The Africa CEO Forum—the largest, high-level annual gathering dedicated to strengthening Africa’s private sector—this year explored pathways to growth for Africa amid multiple global economic challenges.

Over two days in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, around 2,200 delegates, including African presidents and prime ministers, senior members of Africa’s private sector, and thought leaders, discussed and debated topics ranging from energy and food security, artificial intelligence, gender equality in the workplace, and climate change.

As co-hosts of the event, IFC was represented by Managing Director Makhtar Diop, alongside senior Directors, Managers and Vice Presidents from Africa and other regions. In his opening remarks, Diop outlined the challenges Africa faces, and provided insight into solutions and opportunities, including in Africa’s agribusiness sector, its increasingly rapid uptake of digital technology, and in its young population.

The main theme of this year’s forum was: From 300 to 3000: How to deliver the next generation of African champions. The theme highlighted the fact that Africa is home to 300 companies with a turnover exceeding $1 billion—a respectable number but far fewer than other parts of the world.

Discussions focused on how Africa’s public and private sectors can foster high-performing African multinationals through government strategies, partnerships and regional value chains.

IFC has co-hosted the Africa CEO Forum since 2018, underscoring its commitment to supporting the private sector to build a better, greener, and more inclusive future for Africa.