UBA Reaffirms Commitment to Africa’s Economic Transformation at Nairobi Summit

United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has reiterated its commitment to supporting Africa’s economic transformation through entrepreneurship, innovation, trade facilitation and strategic global partnerships.

The bank made this known at the Africa Forward Summit 2026 held in Nairobi, where African and European leaders gathered to discuss sustainable pathways for growth, industrialisation and cross-border collaboration.

The summit, themed “Africa–France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth,” brought together heads of state, policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs and business leaders to explore ways of deepening economic cooperation between Africa and Europe.

Speaking at the event, Emmanuel Macron called for a renewed relationship between Africa and France anchored on innovation and investment. “Africa and France are equal partners with common objectives. We must build strategic autonomy through innovation, investment, and partnership,” Macron said.

Also speaking at the summit, Chairman of United Bank for Africa, Tony Elumelu, said Africa’s economic future would be driven by entrepreneurship and private sector investment rather than dependence on aid. “Africa’s future will not be built by aid, but by entrepreneurship, investment, and bold partnerships,” Elumelu stated.

He stressed that collaboration among governments, financial institutions, development partners and the private sector remains critical to unlocking investments, supporting entrepreneurs, strengthening infrastructure and expanding trade opportunities across the continent.

According to him, sustainable growth in Africa will depend on strategic partnerships capable of accelerating industrialisation and economic integration.

UBA currently operates in 20 African countries and maintains an international presence in the United Kingdom, France, United States and United Arab Emirates, connecting African businesses to global opportunities and providing international investors with access to the continent’s expanding markets.

The bank said its trade finance capabilities, cross-border payment infrastructure and digital banking platforms are designed to empower businesses, small and medium-scale enterprises and entrepreneurs to scale across borders and take advantage of opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

UBA also underscored the need for stronger partnerships between African and international institutions to drive industrialisation, infrastructure development, youth empowerment and digital transformation.

The lender noted that it remains focused on supporting the next generation of African entrepreneurs, promoting intra-African trade and building financial ecosystems that will foster sustainable growth, innovation and long-term prosperity.