The importance of collaboration across sectors, bringing together private sector organisations, Non Governmental Organisations and other stakeholders to tackle Africa’s most pressing challenges was recently highlighted at the Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS) 2024.
Co-convened by The Sterling One Foundation and the United Nations, the event was held at the Eko Convention Centre between July 25 and 26, 2024.
A significant outcome of the summit was the commitment to developing a resource allocation framework aimed at addressing healthcare issues across the continent.
ASIS 2024, the largest hybrid gathering of leaders in the African development sphere, underscored the crucial role of the private sector in driving innovative and sustainable solutions for Africa’s future.
The event kicked off with a keynote address by United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed.
She stated: “Sustainable growth must include climate resilience, leveraging technology, and private sector innovations, urging attendees to “recommit to the 2030 agenda with a focus on inclusivity, impact and inspiration.”
A diverse gathering of government officials, business executives, and development experts participated in the summit.
The CEO of The Sterling One Foundation, Olapeju Ibekwe, emphasised the necessity of collaboration, saying: “No single entity can address the multifaceted challenges we face.
“Through partnerships, we can harness diverse expertise and resources to tackle issues ranging from healthcare to climate resilience.”
An investor roundtable, organised by the Lagos State Government in collaboration with various organisations, opened the summit.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s presence underscored the government’s commitment to fostering a favorable environment for sustainable development.
Throughout the summit, the indispensable role of the private sector in Africa’s future growth was a recurring theme.
The CEO of Sterling Bank, Abubakar Suleiman, noted: “Creating a market for social impact means ensuring there is information, trust, and efficient allocation of resources.”
Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat, presented the “THEMES PLUS” initiative, which promotes development in crucial sectors.
“ASIS 2024 must serve as a catalyst for collaboration and action,” Hamzat declared, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships.
Jumoke Oduwole, representing Vice President Kashim Shettima, called for a paradigm shift in economic thinking.
“It is time for action; we must move beyond rhetoric and focus on solutions with tangible impact,” she asserted, adding: “Africa can lead the way in a new model that balances prosperity, the environment, and equity.”
A significant highlight was the “Bold Actions Meeting” on the second day, where 15 Commissioners of Health from various Nigerian states convened to focus on healthcare challenges.
The CEO of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Zouera Yousouffou, candidly addressed the need for a shift from diagnosis to intervention.
“Africa does not have the necessary resources or organisational framework to address health-related problems,” she said.
ABC Health CEO, Mories Atoki, pointed out the politicisation of partnerships as a major barrier, while Dr. Tayo Aduloju, CEO of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, stressed the importance of delivering tangible outcomes over empty promises.
The summit also tackled the integration of displaced persons into the workforce. A panel led by H.E. Mrs. Toyin Saraki, founder of Wellbeing Foundation Africa, discussed strategies for the economic empowerment of this vulnerable population, featuring insights from UNHCR representatives and refugees.
Professor Akin Abayomi, the Lagos State Commissioner of Health, highlighted the foundational importance of moral leadership and education, noting: “Leaders don’t just happen; they are made through education and training.”
The summit facilitated the formation of new partnerships aimed at addressing healthcare, climate resilience, and economic empowerment.
Attendees promised commitment to actionable plans, including the development of a resource allocation framework and initiatives to integrate displaced persons into the workforce.
ASIS 2024 brought together top leaders from diverse sectors, underscoring a collaborative approach to sustainable development.
The active participation of high-level officials and experts, combined with the tangible commitments made, reinforces the credibility and impact of the summit.
