: Using Mobile Money to Buy and Sell Across Africa, the APD 2025 Compact establishes a five-year roadmap for achieving Pan-African mobile system interoperability.

    It prioritises investments in broadband infrastructure, e-commerce platforms and unified regulatory frameworks to accelerate digital trade. The Compact calls on heads of state, policymakers, regulators and stakeholders to commit to:

    1. Ensuring all member states join the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) by 2027.
    2. Enhancing cross-platform integration using the Ghana interoperability model to ensure seamless transactions between mobile money accounts, banks and other payment channels by 2027.
    3. Enabling cross-border mobile money interoperability across all AU regional blocs and within every member state by 2030.
    • Health care and social infrastructure

    This pillar focuses on strengthening health-care systems through increased domestic pharmaceutical production and digital health solutions, including integrated mobile payment and insurance platforms. It also calls on governments to prioritise STEAM education to equip young Africans with entrepreneurial and employable skills to leverage AfCFTA opportunities.

    • A-Dollar-A-Day Infrastructure Fund

    The Compact introduces an innovative Integrated Africa Infrastructure Growth Fund, targeting the mobilisation of over $2 trillion in its first decade. This will be achieved by means of various strategies, including a retail-driven initiative encouraging contributions of one dollar a day.

    Targeted investors include Africa’s growing middle class (including the Global African diaspora), domestic capital markets, multilateral financial institutions, pension funds, insurance companies and sovereign wealth funds, supported by streamlined regulations and risk mitigation mechanisms.

    “If 100 million Pan-Africanists, including people of African descent and friends of Africa, commit to investing as little as $30 a month into a well-structured fund under the auspices of the AfDB and others, it could generate an additional $36.5 billion annually to finance the railways and roads that will comprehensively connect our continent from north to south and east to west,” said Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, founder and executive chairman of APN.

    APD 2025

    The APD is a call to action, mobilising leaders from both the private and public sectors to work collaboratively to drive economic growth, reduce poverty and improve the lives of African citizens. The recently concluded APD 2025 was a resounding success. The Dialogues addressed the continent’s critical challenges and industrialisation priorities, advancing commercial and infrastructural interventions to realise the vision of “The Africa We Want”.

    Day One (30 January): The event commenced with the opening of the Projet Afrique exhibition, APD Breakfast Meetings and the official opening ceremony, featuring international dignitaries. H.E. the Vice-President of the Republic of Ghana, Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, delivered the keynote address.

    Day Two (31 January): Critical discussions focused on sustainable energy solutions, digital infrastructure, manufacturing capacity, STEM education, health-care systems and sustainable urban development. Participants also engaged in an open forum on the APD 2025 theme, forming the foundation of the summit’s outcome document.

    Day Three (1 February): The final day featured the High-Level Heads of State and Business Leaders’ Dialogue, culminating in a Presidential Round-Table discussion of policy frameworks for private sector participation in Africa’s single market. Three heads of state took part. The day concluded with a signing ceremony marking the collaboration between the AfCFTA Secretariat and BADEA, followed by the Africa Prosperity Champions Awards (APCA) and the Presidential Gala Dinner.

    About APN

    The Africa Prosperity Network (APN) is a private, non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing the vision of “The Africa We Want”, as outlined in the African Union’s Agenda 2063. It promotes Africa’s progress, independent of external aid.

    The Africa Prosperity Dialogues series provides a strategic platform for leaders to move the continent’s economic integration agenda from ambition to tangible action, facilitating the implementation of AfCFTA initiatives and shaping the Africa Agenda for Action.

    Signed:

    Communication Directorate,
    Africa Prosperity Network

    For more details, visit: www.africaprosperitynetwork.com

    ENDS

    To all media houses

    APD 2025 Compact calls for action at the 38th African Union Summit

  • Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2025 Compact calls for Dollar-a-Day fund by Africans for infrastructure to connect Africa

    Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2025 Compact calls for Dollar-a-Day fund by Africans for infrastructure to connect Africa

    Accra, Ghana, 7 February 2025 – The Africa Prosperity Network (APN) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat today unveiled a groundbreaking Infrastructure Compact, marking a decisive step for Africans to take into their own hands the destiny of financing Africa’s all-important economic integration agenda.

    A highlight of the Compact is an ambitious initiative to mobilise a critical mass of Africans, targeting some 100 million people, to invest as little as US$1 a day into a special infrastructure fund, sponsored by the AfCFTA Secretariat. This fund will be dedicated to financing the building of major, connecting infrastructure projects – including energy, transport and digital – that are needed to facilitate the transformation and integration of the continent’s 55 economies into the world’s largest single market.

    The 2025 edition of the Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD), an AfCFTA-focused annual gathering of Africa’s decision-makers, was held from 30 January to 1 February at the Accra International Conference Centre, Accra, under the theme “Delivering Africa’s Single Market Through Infrastructure: Invest. Connect. Integrate.” The summit brought together prominent African leaders and policymakers to address critical infrastructure challenges facing the continent.

