Davos 2025 : Africa at the heart of global priorities
From January 20 to 24, 2025, the 55th World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, under the theme "Collaboration in the Age of Intelligence," places Africa at the center of global discussions. More than 3,000 decision-makers, including around twenty African heads of state, are attending this event, which highlights the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly transforming continent.

By Insaf Boughdiri
Davos 2025 was a pivotal moment for Africa, aiming to dismantle persistent misconceptions that shape global perceptions of the continent. The event provided an opportunity to showcase Africa’s positive initiatives and emphasize that the continent is no longer merely a recipient of aid but an emerging, dynamic, and innovative economic player. Discussions in Davos addressed key topics for Africa’s future, including energy transition, sustainable development, youth empowerment, and integration into global value chains.
Africa as a driver of global growth

In this context, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa seized the opportunity to advocate for Africa’s rightful place in the global market. He underscored the central role the continent can play not only in economic growth but also in addressing global challenges such as climate change and economic inequalities.
The South African president delivered a speech emphasizing the critical importance of international cooperation in tackling global crises:
« The world must demonstrate solidarity and work together to resolve today’s crises, but we must also recognize Africa’s potential—a continent with expanding markets and abundant natural resources, » he stated.
Ramaphosa highlighted the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which he sees as a key driver of economic integration and sustainable development. According to him, cooperation between Africa and major global powers is essential for a successful energy transition and inclusive economic growth.
As South Africa assumes the G20 presidency, President Ramaphosa presented Africa’s objectives for the upcoming G20 Summit, which will take place in Johannesburg in November 2025—the first-ever G20 Summit held in Africa. He announced that South Africa’s presidency will focus on three key themes: solidarity, equality, and sustainable development.
Alongside South Africa, nations such as Botswana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Tunisia, and others actively contributed to global discussions on Africa’s economic future. This increased participation reflects the continent’s growing strategic importance as an expanding market, an innovation hub, and a key player in global geopolitical debates.
Climate Change: Africa as a global energy transition leader

Climate change, a global challenge, is particularly pressing for Africa, one of the most vulnerable continents to its effects. However, rather than resigning itself to this reality, Africa is seeking to turn the crisis into an economic opportunity, particularly through renewable energy. The Davos Forum served as a reminder that the continent, with its vast potential in solar, wind, and geothermal energy, can play a leadership role in the global energy transition.
Indeed, Africa must seize this opportunity to become a leader in clean energy, supported by global resource mobilization to develop its renewable energy capabilities.
African leaders at Davos called for massive investments to develop green infrastructure, emphasizing that sustainable energy could boost employment and attract new investments. Such initiatives could position Africa as a key growth hub in the global green economy.
While climate change remained a major concern, another critical challenge for Africa stood out: its youth. With over 60% of its population under the age of 25, the continent has one of the world’s largest talent pools. However, this potential remains largely untapped due to challenges related to education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship.
Although youth is a major asset, unlocking its potential requires significant investments in education and job creation. The challenge is not only in training and empowering young people but also in creating favorable economic conditions for their growth and success.
At Davos, the topics of education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship were highlighted as essential levers for Africa’s transformation.