Dangote advocates for Stronger African Integration

President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has called for stronger integration among African countries, particularly through the free movement of people, goods and services.

Speaking at the Accra Reset event hosted by President John Dramani Mahama on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York on Monday, September 21, Dangote said African countries had discussed free movement for too long and needed to take concrete steps to make it a reality.

He questioned why Africans often faced greater difficulties travelling within the continent than visitors from outside Africa, arguing that such restrictions can also affect investment decisions.

According to Dangote, easier movement across African borders would support stronger economic cooperation and make it easier for Africans to explore investment opportunities across the continent.

He also urged African countries to believe in their own potential and increase investment in the continent, stressing that Africa’s development should be driven by Africans themselves.

Dangote pointed to Africa’s young and growing population as a major opportunity, contrasting it with ageing populations in other parts of the world.

However, he said the continent needed to move beyond repeatedly discussing its potential and focus on turning those opportunities into tangible development.

He disclosed that the Dangote Group had rolled out an investment programme of about US$46 billion between now and 2030, covering projects across Africa.

He said the investment reflected the group’s confidence in the continent and its long-term prospects.

The Accra Reset event, held in New York on September 21, brought together political leaders, development advocates and business figures to discuss global development and economic challenges.

By Agnes Kus