    The distinguished guests present included:

    • H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana (host country of the AfCFTA
      Secretariat and APN)
    • H.E. Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of the Republic of Togo
    • H.E. Azali Assoumani, President of the Union of Comoros
    • H.E. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Vice-President of the Republic of Ghana
    • H.E. Wamkele Keabetswe Mene, AfCFTA secretary general
    • Honourable Ibrahim Boughali, Speaker of the People’s National Assembly, Algeria
    • Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, APN Advisory Council chair
    • Dr Sidi Ould Tah, President of the Arab Bank for Economic Development
      in Africa (BADEA)
    • Mesfin Tasew Bekele, group CEO, Ethiopian Airlines Group

    The Infrastructure Compact outlines five transformative pillars for immediate implementation:

    1. Transport and logistics integration: The framework prioritises the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and addresses the 30-40% cost premium currently weighing down intra-African trade. It advocates comprehensive air service liberalisation and the execution of Africa’s Integrated Maritime Strategy 2050.
    1. Energy security and power integration: Responding to widespread challenges with reliable power, which affect over 30 African nations, the Compact emphasises developing interconnected power grids and harmonised regional energy policies, with a special focus on multibillion-dollar strategic projects such as the Grand Inga Dam for hydropower and exploration of using the Sahara and Kalahari Deserts for solar energy for Africa and beyond.
    • Digital transformation: Building on the AU Protocol on Digital Trade and the report Scaling Up Interoperability for Economic Integration: Using Mobile Money to Buy and Sell Across Africa, the APD 2025 Compact establishes a five-year roadmap for achieving Pan-African mobile system interoperability, prioritising investments in broadband infrastructure, e-commerce platforms and unified regulatory frameworks to accelerate digital trade. It further calls on heads of state and government, policymakers, regulators and all key stakeholders to commit extensively to achieving the following:
      • Bring all member states on board the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) by 2027;
      • Using the Ghana interoperability model, enhance cross-platform integration to ensure seamless transactions between mobile money accounts, banks and other payment channels by 2027;
      • Allow cross-border mobile money interoperability across all AU regional blocs and in every member state by 2030.
    1. Health care and social infrastructure: Comprehensive recommendations focus on strengthening health-care systems through increased domestic pharmaceutical production capacity and digital health solutions, including integrated mobile payment and insurance platforms. Further call on all governments to prioritise STEAM education to equip young Africans with both entrepreneurial and employable skills to take advantage of AfCFTA.
    • Strategic infrastructure financing: The Compact introduces an innovative Integrated Africa Infrastructure Growth Fund targeting in excess of $2 trillion in mobilisation over its first decade and using, among other tools, a retail drive seeking campaign: A-Dollar-A-Day. Targeted investors will include Africa’s growing pool of middle-class people (including Global Africans), estimated to be a population of over 400 million, domestic capital markets, multilateral financial institutions, pension funds, insurance companies and sovereign wealth funds, supported by streamlined regulations and risk mitigation mechanisms. “If 100 million Pan-Africanists, including people of African descent and friends of Africa, commit to investing as little as US$30 a month into a well-structured fund, under the auspices of the AfDB and others we have, that alone gives Africa $36.5 billion extra funds a year to help finance the railways and roads that will, within five years, comprehensively connect our continent from north to south and east to west,” says Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, the executive chairman of APN.

    Commitment to action: leaders push for implementation

    Emphasising the need for urgent action, President John Mahama declared: “The decisions we make at this conference must not end in resolutions alone. We must act with urgency, determination and a shared vision for prosperity. Let us rise to the occasion, break down the barriers that divide us and build a strong, self-reliant and globally competitive Africa.”

    Presidents Gnassingbé and Assoumani echoed this commitment, while AfCFTA Secretary General Wamkele Mene announced the AfCFTA Transit Guarantee Scheme, set to launch this year, as a key step in implementing the Compact’s recommendations.

    The summit culminated in the ceremonial lighting of the Africa Trade Torch (ATT), an Africa Business Council-led private sector initiative, symbolising the commitment to mainstream AfCFTA benefits across African communities, with particular emphasis on SMEs, women-led enterprises and youth engagement.

    Secretary General Wamkele Mene announced the imminent launch of the AfCFTA Transit Guarantee Scheme, demonstrating tangible progress towards implementing the Compact’s recommendations.

    Dr Dlamini-Zuma noted Ghana’s mobile payment ecosystem as a potential blueprint for continental digital financial integration.

    Sidig El Toum, APN’s chief executive officer, highlighted the annual Africa Prosperity Dialogues as a crucial occasion in uniting Africans around a shared vision, driving collaborative action and ensuring that our solutions are both practical and impactful.

    Towards a prosperous Africa: APN’s continued commitment

    As the organising body of APD, the Africa Prosperity Network (APN) remains steadfast in advancing the vision of the “Africa We Want”, in line with the AU Agenda 2063. Through platforms such as the Africa Prosperity Dialogues, APN is driving Africa’s progress through collaboration, innovation and self-reliance – ending dependence on external aid.

