By Gilbert Ekugbe
Renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist Tony Elumelu has called for a bold rethinking of Africa’s relationship with the world, urging a shift from charity-driven models to one centered on investment, entrepreneurship, and equal partnership.
Speaking at a high-level Africa-Europe summit focused on economic cooperation and sustainable development on Monday, Elumelu said, “Africa needs partners, not charity. Our future will not be built by aid, but by investment, partnership, and entrepreneurship,” he said.
His remarks come at a time when Africa is at a pivotal moment, rich in opportunity but still facing deep structural challenges.
For decades, much of the global engagement with Africa has centered around aid and humanitarian support.
He noted that Africa’s youthful population, abundant natural resources, and growing innovation ecosystem offer immense opportunities for investors seeking sustainable and mutually beneficial growth.
Elumelu also stressed that empowering small and medium-sized enterprises and young innovators is key to unlocking the continent’s economic potential and achieving inclusive development.
The summit brought together policymakers, investors, and business leaders from across Africa and Europe to explore ways to deepen trade relations, promote sustainable growth, and attract long-term investments.
Elumelu, who has consistently championed entrepreneurship as the engine of Africa’s transformation, reaffirmed that Africans must take the lead in driving their continent’s development, while global partners play supportive and collaborative roles.
“The time has come to redefine the relationship between Africa and the world — one based on dignity, respect, and shared prosperity,” he concluded.
