Elumelu to Global Leaders: Africa's Youth Need Jobs, Not Handouts, Power Infrastructure

Africa's young population requires tangible opportunities like jobs, electricity, and infrastructure rather than aid to realize its economic potential, stated Tony Elumelu, Founder and Group Chairman of Heirs Holdings. Addressing global leaders at the 2026 Africa Forward Summit, convened by Kenyan President William Ruto and French President Emmanuel Macron, Elumelu advocated for partnerships built on equality and shared value.

Elumelu emphasized that strategic investments in infrastructure and power, driven by the private sector, are crucial for Africa's development. "We welcome true partnership, partnerships of substance and based on equity where Africans and African solutions catalyse Africa’s future," he said. Reliable electricity and critical infrastructure are fundamental for industrialization, job creation, and poverty reduction across the continent.

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We welcome true partnership, partnerships of substance and based on equity where Africans and African solutions catalyse Africa’s future.

Highlighting Africa's demographic advantage, with over 65% of its population under 35, Elumelu stressed the priority should be creating opportunities. "Our youth do not need handouts; they need jobs, they need improved access to electricity, they need to join the internet," he stated, urging for enablement and infrastructure to help young Africans reach their potential.

Elumelu also pointed to the impact of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which has provided entrepreneurship training to 2.5 million young Africans and funded over 27,000 entrepreneurs. He encouraged African nations to engage with credible international partners committed to long-term growth, noting Africa as the fastest-growing region globally.

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Our youth do not need handouts; they need jobs, they need improved access to electricity, they need to join the internet.