    The comprehensive framework emerged from the Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2025. The event attracted 5,000 participants from 46 countries, including African heads of state, industry leaders, CEOs, government ministers, policymakers, thought leaders and development partners. APN will hold a press conference on the sidelines of the 38th African Union (AU) Summit, which will convene on 15 and 16 February 2025 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, bringing together heads of state and government from all 55 AU member states, alongside leaders of international organisations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the private sector.

    Signed:

    Communication Directorate,
    Africa Prosperity Network

    For more details, visit: www.africaprosperitynetwork.com

    ENDS

    To all media houses

  • Exclusives: Winners of Africa Prosperity Champions Awards (APCA) 2025

    Exclusives: Winners of Africa Prosperity Champions Awards (APCA) 2025

    The Africa Prosperity Champions Awards (APCA) was established to honour and celebrate the outstanding achievements of distinguished Africans across various sectors. This prestigious awards scheme aligns with the Africa Prosperity Agenda, recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to the continent’s advancement and prosperity.

    The initiative acknowledges exceptional leaders and visionaries for their dedication, innovation and impact in driving forward the continent’s development.

    APCA 2025 Award Categories & Winners

    LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
    AWARD IN DIGITAL
    TECHNOLOGY IN AFRICA
    An individual who made a pioneering and transformative contribution to Africa’s digital technology sector. This posthumous award recognises groundbreaking innovation, entrepreneurship and leadership in advancing digital solutions that have shaped Africa’s technological landscape.

    Winner: Herman Chinery-Hesse, co-founder, theSOFTtribe (received by his children)

    WOMEN EMPOWERMENT AWARD
    An individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in advancing women’s economic empowerment. This award honours efforts in championing gender equality, fostering entrepreneurship and driving impactful policies that uplift women across Africa.

    Winner: Ms Bridgette Motsepe-Radebe, President, South African Mining Development Association

    EXCELLENCE IN PAN-AFRICAN MEDIA AWARD
    An individual who has contributed significantly to shaping Africa’s media landscape. This award recognises excellence in media leadership, fostering informed discourse and amplifying Africa’s narratives on the global stage.

    Winner: Dr Rakesh Wahi, co-founder, CNBC Africa, Forbes Africa, Transatlantic Academic Group and Curtin University

    LEADERSHIP IN CONNECTING AFRICA AWARD
    An individual who has played a pivotal role in enhancing Africa’s connectivity. This award acknowledges leadership in aviation, transport and infrastructure development that fosters economic integration and intra-African trade.

    Winner: Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO, Ethiopian Airlines

    FINANCIAL LEADERSHIP AWARD
    An individual in a senior financial leadership role who has demonstrated exceptional expertise and made exceptional contributions to Africa’s economic development. Criteria include sound financial management, prudent risk strategies and innovative financial solutions, driving prosperity across the continent.

    Winner: Dr Sidi Ould Tah, President, Arab Bank for Economic Development – BADEA

    EXCELLENCE IN TOURISM PROMOTION FOR AFRICA AND GLOBAL AFRICA
    An individual who has contributed significantly to promoting Africa’s tourism and cultural heritage. This award honours efforts in showcasing Africa’s diverse attractions, fostering global connections and redefining the African travel experience.

    Winner: Wode Maya, Ghanaian YouTuber

    CHAMPION OF THE AFRICA WE WANT AWARD
    An individual who has shown unwavering commitment to Pan-Africanism and the African Union’s vision. This award recognises leadership in policy advocacy, continental unity and fostering inclusive development aligned with Africa’s long-term aspirations.

    Winner: Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, Chair, Africa Prosperity Network Advisory Council

    TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP IN EDUCATION AWARD
    A leader who has implemented transformative policies to advance education in Africa. This award acknowledges visionary leadership in improving access, quality and inclusivity in education, shaping the future of African youth.

    Winner: H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, former President of the Republic of Ghana

     

  • Africa Prosperity Champions Awards & Presidential Dinner Gala 2025 to celebrate excellence in African leadership

    Africa Prosperity Champions Awards & Presidential Dinner Gala 2025 to celebrate excellence in African leadership

    Accra, Ghana, 31 January 2025 – The prestigious Africa Prosperity Champions Awards (APCA) & Presidential Gala Dinner 2025 will take place tomorrow, Saturday 1 February 2025, at the Kempinski Gold Coast Hotel in Accra, Ghana, marking the grand culmination of the third day of the 2025 Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD).

    The gala dinner will bring together over 400 distinguished guests, including heads of state, business leaders and influential policymakers from across the continent and beyond.

    APCA will celebrate exceptional individuals who embody visionary champions of the Africa We Want. These champions are not only excelling in their respective fields but are breaking barriers, fostering economic integration and creating opportunities that drive Africa’s long-term growth.

    “By recognising their achievements, we aim to inspire the next generation of leaders to accelerate Africa’s progress towards Agenda 2063, reinforcing a vision of a thriving, unified and globally competitive continent,” said Sidig El Toum, CEO of the Africa Prosperity Network, organisers of APD and APCA.

