United Bank for Africa has reaffirmed its commitment to driving Africa’s economic transformation through entrepreneurship, innovation, trade facilitation, and strategic global partnerships during the Africa Forward Summit 2026 held in Nairobi.
The summit, themed “Africa–France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth,” brought together Heads of State, policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders from Africa and Europe to discuss sustainable economic growth, industrialisation, and stronger cross-border collaboration.
Speaking during the summit, Emmanuel Macron underscored the importance of building a renewed relationship between Africa and France anchored on investment, innovation, 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.
Also addressing delegates at the summit, Tony Elumelu highlighted the central role of entrepreneurship and private sector-led growth in unlocking Africa’s economic potential.
“Africa’s future will not be built by aid, but by entrepreneurship, investment, and bold partnerships,” Elumelu stated.
He further emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between governments, financial institutions, development partners, and the private sector to accelerate economic transformation across the continent.
According to Elumelu, sustainable growth in Africa will depend on strategic partnerships capable of unlocking investment opportunities, supporting entrepreneurs, strengthening infrastructure, and expanding regional and international trade.
The summit also provided a strategic platform for United Bank for Africa to reinforce its position as “Africa’s Global Bank,” facilitating trade, investment, and financial integration across the continent and international markets.
With operations spanning 20 African countries and an international presence in United Kingdom, France, United States, and United Arab Emirates, UBA continues to connect African businesses to global opportunities while supporting international investors seeking access to Africa’s rapidly growing markets.
The bank noted that its trade finance solutions, cross-border payment infrastructure, and digital banking platforms are aimed at empowering businesses, SMEs, and entrepreneurs to scale operations across borders and participate more effectively in the African Continental Free Trade Area framework.
UBA also reiterated the importance of deeper cooperation between African and global institutions in advancing industrialisation, infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and digital transformation across the continent.
As discussions on Africa’s economic future continue to evolve, the bank said it remains focused on supporting the next generation of African entrepreneurs, promoting intra-African trade, and building financial ecosystems that foster innovation, sustainable growth, and long-term prosperity.
