Columbia University Hosts Its 13th African Economic Forum

Scheduled to take place April 2, 2016 under the theme \”A Continent Connecting: Solutions from Within,\” this year’s conference will build upon last year’s theme of \”Build Africa Beyond Potential,\”  providing an opportunity for fresh views and further discussions about African innovations to African problems. The solutions to many problems are rooted in bridging gaps across and within Africa through inclusive growth, development of vital infrastructure, expanding access to capital markets, and incorporation of youth population into the economic activities on the continent.

The theme of connectivity draws not only upon the centrality of increasing regional, cross-generational, and economic integration to Africa’s development, but also on the means of connection such as technology, infrastructure, and coordination of political and financial institutions driving the socio-economic development in Africa. Technology is facilitating solutions that have ‘leapfrogged’ conventional development patterns, led by creativity, innovation and opportunity for African entrepreneurship; from mobile money to other technology led solutions. We aim to showcase the ingenuity of African innovation, and discuss ways of harnessing and consolidating these gains to continue transformation of sectors across Africa.

The African Economic Forum has grown to be the largest Africa-focused event at Columbia University. It provides an unparalleled opportunity for participants to engage with peers and enhance their profiles among an array of attendees that include students, faculty, alumni, and professionals. This year\’s Forum brings together current and future business leaders and policy makers with keen interest in Africa in a dialogue of moving the narrative in a direction not only realistic, but also inclusive.

Fulton Shiundu
AEF 2016 Co-Chair
African Business Club