Afreximbank aims for African youths, drive to innovation and empowerment
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Afreximbank aims for African youths, drive to innovation and empowerment
The African Export-Import Bank has intensified its push for greater empowerment opportunities for African youths, emphasising that the continent’s future and relevance in global socio-economic discussions depend on its young population.
The bank’s president, Benedict Oramah, made this assertion at the 5th edition of the youth summit organised by the Grand Africa Initiative (GAIN), a pan-African non-governmental organisation, held in Abuja.
The event was themed “Connecting Africa through Youth Entrepreneurship and Digital Innovation.”
In a statement released by the bank on Sunday, it was revealed that youth representatives from 91 countries, government officials, development partners—including the Development Bank of Africa and Afreximbank—and other stakeholders participated in the summit.
Oramah noted that Africa is home to the youngest and fastest-growing population globally, with over 60% of its inhabitants under the age of 25. He described the youth as a vibrant and dynamic group driving economic and social transformation across the continent.
“The youth population represents both a challenge and an immense opportunity for growth, innovation, and transformation in Africa. However, they face significant barriers, such as limited access to education, skills training, and entrepreneurial opportunities,” Oramah said.
He highlighted a recent survey showing that 78% of young Africans aged 18 to 24 plan to start businesses within the next five years, underscoring the need for knowledge, mentorship, and support, particularly through digital infrastructure.
Kenyan High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Isaac Parashina, also addressed the summit, highlighting Africa’s status as the youngest continent, with approximately 70% of its population under the age of 30.
He called for deliberate policies to empower youth entrepreneurship, which he described as critical to unlocking Africa’s economic potential and addressing unemployment.
Afreximbank aims for African youths, drive to innovation and empowerment.
Parashina emphasised the importance of robust digital infrastructure, stating that reliable internet, mobile technology, and digital payment systems are essential for connecting young entrepreneurs to global markets and creating scalable solutions to local challenges.
Meanwhile, Ms Chinwe Okoli, founder of GAIN, expressed pride in her organisation’s efforts to train, mentor, and empower African youths in entrepreneurship, innovation, and employability skills.
A participant, Abdullahi Musa, described the summit as an enlightening experience that significantly impacted his entrepreneurial skills, saying, “The opportunities I’ve gained from previous summits and masterclasses have sharpened my skills and influenced my engagements positively.”
