The Africa Social Impact Summit 2023, held in Lagos, brought together voices from the United Nations and Lagos state, both advocating for the pivotal role of the private sector in steering positive transformations across the African continent.
Matthias Schmale, the United Nations Resident & Humanitarian Coordinator, articulated the potential of Africa’s private sector as a powerful force for change. Schmale urged CEOs and investors to infuse sustainability into their decision-making processes and harmonize their strategies with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He placed a special emphasis on the significance of fostering a diverse workforce, particularly by increasing the employment of qualified women. This not only contributes to gender equality but also stands as a fundamental step toward poverty alleviation, sustainable development, and effective governance.
Schmale underscored the value of forging partnerships between the public and private sectors. Such collaborations, he argued, harness the respective strengths and capabilities of both realms, thereby expediting the execution and amplification of major development endeavors. Schmale urged private investments to transcend mere profit motives and consider the profound social impact they could generate. He endorsed a comprehensive approach that encompasses environmental consciousness, societal well-being, and responsible governance.
Obafemi Hamzat, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, hailed the burgeoning reputation of Lagos as a technology hub in Africa. He expressed optimism about the summit’s potential to furnish solutions to Africa’s multifaceted challenges and expedite the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Co-convener of the summit, Mrs. Olapeju Ibekwe, who is also the CEO of Sterling One Foundation, underscored the event’s aim of creating a platform for private sector engagement. The summit sought to empower investors to craft and expand market-driven solutions, channeling more impact investments into Africa to advance the cause of the SDGs. The event’s agenda encompassed discussions on diverse subjects, ranging from climate action and healthcare to education, agriculture, renewable energy, and circular economy strategies.
In essence, the Africa Social Impact Summit 2023 spotlighted the potential of the private sector as a transformative agent in Africa’s journey. The event placed strong emphasis on aligning business practices with sustainability objectives and the UN SDGs. It aimed to foster synergistic partnerships between public and private entities, stimulate purposeful investments, and accelerate the trajectory towards a more sustainable and prosperous future for the African continent.
