by AKANI CHAUKE
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – AFRICA’S role as a global economic powerhouse was underscored this week at the 12th annual CEO Dialogue on Southern Africa, held on the sidelines of the G20 Summit.
The two-day event convened more than 150 CEOs, policymakers, development finance leaders, and thought leaders to explore Africa’s central place in the world’s economic future.
Organised by the Italian think tank, The European House Ambrosetti (TEHA), the dialogue highlighted the importance of deepening Africa-Europe partnerships while empowering African agency in shaping global development agendas.
Discussions focused on closing infrastructure gaps, investing in education and healthcare, and fostering trade and business networks to unlock Africa’s vast potential.
Pietro Mininni, TEHA Africa CEO, emphasised that cooperation between African and Italian business leaders is vital to advancing shared interests and navigating a fragmented global order.
“Strengthening dialogue and cooperation between Africa and Italy is essential to advance shared interests and address the challenges of an increasingly fragmented global order. Deepening economic and trade partnerships, and building high-level relationships between key stakeholders, will be critical to driving meaningful change,” Mininni said.
Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, Gauteng MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, echoed these sentiments, calling for greater African inclusion in global governance.
“Global prosperity cannot endure without African inclusion, challenges cannot be solved without African agency, and global governance cannot be complete without African leadership,” Ramokgopa told delegates.
Italian trade officials highlighted the continent’s growing economic importance. Matteo Zoppas, President of the Italian Trade Agency, revealed that Africa accounted for €70 billion of Italy’s €620 billion exports in 2025, noting the need to capitalise on the continent’s demographic and market potential.
The CEO Dialogue culminated with the signing of the CEO Manifesto on the Future of African Business, reinforcing a Pan-African approach to sustainable development, inclusive growth, and regional cooperation.
Observers said the event not only positioned Africa as a key partner in global economic decision-making but also signalled that African-led solutions and partnerships will shape the continent’s business and trade trajectory for decades to come.
– CAJ News