Breakout 2
|
Saturday
|
11:25 am
Aldrich 110
Geopolitics

Uncharted Waters: Navigating the Delicate Balancing Act for Businesses and Investors Facing Political Risks in Africa

With over 50 distinct countries, the African continent presents a kaleidoscope of regulatory environments, political climates, and macroeconomic challenges. From abrupt policy changes to unstable governance – epitomized by the recent wave of coups across West and Central Africa – doing business in Africa requires companies and investors to adapt to shifting sands. This panel delves into the tangible, hands-on approaches to managing political risks in the African context. How do stakeholders assess and prepare for potential political risks in Africa? How can businesses leverage grassroots community relations as a buffer against high-level political volatility? How are insurance models adapting to offer genuine, affordable, and durable protection to businesses and investors? How can dialogue between the public and private sectors remain robust amidst shifting political landscapes?

In a continent that is as rich in opportunities as it is in complexities, managing political risks becomes paramount for business success. This conversation will provide insights on this key topic to discuss the tools and tactics that will pave the way for successful business endeavors, and projects developed on the continent.

Uncharted Waters: Navigating the Delicate Balancing Act for Businesses and Investors Facing Political Risks in Africa

With over 50 distinct countries, the African continent presents a kaleidoscope of regulatory environments, political climates, and macroeconomic challenges. From abrupt policy changes to unstable governance – epitomized by the recent wave of coups across West and Central Africa – doing business in Africa requires companies and investors to adapt to shifting sands. This panel delves into the tangible, hands-on approaches to managing political risks in the African context. How do stakeholders assess and prepare for potential political risks in Africa? How can businesses leverage grassroots community relations as a buffer against high-level political volatility? How are insurance models adapting to offer genuine, affordable, and durable protection to businesses and investors? How can dialogue between the public and private sectors remain robust amidst shifting political landscapes?

In a continent that is as rich in opportunities as it is in complexities, managing political risks becomes paramount for business success. This conversation will provide insights on this key topic to discuss the tools and tactics that will pave the way for successful business endeavors, and projects developed on the continent.

America/New_York
Feb 17, 2024 11:25 AM
Aldrich 110

Other Sessions

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Breakout 2
Saturday
|
11:25 am
Aldrich 112
Unleashing Africa's Entertainment Soft Power on the World Stage
How Africa can harness the increasing soft power of its entertainment industry to effectively compete in the global arena
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Unleashing Africa's Entertainment Soft Power on the World Stage

This panel will explore how Africa can harness the increasing soft power of its entertainment industry to effectively compete in the global arena. With the continent's vibrant music, film, and cultural offerings are gaining international recognition, it's essential to understand the potential for economic growth and global influence. Discover the strategies, challenges, and opportunities as we delve into the role of African entertainment in enhancing the continent's global competitiveness, fostering economic development, and shaping perceptions on the world stage. Join us to unravel the untapped potential of Africa's entertainment soft power and its significance in the era of global competition.

America/New_York
Feb 17, 2024 11:25 AM
Aldrich 112
More Info
Keynotes
Saturday
|
5:00 pm
Klarman Hall
Redefining the African Narrative
Cultural narratives and the interplay between social development and economic progress in African countries
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Redefining the African Narrative

This session is dedicated to exploring the intricate social fabric of African nations and their influence on the global stage. We'll delve into topics such as innovation, cultural influence, economic development, and the challenges and opportunities faced by African countries in today's interconnected world and explore subjects like gender equality, cultural narratives, and the interplay between social development and economic progress in African countries. This is a unique opportunity to gain insights from one of the most articulate voices on African development and global competitiveness.

America/New_York
Feb 17, 2024 5:00 PM
Klarman Hall
More Info
Breakout 2
Saturday
|
11:25 am
Aldrich 108
Growing Africa's SME sector through enterpreneurship through acquisition (ETA)
Unlocking value, attracting talent, and accelerating the growth and development of SMEs in Africa through ETA
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Growing Africa's SME sector through enterpreneurship through acquisition (ETA)

Although Entrepreneurship through Acquisition (ETA)— where entrepreneurs search for and acquire stable, cash-flow positive businesses to grow them over time—is growing in popularity across North America, few “search funds” have been established in Africa. Indeed, there has been limited data to support the case for investing in African search funds and the benefits of this novel asset class. 

Still, ETA remains uniquely positioned to unlock value, attract talent, and accelerate the growth and development of SMEs—particularly family businesses—across the continent. This panel will focus on three key questions: 

(1) Is Africa ripe for the growth of search funds? 

(2) How can the traditional search fund model be adapted to work in/for the African context? 

(3) What other models can we leverage to see more African ETAs? 

(4) Share some success stories and what we can learn from them.

America/New_York
Feb 17, 2024 11:25 AM
Aldrich 108