Los Angeles, 27 April 2015
President Kagame addressed the Milken Institute Global Conference panel on Africa’s future. Moderated by CNBC Editor in Chief, Brownyn Nielsen and titled “Beyond the Headlines: Global Leaders Explore Africa’s Future,” the discussion included Scott Minerd, Chairman of Investments and Global Chief Investment Officer of Guggenheim Partners, Patrice Motsepe, founder and executive chairman of African Rainbow Minerals and Hon. Tony Blair.
With Africa as home to the fastest growing economies in the world, President Kagame urged African countries to begin by investing in each other as the key to Africa continuous economic growth:
“We are missing an opportunity in our own countries: intra-African trade and investment. If we increase intra-African trade it has the capacity of attracting more of the foreign direct investment we want.”
President Kagame added that Africa’s future should be centered on regional integration:
“Regional economic groups work better for economies and provide more coherent and beneficial markets. That is why in East Africa, we work together. We identify areas of needs, address the problems as well as attract investments.“
“This does not remove responsibility from individual countries to be able to create stability within their own borders and create a sense of security for investors. “ President Kagame added.
President Kagame concluded by encouraging political will to create business friendly environments that lead to partnerships that benefit both investors and the countries in which they invest.
The panel discussion also marked the launch of the Africa Business Fellowship that aims to foster business relationships between Africa and the United States. The fellowship launched at the Milken Institute in partnership with Econet, the African Leadership Network and Management Leadership for Tomorrow Network will offer 15 successful American business leaders a fellowship to partner with African companies.
For pictures of President Kagame at the Milken Institute Global Conference: www.flickr.com/paulkagame
To watch the panel on “Beyond the Headlines: Global Leaders Explore Africa’s Future”: www.milkeninstitute.org/events/conferences/global-conference/global-conference-2015/panel-detail/5496