Ayeni Adekunle calls for action-oriented dialogue to drive Africa’s growth at UNGA80

Ayeni Adekunle, Founder and CEO of Black House Media (BHM), has called for more practical and action-oriented conversations about Africa’s development opportunities.

Speaking during a panel on “Africa’s Role in the Future of Technology, Media, AI & Finance” at the Africa Breakfast Conversations (ABC) side event of UNGA80, Ayeni stressed the need to turn ideas into initiatives that deliver measurable impact.

“This gathering is an opportunity to have the right conversations about our continent – the opportunities and the challenges. We’re providing guests with a space where conversations can flow freely, turning ideas into impactful initiatives that foster sustainable growth across Africa,” Ayeni said.

The panel, moderated by Wendu Nwakanma of Goldman Sachs, also featured Iyin Aboyeji, Founding Partner at Future Africa, and Kayode Akintemi, Managing Director of News Central TV. Discussions highlighted how Africa’s growing technology and creative ecosystems are shaping global industries, from artificial intelligence to fintech and media.

Ayeni noted that the key to driving long-term transformation lies in partnerships that bridge private sector innovation, public policy, and diaspora support. “The world is paying attention, but Africa must own its narrative and chart its own course,” he added.

Other key speakers during the event included: Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, Chairman of Access Holdings, Chairman of Coronation Group, Chairman of the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, and member of the Kings Trust Africa Advisory Board; Claudine Moore, Managing Director, Africa, Allison Worldwide; Shalom Ndiku, Director of Policy, Food4Education; H.E. Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Sierra Leone, Geoffrey Kasangaki, CEO, Asante Africa Foundation; Abeiku Greene, Outgoing Executive Director, Junior Achievement Ghana; and Ben Ovio, Chief Responsibility Executive, ENDIP International.

The ABC event, hosted by Allison Worldwide in partnership with The King’s Trust Group and BHM, underscored the continent’s untapped potential. According to UNCTAD, foreign direct investment flows to Africa stood at $50 billion in 2024, representing 3.7% of global FDI and signalling continued investor confidence.

By centring youth, innovation, and sustainable development, ABC positioned Africa as not only a beneficiary but also a driver of global progress.