May 13 (THEWILL) – United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to driving Africa’s economic transformation through entrepreneurship, innovation, trade facilitation, and strategic partnerships at the Africa Forward Summit 2026 held in Nairobi, Kenya.
The summit, themed “Africa–France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth,” brought together Heads of State, policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders from Africa and Europe to explore sustainable pathways for industrialisation, economic growth, and stronger cross-border collaboration.
Speaking at the event, French President Emmanuel Macron stressed the importance of a renewed partnership between Africa and France built on innovation, investment, and shared prosperity.
“Africa and France are equal partners with common objectives. We must build strategic autonomy through innovation, investment, and partnership,” Macron said.
Chairman of UBA Group, Tony O. Elumelu, also underscored the critical role of entrepreneurship and private sector-led development in unlocking Africa’s economic potential.
“Africa’s future will not be built by aid, but by entrepreneurship, investment, and bold partnerships,” Elumelu stated.
He emphasised that stronger collaboration among governments, financial institutions, development agencies, and the private sector would be essential in accelerating Africa’s transformation.
According to him, sustainable growth across the continent depends on strategic partnerships capable of unlocking investment, supporting entrepreneurs, strengthening infrastructure, and expanding trade opportunities.
The summit also provided a platform for UBA to reinforce its position as Africa’s Global Bank and a leading financial institution facilitating trade, investment, and economic integration across the continent.
Operating in 20 African countries, alongside key international markets including the United Kingdom, France, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates, UBA continues to connect African businesses to global opportunities while supporting investors seeking access to Africa’s expanding markets.
The bank reiterated its commitment to promoting intra-African trade, digital transformation, youth empowerment, and sustainable economic development across the continent.
Ogochukwu Onwaeze is a writer specializing in business and economic journalism. At THEWILL News Media, she translates market trends, financial developments, and policy shifts into clear and engaging stories.
Deprecated: file_exists(): Passing null to parameter #1 ($filename) of type string is deprecated in /home/thewilln/public_html/staging.thewillnews.com/wp-includes/comment-template.php on line 1624