    This year’s awards will recognise outstanding achievements in the following key categories:
    1.⁠ ⁠Lifetime Achievement in Digital Technology in Africa Award
    2.⁠ ⁠Women’s Empowerment Award
    3.⁠ ⁠Excellence in Pan-African Media Award
    4.⁠ ⁠Leadership in Connecting Africa Award
    5.⁠ ⁠Champion of Transformative Education
    6.⁠ ⁠Financial Leadership Award
    7.⁠ ⁠Excellence in Tourism Promotion for Africa and Global Africa
    8.⁠ ⁠Champion of the Africa We Want Award

    The dinner will also feature performances by Stonebwoy, Ghana’s 2024 Artiste of the Year, Africa’s leading musical ensemble, Chief Moomen’s Mansa Musa play, Noyam and the celebrated solo artiste Six Strings.

    Sidig El Toum also announced that a special posthumous award shall be presented to a pioneer of digital technology in Africa, Herman Chinery-Hesse (1963-2024).

    For more information, contact:

    Wilberforce Asare, Media Relations Manager – APN Email: w.asare@africaprosperity.network Tel: +233 24 438 7050 / +233 20 899 1455

    Joel Krampa, Communication Manager – APN Email: j.krampa@africaprosperity.network Tel: +233 20 136 9105

    Kofi Nyarko Pong, Chief Operations Officer – APN Email: k.nyarko-pong@africaprosperity.network Tel: +233 26 445 3227

    Signed:

    Communication Directorate,
    Africa Prosperity Network

    For more details, visit: www.africaprosperitynetwork.com

    To all media houses

  • Three thousand delegates, seven African heads of state to participate in APD 2025

    Three thousand delegates, seven African heads of state to participate in APD 2025

    Accra, Ghana, 27 January 2025 – The Africa Prosperity Network (APN) has confirmed that over 3,000 delegates from more than 46 countries worldwide will converge at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) for the 2025 edition of the Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD), scheduled to take place from Thursday 30 January to Saturday 1 February 2025.

    The landmark gathering will feature seven confirmed African heads of state, reinforcing the event’s significance as a premier platform for advancing Africa’s economic integration and prosperity agenda.

    This announcement was made during an APN/AfCFTA hybrid press conference for the 2025 APD, which took place at the AfCFTA Secretariat, Accra, on Monday 27 January 2025.

    APD 2025, hosted by APN in collaboration with the AfCFTA Secretariat, will centre on the theme “Delivering the African Single Market Through Infrastructure: Invest. Connect. Integrate“. The Dialogues aim to galvanise public and private-sector stakeholders to accelerate infrastructure investments and integration critical to realising Africa’s vision of a single, interconnected continental market.

    Importance and key partnerships

    In his welcome address to the press conference, Sidig Faroug El Toum, chief executive officer of APN, emphasised the magnitude of the event. “This year’s Dialogues will be unprecedented in scope, with participation from diverse global players and leadership. Having over 3,000 delegates and seven heads of state join us in Accra highlights the immense interest in advancing Africa’s economic prospects through strategic infrastructure investments,” he said.

    El Toum expressed his gratitude to APN’s partners for their role in the success of the APD. “We thank the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat for walking with us on this journey towards prosperity. We treasure the partnerships we have established with numerous actors. We also deeply appreciate the Ghanaian people for their warm hospitality, which has been instrumental in hosting this event successfully,“ he said.

    Praising the media’s pivotal role in advancing the goals of the Africa Prosperity Dialogues, El Toum said: “We treasure and value our partnership with the media, and we sincerely thank them for their contributions [which] have materialised into a clearer and more influential role in shaping the Dialogues themselves, and we look forward to strengthening this collaboration.”

    Infrastructure

    The chief of staff at the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, Rui Pedro Afonso Livramento, underscored the critical role of infrastructure in achieving the vision of a fully integrated African single market. He reaffirmed the Secretariat’s commitment to fostering collaborations to address infrastructure deficits that continue to impede intra-African trade.

    “The AfCFTA has made significant strides since its inception, including establishing a solid institutional framework and recording growth in trade under the Guided Trade Initiative,” he said. “However, infrastructure remains a critical bottleneck. Inefficient transport and logistics add 30 to 40 per cent to intra-African trade costs, particularly affecting small and medium enterprises (SMEs).”

    Progress and Collaboration

    Rui Pedro Afonso Livramento highlighted that to address these challenges, the AfCFTA Secretariat has championed the establishment of trade aggregators to integrate SMEs into continental value chains. He commended countries such as China, Egypt, Kenya and South Africa for leading efforts in this regard. He called for stronger partnerships among governments, private-sector actors, and development partners to create an enabling environment for infrastructure development.

