Africa stands at a pivotal juncture in its economic evolution—one that holds significance not only for the continent but for the global economy at large. With an estimated 60% of the world’s most promising solar energy potential and extensive reserves of critical minerals such as cobalt, lithium, and rare earth elements, Africa possesses strategic assets essential to the global clean energy transition. These natural resources, once perceived primarily as commodities for export, are now increasingly recognised as levers for structural transformation, industrial development, and climate-aligned investment.
On Wednesday, 2 July 2025, more than 700 leaders from Africa and across the world will gather at the Guildhall in the City of London for The Africa Debate 2025—the UK’s leading Africa-focused investment forum, hosted by Invest Africa. With a mission to connect business and policy to unlock Africa’s economic potential, Invest Africa serves as a central platform for convening capital, leadership, and insight across the continent’s key sectors.
This year’s theme—“Harnessing Natural Capital for Growth”—centres on the urgent need to transform Africa’s vast mineral and ecological endowments into value-added industries, resilient supply chains, and climate-smart development. The forum will provide a high-level space for boardroom-style dialogue, strategic networking, and cross-sector engagement among Heads of State, government ministers, development financiers, and global corporates.
Leading the distinguished roster of speakers is H.E. Dr. William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, whose leadership on climate diplomacy, trade integration, and sustainable development continues to shape East Africa’s policy direction. His presence underscores the geopolitical significance of the gathering and Africa’s rising strategic importance.
Also featured is The Rt Hon. the Lord Collins of Highbury, UK Minister for Africa, representing Britain’s commitment to strengthening political and commercial partnerships with African economies. From the multilateral arena, H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and Prof. Benedict Oramah, President of the African Export-Import Bank, will offer perspectives on how trade integration and financing innovation can drive industrial development.
Other confirmed speakers include:
- Strive Masiyiwa, Founder and Chairman, Econet Group
- Samaila Zubairu, President and CEO, Africa Finance Corporation
- H.E. Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Nigeria
- H.E. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State
- Olukorede Adenowo, CEO, FirstBank UK
Under the stewardship of Invest Africa, the event aims to translate macroeconomic aspirations into concrete investment pathways. With over 15 years of experience facilitating trade and investment across the continent, the organisation plays a pivotal role in convening institutional investors, project developers, and policy shapers to unlock opportunities at scale. Through platforms like The Africa Debate, it channels insights into action, helping bridge the persistent gap between capital and viable projects.
This year’s programme will tackle strategic issues at the intersection of industrial policy, energy transition, and market integration. These include expanding local processing capacity for critical minerals, building green manufacturing hubs, and designing effective public-private financing mechanisms for infrastructure.
The role of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will feature prominently. Covering a market of 1.4 billion people, it provides a platform for industrial specialisation, harmonised regulation, and regional value chains. Yet, its success hinges on real investment in transport corridors, cross-border logistics, and digital infrastructure.
With the global clean energy transition accelerating, Africa must leverage its natural capital to not only supply raw inputs but also anchor downstream industrialisation. From battery manufacturing and sustainable steel to agro-processing and green hydrogen, the continent’s solar advantage and mineral wealth can underpin a new era of climate-aligned production—provided financing, policy, and infrastructure are coordinated.
Speakers and participants will also address the growing importance of blended finance—a tool that can de-risk investments in frontier sectors while unlocking private capital. Institutions such as the Africa Finance Corporation, Afreximbank, and development finance partners will explore how this model can be scaled to support bankable projects.
For Invest Africa, The Africa Debate 2025 reaffirms its role as more than a convenor—it is a catalyst for long-term economic transformation. Its network spans over 400 member organisations, including multinationals, investors, and development institutions, offering a trusted space for deal origination and regional insights.
As Africa redefines its place in the global economic order, forums like this become essential—not simply for dialogue, but for aligning resources with the continent’s ambitions. To be part of these forward-looking conversations, register to attend and join Africa’s top leaders, investors, and innovators in London this July.
