Earlier this week, the Busines mogul ad expert joined Jutta Urpilainen, European Union Commissioner for International Partnerships, to discuss the EU’s approach to the Sahel.
Impressive engagement by the European Union – it was refreshing, there was mutual respect – The Tony Elumelu Foundation and EU International Partnerships have worked closely together on female entrepreneurship. It was good that the views and voices of business and entrepreneurs, particularly the young, who might otherwise take the cruel option of migration, are heard.
But I also reflected on Africa’s own approach to development. I know no one but us will develop Africa. I have criticised outdated development models – and championed the need to economically empower our young. But I also know we Africans must eliminate any sense of entitlement, our own development barriers – and in line with my philosophy of Africapitalism, work collaboratively – our governments, private sector, development partners, and international institutions – to create real change.
The devastating impact of climate change and the acute unemployment ravaging our young, call for solutions that prioritise our young Africans.
And we must not just speak to our young, but listen to them. Channel their creative energies, their drive, their entrepreneurship. I see successes everyday – I need to see many more.
Collaboration is key. As my good friend, Koen Doens, DG, International Partnerships at the EU, highlighted during the meeting, the ongoing partnership between the EU and the Tony Elumelu Foundation is creating thousands of new jobs and unlocking economic hope and prosperity. Through this partnership, thousands of young entrepreneurs have been empowered with business training, mentorship, and funding to start and scale small businesses.
Intervention models that prioritise our young, ensure delivery to the last mile, and guarantee the intended beneficiaries are the true recipients, should be replicated and scaled. Collaboration with the private sector provides a more effective means to creating economic empowerment and employment. Working with local partners with the expertise, track record, knowhow, networks, and insight to ensure that scarce resources are channelled directly to the vulnerable communities in need.
The work we do together has scratched the surface. We must work to bring solutions and not to point our fingers at each other. Working collaboratively is the only way get to the solutions we need in Africa.
Africa is a thriving continent, with 60% of its population under 35. This is an immense opportunity for growth, innovation, and sustainability; but first, we must define how we all contribute towards building the Africa we want to see. And the EU must regard Africa as an equal partner as we progress on this renewed journey.
We feel the frustrations of the past, but the past cannot provide the way forward. We need to discuss what we do going forward by looking at the problems that have led to all of these and find solutions.