    He said the theme “Delivering African Single Market Through Infrastructure: Invest. Connect. Integrate” for APD 2025 aims to underscore the importance of infrastructure development in realising the continent’s ambitious economic goals. “This theme emphasises the crucial role of infrastructure in enabling the free movement of products, services, and investments across borders,” Livramento said. “Infrastructure modernisation, enhanced connectivity, and digital innovation will be fundamental to unlocking the transformative potential of the AfCFTA.” He expressed optimism that the 2025 edition of the APD would generate valuable insights and build momentum to accelerate the AfCFTA’s implementation.

    High-powered delegations

    Stéphanie Diatta, head of partnerships and international relations at the APN Secretariat, outlined plans for APD 2025. She said that the event will bring together representatives from 46 countries, with seven heads of state having confirmed their attendance. She emphasised that this diverse and influential assembly will focus on strategic solutions aimed at transforming Africa’s borders into bridges of economic integration and opportunity.

    The Dialogues will be graced by prominent personalities, including Mesfin Tasew, the Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, whose visionary leadership has elevated African aviation to the global stage. Other confirmed dignitaries include Ambassador Bridgette Motsepe, a respected advocate for economic empowerment in Africa; Dr Abdulhamid Al Khalifa, president of the OPEC Fund; and Dr Sidi Ould Tah, President of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA). Also attending will be Dr Amany Asfour, president of the Africa Business Council, and Moh Damush, chief executive office of Telecel Group. Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, chair of the APN Advisory Council, and H.E. Wamkele Mene, secretary general of the AfCFTA Secretariat, will also play key roles in the discussions.

    Breakfast meetings

    Tonisha Tagoe, lead (breakfast meetings) at the APN Secretariat, expressed great enthusiasm as she shared exciting developments around APD 2025, particularly the expanded breakfast meeting series. Due to their importance, these meetings, typically side events, will have dedicated programming on the morning of day one, scheduled for 30 January from 8.30am to 12 noon. The breakfast meetings will provide a platform for vital discussions on Africa’s most pressing issues, with the goal of shaping strategies that will influence the continent’s future.

    The six distinct sessions planned for the breakfast meetings will cover topics crucial for Africa’s long-term prosperity, including female entrepreneurship, housing, payments, youth empowerment, public-private partnerships and venture capital and private equity.

    APN

    The Africa Prosperity Network (APN) is a private non-profit organisation founded to advance the vision of “Africa We Want, as outlined in the African Union’s Agenda 2063. It strives to promote Africa’s progress, independent of external aid.

    Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD)

    The Africa Prosperity Dialogues series offers a strategic platform where movers and shakers across Africa elevate the continent’s economic integration objectives from ambition to real action.

    Set in Accra, APD is a one-of-a-kind event where African leaders from diverse areas of national endeavour gather each year to expedite, among other things, the implementation of the agreed initiatives within the AfCFTA trade bloc and shape the African Agenda for Action.

    APD 2025

    APD brings the continent’s critical challenges and industrialisation priorities into practical focus and aggressively advances the commercial and infrastructural interventions to achieve the vision of an Africa Beyond Aid.

    Day one (30 January) will commence with the opening of the Projet Afrique exhibition, official side events and the opening ceremony for APD 2025, featuring international dignitaries. Key discussions by renowned experts will be on infrastructure funding, transport and logistics for free movement across Africa.

    The day concludes with a welcome reception at the prestigious Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City, Accra.

    Day two (31 January) will focus on crucial topics, including sustainable energy solutions, digital infrastructure, manufacturing capacity, STEM education, health-care systems and sustainable urban development. Day two will also have an open forum with contributions from all participants on the central theme. These sessions will form the foundation for the summit’s outcome document setting out the recommendations emerging from the Dialogues.

    The final day (1 February) marks the high-level Heads of State and Business Leaders’ Dialogues, culminating in a presidential round-table discussion on policy frameworks for private sector participation in building Africa’s single market. At least six heads of state have confirmed their participation in the round table. The day will feature two significant fireside conversations, on BADEA’s US$50 billion investment fund and with one of Africa’s most celebrated industrialists.

    The summit will conclude on the night of the third day with the prestigious Africa Prosperity Champions Awards and Presidential Gala Dinner at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra, honouring individuals and organisations for their distinguished contribution to Africa’s prosperity and integration. The black-tie gala dinner will celebrate achievements that are inspiring the continent’s progress toward Agenda 2063 – its vision of “The Africa We Want”.

    For more information, contact:

    Wilberforce Asare, Media Relations Manager – APN
    Email: w.asare@africaprosperity.network

    Tel: +233 24 438 7050 / +233 20 899 1455

    Joel Krampa, Communication Manager – APN
    Email: j.krampa@africaprosperity.network
    Tel: +233 20 136 9105

    Kofi Nyarko Pong, Chief Operations Officer – APN
    Email: k.nyarko-pong@africaprosperity.network
    Tel: +233 26 445 3227

    Signed.

    Communication Directorate,
    Africa Prosperity Network

    For more details, visit: www.africaprosperitynetwork.com

    To all media houses

  • Projet Afrique: Exhibition to Highlight Africa’s Future through Innovation & Creativity

    Projet Afrique: Exhibition to Highlight Africa’s Future through Innovation & Creativity

    Accra, Ghana –26 January 2025 – Projet Afrique, the flagship exhibition of the Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2025, will showcase the beating heart of the continent’s innovation, creativity, and resilience.

