ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — A delegation of Africa’s foremost business leaders concluded high-level meetings with United Arab Emirates officials Friday, solidifying plans for expanded economic cooperation across the continent.
The two-day summit brought together Nigerian executives Elizabeth Jack-Rich, Aliko Dangote and Tony Elumelu alongside philanthropist Mo Ibrahim. Representatives from Kenya, South Africa and Egypt also participated in discussions focused on energy, agriculture and digital infrastructure development.
The African delegation secured meetings with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi before traveling to Dubai for policy talks with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the nation’s prime minister and Dubai ruler.
“This gathering represented a pivotal moment for African ambition,” said Jack-Rich, CEO of infrastructure firm ELIN Group. “We explored practical frameworks for mutual prosperity with our UAE partners.”
Building on Financial Foundations
The diplomatic push builds upon substantial existing investment. UAE capital flows to Africa exceeded $110 billion between 2019 and 2023, with over $70 billion directed toward renewable energy projects.
Additionally, the UAE recently announced a $1 billion fund to support artificial intelligence initiatives in African education and agriculture sectors.
Beyond government meetings, the delegation engaged with philanthropist Bill Gates on development strategies. UAE Special Envoy Badr Jafar facilitated a private dinner connecting African executives with Emirati philanthropic organizations.
Continuing Momentum
Jack-Rich’s participation follows her recent address at an African economic conference where she emphasized self-reliant development. “Africa is ready, and we must continue to build like it,” she told attendees in Botswana last month.
The UAE has increasingly positioned itself as a strategic partner for African development, while nations across the continent seek foreign investment for large-scale infrastructure modernization.
Both sides expressed optimism about implementing concrete partnership agreements in coming months, though specific deal terms remain undisclosed.
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