Dangote prioritises Africa’s industrialisation over personal wealth

By Ahmed Isah

Africa’s richest businessman, Aliko Dangote, says his priority is Africa’s industrialisation and economic transformation rather than the accumulation of personal wealth.

Dangote stated this during an interview while speaking on his long-term vision for the continent’s development.

He said he had already committed one-third of his wealth to his charitable foundation in support of humanitarian and development causes.

According to him, African entrepreneurs and corporations must take responsibility for developing the continent instead of depending on foreign investors.

Dangote said Africa must increase local production of goods consumed across the continent to strengthen economic independence.

He also stressed the need for stronger regional trade and investment to accelerate industrial and economic growth.

The businessman highlighted the activities of the African Renaissance group, a network of leading African business figures.

He said the group met annually in Kigali to deliberate on strategies for economic transformation and industrialisation in Africa.

Dangote expressed optimism that African-led investment and entrepreneurship would attract more global investors to the continent.

According to him, such initiatives will help drive sustainable industrial and economic growth across Africa.