Milken Institute Expands African Engagement with New Business Council
The Milken Institute has announced the launch of the Africa Leaders Business Council, a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening partnerships across the African continent. This council comprises thought leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and experts in business, technology, finance, sustainability, and innovation, supporting the Institute’s mission to enhance its network and engagements in Africa.
The Africa Leaders Business Council is a cornerstone of the Milken Institute’s regional engagement strategy, reinforcing its commitment to Africa while complementing its global presence in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. The council aims to provide high-level insights into Africa’s dynamic business environment for the Institute’s diverse stakeholders.
Prominent African leaders, including President William Ruto of Kenya, President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana, and Patrice Motsepe, Chairman and Founder of African Rainbow Minerals, have previously participated in Milken Institute events, reflecting the growing interest in Africa’s role in the global economy.
"Amidst the rapidly intensifying geopolitical landscape and given its tremendous demographic potential, Africa is poised to play an increasingly pivotal role in the global economy," said Laura Deal Lacey, Executive Vice President at the Milken Institute. "We recognize the excellence in Africa’s innovation and ingenuity. Our Africa Leaders Business Council will help our stakeholders navigate the continent and provide fresh perspectives on global issues such as climate change, health, capital access, and energy transition."
The Milken Institute’s recent engagements in Africa include strategic guidance on cancer prevention in Nigeria, the Global Financial Scholars Programs to develop future leaders in financial policy, and the Milken–Motsepe Innovation Prize Program, which promotes technological solutions for the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Upcoming events to engage and mobilize the council include a private investor dialogue during the United Nations General Assembly, a Nigeria policy roundtable on debt sustainability, the Milken Institute Middle East and Africa Summit in December, and various webinars and discussions.
"Flutterwave’s work to enable global enterprises to expand into and across Africa aligns with the Milken Institute’s focus on financial technology and human and social capital," said Olugbenga “GB” Agboola, Founder and CEO of Flutterwave and council member. "We look forward to contributing our insights to the Institute’s expanding work on the continent."
Inaugural council members include Africa Investment Forum, BES, CrossBoundary Group, Dangote Group, Flutterwave, Lateral Frontiers VC, Lions Head Global Partners, Prosper Africa, Proxima Legal, RisCura, Sabi, Symbion Power, Tofino Capital, Ubuntu Group, Unified State Group, Women’s World Banking, and YAATRA Ventures.
