The innovative Made In Africa Foundation’s principle of bringing together the continent’s skillsets to co-operate towards economic progress bore significant fruit with the signing of the Marrakech Undertaking by the Olusegun Obasanjo Foundation – a recognition of both foundations’ mutual obligations to assist in the development of the continent, focusing on transformational infrastructure projects.
The Made in Africa Foundation was created by Ozwald Boateng OBE, and Atlantic Energy CEO and philanthropist Kola Aluko solely to address the slow progress on infrastructure projects in Africa, despite political consensus. The Foundation is raising funds in Africa and abroad to produce the feasibility studies that can unlock the billions in capital already raised, but waiting for robust and bankable projects.
President Olusegun Obasanjo established the Olusegun Obasanjo Foundation, a UK-based charity, with the mission to improve human security across Africa through initiatives in agriculture, promotion of youth empowerment and employment, support for girls’ education, and combating non-communicable diseases by bringing together government, non-governmental organizations and private citizens to confront these issues.
In addition to the signing of the Understanding, the Made in Africa Foundation created a stunning celebration of African progress around the IC Publications’ African Bankers Awards, with an eclectic fashion show and electrifying musical performances by John Legend and Youssou N’Dour, with Yasiin Bey (formerly Mos Def) and Akon as DJs. The event was attended by 400 leaders of the world’s banking and investment community, and further VIPs and celebrity supporters, including Mo Ibrahim, Cecilia Sarkozy, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, Isaiah Washington, South African Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan, and Scott Aitken (co-CEO,Atlantic Energy).
Ozwald Boateng commented:
“This is a very exciting meeting of minds. When Africans come together, they’re able to achieve amazing ambitions. Together, our Foundations will be able to promote growth and solutions for youth employment, small and medium enterprise, and regional champions, throughout Africa.”
Anne Welsh, Chair of the Olusegun Obasanjo Foundation, commented:
“Africa needs infrastructure to create employment opportunities for the large population of youths on the continent. The OOF is indeed proud to be a partner in an initiative that has the potential to shift many young people out of poverty and give them a sense of purpose for the future. Success will mean the continent can benefit for generations to come.”
John Legend encouraged the guests:
“We know there are a lot more big things to come in Africa, and we’re excited to celebrate this Made in Africa initiative. I’m excited because I believe there’s so much potential.”
Ozwald Boateng’s Foundation shows a new way in Marrakech, with co-operation agreement, and hosting spectacular gala.
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