    Taking place from 30 January to 1 February 2025 at the Accra International Conference Centre, this one-of-a-kind event aligns with APD 2025’s bold theme of “Delivering Africa’s Single Market through Infrastructure: Invest. Connect. Integrate.”

    According to Chief Executive Officer of the Africa Prosperity Network, Sidig Faroug Eltoum: “the exhibition will spotlight Africa’s dynamic identity across critical sectors including arts, agriculture, technology, engineering, and the automobile industry”

    Highlights of Projet Afrique

    Arts, Culture, and Fashion

    Experience the celebration of Africa’s creativity through bold paintings, unique mixed-media art, and wearable designs by talents like Samuel Oseigyei, Victoria Adoe, and Prophask. Visitors will also witness authentic Bonwire Kente weaving and contemporary fashion by Jkarta Fashion, highlighting the richness of Africa’s cultural heritage.

    Agribusiness

    Africa’s future thrives in modern, sustainable agriculture. At Projet Afrique you will experience climate-smart farming technologies, export-ready products, and innovations driven by youth and women entrepreneurs. Come and discover how partnerships in the agriculture sector are fuelling regional trade, creating jobs, and transforming economies across the continent.

    Technology and Engineering

    Experience Africa’s tech-driven transformation with advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, urban planning, and renewable energy. This segment proves that Africa isn’t just adopting cutting-edge technology, but also shaping the future.

    Automobile Industry

    From rugged terrain vehicles to electric mobility, Africa’s automotive industry is driving sustainable mobility and local manufacturing. Exhibitors like Volkswagen, KIA, and Rana Motors showcase how African innovation is powering industrialisation and advancing green technology.

    Why Attend Projet Afrique?

    If you believe in Africa’s potential to drive global innovation, Projet Afrique is the place to be. Connect with leaders, explore investment opportunities, and experience the creativity and resilience shaping Africa’s future.

    Event Details:

    Date: 30 January – 1 February 2025

    Venue: Accra International Conference Centre, Accra, Ghana

    Projet Afrique is a celebration of what is possible when vision meets action. Join us to be part of Africa’s bold journey towards unity, innovation, and global leadership.”

    About Africa Prosperity Network (APN):

    The Africa Prosperity Network (APN) is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to contributing to the successful implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Through its annual flagship Africa Prosperity Dialogues, APN creates platforms for bold collaboration, innovation, and action, fueling Africa’s economic integration and prosperity.

    Media Contact:

    Africa Prosperity Network – Communication Directorate

    Email: info@africaprosperity.network | Phone: +233 30 273 7879

    Website: www.africaprosperitynetwork.com

    SIGNED:

    Africa Prosperity Network – Communication Directorate

    For more details, visit: www.africaprosperitynetwork.com

    To all media houses

  • Africa Prosperity Dialogues breakfast meetings set for 30 January 2025

    Africa Prosperity Dialogues breakfast meetings set for 30 January 2025

    Accra, Ghana – 25 January 2025 – The Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2025, organised by the Africa Prosperity Network (APN) in collaboration with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, convenes from 30 January to 1 February 2025 at the Accra International Conference Centre in Accra, Ghana, to plan next actions for the continent under the theme “Delivering Africa’s Single Market through Infrastructure: Invest. Connect. Integrate.”

    The event, which has already attracted over 3,000 participants from 46 countries, including several African heads of state, institutional heads, industry leaders, chief executives, entrepreneurs, ministers, policymakers, thought leaders and development partners, will begin with a series of breakfast meetings, featuring critical focus areas and challenges that buttress this year’s theme. Over eight sessions – including workshops, presentations, panel discussions and practical networking opportunities – the breakfast meetings, starting from 8:30am on 30 January, will address challenges for sectors critical to Africa’s economic integration and prosperity goals.

    According to Sidig El Toum, Chief Executive Officer, APN, “The layout of the breakfast meetings reflects the private sector’s leadership in initiating the dialogues, ultimately owning and driving AfCFTA’s single-market agenda. It also speaks to current opportunities for industry actors, including young and women entrepreneurs across the continent.”

    Tonisha Tagoe, International Relations and Trade Liaison for APN, adds, “Since its inception, the annual Africa Prosperity Dialogues have grown into a cornerstone of Africa’s economic integration and transformation. Now, in its third year, the dialogues continue to break new ground with expanded programming, televised discussions, and an even stronger focus on actionable outcomes.”

    She says: “These Breakfast Meetings set the stage for impactful discussions on trade, technology, finance and entrepreneurship ahead of the official opening ceremony of the Africa Prosperity Dialogues 2025.”

