Driving Innovation and Youth Investment: Timbuktoo and UNDP at the Africa CEO Forum

Timbuktoo and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) recently participated in the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, engaging with business leaders to foster innovation and support the entrepreneurial aspirations of Africa’s youth. The event attracted over 2,000 participants, including thought leaders, executives, and decision-makers, all focused on shaping the continent’s economic future.

The forum’s theme, “Is Africa on the table or the menu?” struck a chord with attendees. Ahunna Eziakonwa, Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Director of the Bureau for Africa emphasized that Africa must shape its own destiny through the potential of its youth. Nathalie Jabangwe, Executive Secretary at Timbuktoo, emphasized the initiative’s broader goals.

With over 60% of Africa’s population under 25, the continent has a demographic advantage. Investing in young people is essential for unlocking Africa’s potential. Their energy, creativity, and resilience are vital for driving innovation and sustainable development. However, achieving this potential requires collaboration across government, private sector, development organizations, and civil society.

During a fireside chat, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, former Vice President of Nigeria and Guardian of Timbuktoo, highlighted the need for a robust ecosystem to finance innovation in Africa. He stressed that Timbuktoo is providing solutions to harness Africa’s unique rhythm. Rwanda’s Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, praised the initiative, calling it a transformative project that integrates youth into Africa’s economic growth by offering funding, ecosystem building, and partnerships.

At the forum, Timbuktoo and UNDP held bilateral meetings with key stakeholders, discussing the importance of supporting young innovators. These discussions emphasized the need for resources, mentorship, and platforms to help youth transform their ideas into sustainable businesses. Stakeholders included SwedFund, East Africa Development Bank, VISA, Orange, Proparco, Ecobank, and Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank.

This gathering was a powerful convergence of ideas and strategies, signaling a new era of African innovation. As the forum concluded, it was clear that Timbuktoo had set the stage for Africa’s entrepreneurial spirit to thrive and make a global impact. The rhythms of change were undeniable, heralding a new chapter of ingenuity and growth for the continent.

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