LAGOS/Nigeria: In a significant convergence of global thought leaders, the Africa Social Impact Summit 2023 is set to feature the distinguished presence of the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed, alongside other prominent international figures. This event, slated to unfold on August 10th and 11th, will be hosted by the Sterling One Foundation in collaboration with the United Nations Nigeria, as detailed in an official statement issued by Mrs. Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation.
Themed “Global Vision, Local Action: Repositioning the African Development Ecosystem for Sustainable Outcomes,” the summit’s focus resonates with urgent developmental concerns. The event is primed to tackle these challenges through a cohesive and collaborative approach, aiming to create a more sustainable future for the African continent.
The Eko Convention Centre and the virtual realm will serve as the dual arenas for this groundbreaking event. The choice of theme underscores the imperative to amalgamate international insights with local efforts to usher in tangible and enduring progress.
Among the esteemed speakers are luminaries such as Abubakar Suleiman, the MD/CEO of Sterling Bank; Joyce Banda, former President of Malawi; Matthias Schmale, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator; and Professor Oyebanji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, Senior Special Adviser on Industrialization to the President of the African Development Bank.
Of particular note, Professor Oyelaran-Oyeyinka is slated to lead discussions on pivotal thematic areas, encompassing WASH, Climate Action, Circular Economy, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, Education, and Health. The insights garnered from these discussions are expected to illuminate viable pathways to channel impactful investments into Africa, with the overarching goal of realizing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
At the heart of the summit’s agenda is a keen emphasis on impact investments in Africa, recognized as a driving force behind the continent’s developmental trajectory. The confluence of more than 50 influential figures from both the public and private sectors, including Amina Mohammed, Abubakar Suleiman, Joyce Banda, Matthias Schmale, and Professor Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, underscores the commitment to strategic dialogues that closely align with the SDGs 2030 agenda.
In the words of Ibekwe, “This assembly will deliberate on strategies that harness the potential of the private sector and impact investors, propelling the acceleration of positive outcomes.” The anticipated outcome is a collaborative blueprint that paves the way for cross-sectoral partnerships, catalyzes impactful initiatives, and lays down a roadmap for a more sustainable and equitable future.
As the Africa Social Impact Summit beckons, the call to action is underscored by Ibekwe’s conviction: “United under the banner of change, this summit holds the promise of unlocking innovative solutions that address Africa’s most pressing challenges and hasten the realization of the SDGs.”
For those seeking engagement, registration details and comprehensive information about the Africa Social Impact Summit are available at www.theimpactsummit.org.
