By Muhammad Amaan
The Africa Investment Leaders (AIL), has announced conception of Africa Investment Leaders Forum and Awards aimed at attracting investment into the continent and fostering economic growth.
Mr Kudzai Mukuku, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of AIL stated this during a hybrid press conference on Monday in Harare, said that the forum would contribute significantly to the realisation of African Union’s Agenda 2063.
According to him, the forum is in line with the agenda to foster a continent that is economically vibrant, socially inclusive and technologically advanced.
He said that the three-day event would bring together investors, influential leaders, CEOs, industry experts, policymakers, government officials and other key stakeholders from Africa and other parts of the world.
Mr Mukuku added that the event scheduled for June 26-28, 2024, at Rainbow Towers Hotel, Harare, would foster collaborations, facilitate knowledge sharing, and honour exemplary contributions in the area of investment.
He said that, by highlighting Africa’s economic opportunities and investment climate, increased interest and participation from both local, regional and international investors would be created, thereby contributing to Africa’s economic growth and development.
“During these three days, participants will have the opportunity to engage in various sub-forums that cover a wide range of topics relevant to investment in Africa.
“These discussions will be enriched by the diverse range of speakers from around the world, bringing with them their invaluable experiences and insights.
“This forum will be a melting pot of ideas, aiming to establish Africa as a leading investment destination,” he said.
According to Mukuku, top investors who have invested significantly in Africa since year 2000 will be recognised via ‘The Champions List’.
“We created The Champions List so that so no one with Africa at heart is left out, and the list will be released in five-year batches; for example, year 2000 to 2005, year 2006 to 2010, up to 2020.
“In addition to the intellectual exchange, the Africa Investment Leaders Forum and Awards will feature an exhibition,” he said.
He added that the exhibition would provide a platform for organisations, businesses and entrepreneurs to showcase their innovations, projects and investment opportunities.
“It will be an excellent opportunity for networking and exploring potential partnerships with investors.
“Furthermore, as a buildup to the main event, we will be hosting stakeholder briefs in Zimbabwe, South Africa, Nigeria and Morocco as a precursor to the main event.
“By engaging stakeholders across multiple countries, we aim to ensure the inclusivity and diversity of perspectives at the forum,” he said.
He urged investors and other stakeholders to join the forum to drive innovation, create lasting partnerships and pave way for a prosperous Africa.
The AIL Chief of Communications, Mr Farai Muvuti, said that the forum’s primary goal was to foster collaborations and dialogues among key stakeholders in the investment landscape.
He said that such dialogues and collaborations would facilitate sustainable economic growth and development in Africa.
Muvuti said that the event’s ultimate vision was to unleash untapped potential within Africa and drive innovation, job creation and socio-economic advancement.
“By bringing together decision makers and influencers, we hope to stimulate cross-border investments, enhance infrastructure development and empower local industries.
“Together, we can build a legacy of prosperity that resonates across borders, creating a brighter and more sustainable future for generations to come,” he said.
In her remarks, Ms Rumbidzai Takawira, Events Director of AIL, said that the Africa Wealth Forum would bring together thought leaders, economists and experts to discuss strategies for wealth creation, sustainable growth and investment opportunities in Africa.
She added that a part of the forum would be a presidential symposium exclusively designed for African heads of state to create a platform for high-level discussions on critical investment opportunities and challenges facing Africa.
According to her, deliberations in this exclusive setting will focus on creating investor-friendly environments, promoting sustainable economic growth and attracting foreign investment.
“The presidential symposium will serve as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue, enabling presidents to share their insights and collectively drive the continent towards a brighter, prosperous future.
“There would also be an awards ceremony to recognise investors who have excelled in various sectors, with each category boasting the prestigious award title of ‘Investor of the Year.’
“The categories include oil and mining, agriculture, media and entertainment, real estate and construction, manufacturing, technology, finance, tourism and hospitality, transport and healthcare.
“Others include, diaspora investor of the year, friends of Africa and social responsibility, and we shall also be giving awards to governments with the best investor friendly policies,” she said.
