Behind every successful African venture is a story of grit, adaptation, and hard-won lessons. This panel brings together founders and operators who have navigated the complexities of building and scaling businesses across the continent, sharing candid insights on what it really takes — from early-stage struggles to growth-stage challenges — to build ventures that last.

This panel explores the pivotal role of the public sector in fostering Africa's economic transformation through effective policymaking and institutional innovation. By examining lessons from across the continent, panelists will highlight how strategic governance, sound monetary policy, and strong institutions have laid the groundwork for thriving private sector growth and long-term prosperity.

In a world of shifting alliances and great power competition, Africa is no longer content to be a passive player. This panel examines how African nations and leaders are designing partnerships on their own terms — balancing relationships with traditional Western allies, China, and emerging partners — to maximize the continent's strategic interests and economic sovereignty.

Join One Acre Fund for a lunch-and-learn on their mission to make smallholder farmers across Africa more productive and prosperous. Learn about their model of providing financing, training, and market access to millions of farming families across the continent.