Africa is open for business. From vibrant tech hubs and creative industries to renewable energy projects, entrepreneurs and innovators are looking to the continent as the next frontier for growth and investment.
Africa’s growth story is unfolding against a backdrop of serious challenges – from mounting debt and adverse effects of climate change to financing gaps for development. Yet experts see trade as a powerful pathway to growth. With the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) creating a single market of 1.3 billion people, trade could lift millions of out poverty, create jobs for young Africans and help unlock the continent’s full potential.
The Global African Business Initiative (GABI): Unstoppable Africa is a UN-backed platform hosted by UN Global Compact that brings together leaders, CEOs, investors and innovators to New York every year on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly to showcase investment opportunities and to position the continent at the centre of global conversations about business and sustainable development.
This year’s GABI event will be held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, New York, and will be hosted by UN Secretary-General António Guterres and African Union Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf.
Now in its fourth year, the event’s theme this year is “The BIG Push: Africa Shapes the Markets.” It underscores the urgency of positioning Africa not just as a participant but as a driver of global markets—from energy and critical minerals to digital transformation, creative industries, and sports. The theme reflects Africa’s determination to set its own agenda in a rapidly changing world economy.
Ms. Sanda Ojiambo, the Assistant Secretary-General and CEO of UN Global Compact says it is Africa’s moment to establish its position in global trade.
“This year we are convening at a very unique moment in history. Geopolitics is heightened, there are trade and tariff challenges, but most importantly, the biggest opportunity is that the world is looking at Africa,” said Ms. Ojiambo. “We want to shape the idea that business is not done in Africa, but with Africa. Africa must be at the table”
Ms. Ojiambo stressed Africa’s centrality as a solution provider for many of the big challenges facing the world today—energy, security, climate change, demographic change, critical minerals, arable land.
“GABI should be the platform where Africa’s investability and bankability are consistently demonstrated…Africa has solutions, we must advance the case that Africa is part of the solution-making,” she added.
Participants can expect vibrant discussions with captains of industry, heads of state, innovators and entrepreneurs. At the end of the event, they should expect concrete actions and commitments, with strong announcements highlighting where the opportunities are to partner with Africa.
As the world’s youngest and fastest-urbanizing continent, Africa is home to vast natural resources, booming creative industries, and cutting-edge innovations in areas such as fintech, renewable energy, and agriculture. The Global Africa Business Initiative creates a space to align solutions, unlock investment, and ensure Africa’s voice is at the table on global economic issues.
This year’s gathering comes at a critical moment for the continent’s recovery and long-term growth. Leaders will discuss how Africa can leverage its demographic dividend, scale up climate action, and drive progress on the Sustainable Development Goals. The program also highlights Africa’s creative economy, youth entrepreneurship, women’s leadership, and digital transformation—sectors that are reshaping the future of business in Africa.
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