    Date: 30 January 2025
    Time: 8:30am-12:00pm
    Location: Accra International Conference Centre, Accra

    Breakfast Meeting Series:

    1. Ladies Entrepreneurship Club – Scaling Your Business Through Strategic Technology Investment
    2. Ghana Chamber of Young Entrepreneurs (GCYE) – Bridging Infrastructure Gaps: Unleashing the Potential of SMEs and Young Entrepreneurs in Africa
    3. Africa Law Practice International (ALPi) – International Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Powering Trade for AfCFTA Roll-Out
    4. Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB) – Unlocking Finance for Housing and Urban Development
    5. ASIME – Exploring Venture Capital and Private Equity Funding Models for Infrastructure
    6. The Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) – Accelerating AfCFTA Implementation through Payment: Leveraging PAPSS for Enhanced Cross-Border Trade in Africa

    For enquiries about the Breakfast Meetings, please contact Tonisha Tagoe via

    Email: t.tagoe@africaprosperity.network
    Tel: +233 59 373 9468

    The Africa Prosperity Dialogues 2025 is more than an event – it is a declaration of Africa’s commitment to economic integration, a testament to the continent’s resilience and a blueprint for a more prosperous future, owned and driven collectively by the continent’s private sector, from small to big business, inclusively with the youth and women.

    For media enquiries, contact: Joel Krampa, Communication Manager Email: j.krampa@africaprosperity.network
    +233 20 136 9105

    Signed

    Communication Directorate Africa Prosperity Network

    For news updates and other information, download the APN Mobile App:

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  • Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2025 to advance African Economic Integration

    Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2025 to advance African Economic Integration

    Accra, Ghana – 15 January 2025 – The Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2025 is set to take place from 30 January to 1 February 2025 at the Accra International Conference Centre under the theme “Delivering Africa’s Single Market through Infrastructure: Invest. Connect. Integrate.”

    This annual event brings together Africa’s political and business leaders to discuss and push forward the agenda of turning Africa into the world’s largest single market, in terms of member states. It is organised by the Africa Prosperity Network in collaboration with the African Continental Free Trade Secretariat and the patronage of the Office of the President of Ghana, the host nation.

    This year’s event will bring together nearly 3,000 participants, including African heads of state, giants of industry, CEOs, ministers of state, policymakers, thought leaders and development partners. Key discussions will centre on leveraging infrastructure to build a unified African market of 1.4 billion consumers and fostering innovation to promote integrated economic growth and shared prosperity.

    Day One (30 January) will commence with the opening of the Projet Afrique Exhibition and official side events and the opening ceremony of APD 2025, featuring international dignitaries.  Key discussions by renowned experts will be had on infrastructure funding, transport and logistics for free movement across Africa. The day concludes with a Welcome Reception at the prestigious Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City, Accra.

    Day Two (31 January) focuses on crucial topics including sustainable energy solutions, digital infrastructure, manufacturing capacity, STEM education, healthcare systems, and sustainable urban development. Day Two will also have an open forum with contributions from all participants on the theme. These sessions will form the foundation for the summit’s outcome document with recommendations.

    The final day (1 February) marks the High-Level Heads of State and Business Leaders’ Dialogue, culminating in a Presidential Roundtable discussion on policy frameworks for private sector participation in building Africa’s single market. At least six heads of state have confirmed their participation. The day will feature two significant fireside conversations on BADEA’s US$50 billion Investment Fund and with one of Africa’s most celebrated industrialists.

    The summit concludes on the night of the third day with the prestigious Africa Prosperity Champions Awards and Presidential Gala Dinner at Kempinski Hotel, Accra. honouring individuals and organisations for their distinguished contributions to Africa’s prosperity and integration. The black-tie gala dinner will celebrate achievements that inspire the continent’s progress toward its 2063 vision of building the Africa we want.

    Event Details and Registration:

    Media Enquiries:

    Joel Krampa, Communication Lead
    Email: j.krampa@africaprosperity.network | Tel: +233 201369105

    Signed.
    Communication Directorate
    Africa Prosperity Network
    For more details, visit: www.africaprosperitynetwork.com

  • Facilitating Intra-Africa Travel: Ghana’s Visa-free policy and the Africa Prosperity Dialogues

    Facilitating Intra-Africa Travel: Ghana’s Visa-free policy and the Africa Prosperity Dialogues

    President Akufo-Addo fulfilled a promise delivered last January to international participants, mainly business executives, at the Africa Prosperity Dialogues 2024. His promise was to allow visa-free travel to Ghana for citizens of all other African countries before his term of office expired on January 6, 2025. This decision, as reported by Asaase News, received executive approval on Wednesday, December 18, and is scheduled to come into effect in early 2025. This move solidifies Ghana’s position as a key advocate for pan-African mobility, joining the ranks of Rwanda, Seychelles, The Gambia, and Benin as the fifth African nation to allow visa-free entry for all African passport holders.

    The initiative aligns with the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), headquartered in Accra, which aims to establish the world’s largest single market by facilitating the smooth movement of goods, services, and people across borders.

    President Akufo-Addo unveiled this commitment during the 2024 Africa Prosperity Dialogues, emphasising the importance of enhancing intra-African trade and mobility.

