UBA advances Africa's growth agenda at Nairobi summit

United Bank for Africa Plc reiterated its dedication to Africa’s economic transformation through entrepreneurship, innovation, trade facilitation and strategic global partnerships at the Africa Forward Summit 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya.

The summit, themed “Africa–France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth,” gathered heads of state, policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs and business leaders from Africa and Europe to discuss sustainable pathways to economic growth, industrialisation and deeper cross‑border cooperation.

A statement released by the bank on Tuesday noted that French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking at the summit, called for a renewed Africa‑France partnership built on innovation, investment and shared prosperity.

“Africa and France are equal partners with common objectives. We must build strategic autonomy through innovation, investment, and partnership,” President Macron said.

Speaking at the event, UBA Group Chairman Tony Elumelu highlighted entrepreneurship and private‑sector‑led development as the main drivers of Africa’s economic transformation. “Africa’s future will not be built by aid, but by entrepreneurship, investment, and bold partnerships,” Elumelu asserted.

He added that stronger collaboration among governments, financial institutions, development partners and the private sector is essential to unlock Africa’s economic potential. According to him, sustained growth will hinge on partnerships that expand investment, support entrepreneurs, strengthen infrastructure and boost trade across the continent.

The summit also provided UBA Plc an opportunity to reinforce its role as Africa’s Global Bank and a key facilitator of trade, investment and economic integration.

Operating in 20 African countries and maintaining a presence in the United Kingdom, France, the United States and the United Arab Emirates, UBA said it continues to link African businesses with global opportunities while helping international investors access African markets.

The bank highlighted that its banking solutions, trade‑finance services, cross‑border payment systems and digital platforms are designed to support SMEs, entrepreneurs and corporations seeking to expand across borders, especially within the African Continental Free Trade Area framework.

UBA also reiterated the need for stronger collaboration between African and international institutions to accelerate industrialisation, infrastructure development, youth empowerment and digital transformation across the continent.

As discussions on Africa’s economic future continue, the bank affirmed its focus on supporting entrepreneurs, expanding intra‑African trade and building financial systems that promote innovation and long‑term sustainable growth.