Africa is stepping into a decisive role in the global economy. This was the message delivered by Sanda Ojiambo, UN Assistant Secretary-General and CEO of the UN Global Compact, at the launch of Unstoppable Africa 2025, which will take place on September 21–22 during the 80th United Nations General Assembly. “The trajectory of Africa will define the markets,” Ojiambo stressed. “Global businesses and investors must see Africa as a partner—not merely as a destination for investment.” With this call, she emphasized that Africa is redefining its role in global business, shifting from being a resource supplier to becoming a strategic player in international markets.
Convened by UN Secretary-General António Guterres and African Union President Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the forum will bring together heads of state, global business leaders, investors, policymakers, and creatives. It is recognized as the leading African business forum outside the continent. This year’s theme, “The Big Push: Africa Shapes the Markets,” highlights the continent’s unmatched assets: critical minerals such as cobalt and lithium, vast renewable energy potential, fertile lands, and the world’s youngest population. The objective is clear: build resilient industries that serve both local and global markets. Central to this vision is the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), projected to increase intra-African trade by 45% by 2045, reducing reliance on external markets and creating a powerful integrated economy.
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Key Voices
Confirmed speakers include Presidents Ndemupelila Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah (Namibia), Duma Boko (Botswana), Julius Maada Bio (Sierra Leone), and João Lourenço (Angola). They will be joined by leading business figures such as Peter Ndegwa (Safaricom), James Manyika (Google), James Mwangi (Equity Group), Strive Masiyiwa (Econet), and Olivier Laouchez (Trace). The gala dinner will be hosted by actor and humanitarian activist Nomzamo Mbatha, bringing together political leadership, business innovation, and African creativity.
Global Partnerships
The forum is backed by a strong network of partners. Platinum sponsors include Afreximbank, Bidvest, Middle East Green Initiative, Sustainable Energy for All Mission 300, and PepsiCo. Gold sponsors feature the African Development Bank Group, Meta, Safaricom, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Media partners include African Business, Arise News, Business Day, Nation Media Group, News Central TV, and Wall Street Africa.
Africa is unstoppable
Ahead of the event, GABI has launched the campaign “What Makes Africa Unstoppable”, with contributions from leaders such as UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed. In partnership with the Electrify Video Partners Foundation, GABI has also launched a dedicated Unstoppable Africa YouTube channel, which will livestream the sessions worldwide.
“Africa is home to some of the world’s youngest, most creative, and entrepreneurial minds. We are thrilled to showcase these inspiring stories to global audiences,” said Ian Shepherd, Co-CEO of Electrify Video Partners. With an agenda focused on action and solutions, Unstoppable Africa 2025 stands as a landmark event, sending a clear message: the future of global markets will not be shaped without Africa—but with Africa.