    Addressing an audience of over 2,000 business executives and political leaders, he highlighted the government’s dedication to enabling visa-free travel for all Africans entering Ghana.

    This will be a major boost for the African Union’s ongoing efforts to allow the free movement of people, goods, and services as the continent works towards implementing the world’s largest single market, involving at least 55 nation states.

    The Commissioner for Economic Development Trade Tourism Industry and Minerals at the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) secretariat, Albert Muchanga, has stated that President Akufo-Addo’s decision to grant executive approval for visa-free travel to Ghana by all Africans is a move in the right direction and marks a step forward to the vision of creating a single African Market under AfCFTA.

    “It is most welcome. It is a move in the right direction. We have the Protocol of the Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community Relating to the Free Movement of People, Right of Residence, and Right of Establishment. The Protocol also provides for mutual recognition of professional qualifications,” Albert Muchanga told Asaase News in an exclusive interview.

    “The move removes a major non-tariff barrier to intra-African trade and takes a step forward in realizing the vision of creating a single African market under the African Continental Free Trade Area, which is headquartered in Accra, Ghana,” Mr Muchanga added.

  • Press Release: Africa Prosperity Network (APN) appoints Sidig Faroug El Toum as its new Chief Executive Officer

    Press Release: Africa Prosperity Network (APN) appoints Sidig Faroug El Toum as its new Chief Executive Officer

    Accra, Ghana – 26 December 2024 – The Africa Prosperity Network (APN), the continent’s leading organisation dedicated to promoting the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Africa’s single market by mobilising the private sector for shared ownership of the project, today announces the appointment of Sidig Faroug El Toum as the Chief Executive Officer of the APN Secretariat, effective 1 January 2025.

    El Toum’s appointment reinforces APN’s commitment to contribute to the acceleration of Africa’s economic transformation through enhanced cooperation and strategic partnerships with all stakeholders.

    “As we continue to drive our mission of making Africa work for Africans, Sidig Faroug El Toum’s appointment strengthens our capacity to facilitate meaningful dialogue and action towards continental prosperity,” said Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, the Founder and Executive Chairman of APN.

    “His extensive experience in international development and proven track record in fostering cross- border collaboration aligns perfectly with our vision of an interconnected, prosperous Africa.”

    Sidig Faroug El Toum joins APN at a critical moment as the organisation expands its role in facilitating the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and promoting intra- African trade, particularly with the upcoming Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) in 2025.

    His appointment will strengthen APN’s position as the leading platform for connecting African leaders, policymakers, and business executives to foster continental economic integration.

    Throughout his distinguished career spanning over two decades, Mr El Toum has demonstrated exceptional ability in orchestrating high-level diplomatic initiatives and managing complex multi- stakeholder programmes across Africa. His experience at the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue in Geneva and with UNICEF has equipped him with invaluable expertise in building consensus and driving transformational change across diverse African contexts.

    “The Africa Prosperity Network represents the aspirations of a united, prosperous Africa,” said Mr El Toum. “I am honoured to join this visionary organisation that has established itself as a crucial catalyst for Africa’s economic transformation. Together with our partners and high-level Advisory Council, we will strengthen APN’s role in facilitating the dialogue and collaboration necessary to realise the full potential of the AfCFTA and accelerate Africa’s journey to prosperity.”

    Under Sidig Faroug El Toum’s leadership, APN will enhance its flagship initiatives, including the annual Africa Prosperity Dialogues series, which bring together Heads of State, senior government officials, business leaders, institutional heads, and policy experts to advance practical solutions for Africa’s prosperity.

    His expertise will be instrumental in expanding APN’s impact in key areas, such as:

    • Promoting innovation and knowledge exchange across the continent
    • Strengthening implementation of the AfCFTA through enhanced public-private sector dialogue
    • Facilitating strategic partnerships between African nations and businessesAdvancing policy frameworks that support intra-African trade and investment
    • Building capacity for regional economic integration

    About Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2025

    Registration for the Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2025 has begun. The third edition of this annual event will take place in Accra, Ghana, from January 30 to February 1, 2025. The focus of APD2925 is on how the continent’s private sector, in collaboration with other key stakeholders, can take ownership of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The aim is to realise the vision of a borderless Africa where goods and services can be exchanged freely within a market of 1.4 billion consumers. Additionally, this event will address the funding and development of the infrastructure needed to facilitate the free movement of people, goods, and services across Africa. Join Africa’s political and business leaders, as well as social change makers at APD2025.

    Regiser for Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2025

    About Africa Prosperity Network (APN)

    The Africa Prosperity Network is the continent’s leading organisation focused on promoting and facilitating the successful implementation of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Through high-level dialogues, strategic initiatives, and collaborative platforms, APN works to create an environment where African nations and businesses can prosper through enhanced cooperation and innovation. The organisation’s flagship event, the Africa Prosperity Dialogues, brings together African Heads of State, senior government officials, business leaders, and policy experts to advance practical solutions for continental prosperity.

    SIGNED.

    Africa Prosperity Network Communication Directorate

    For more information, visit www.africaprosperitynetwork.com