Bawumia: Africa must build systems to scale its innovations

Former Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, spoke about Africa's potential. He believes the continent's main challenge is not a lack of ideas. Instead, it is the absence of strong systems to support these ideas.

Dr. Bawumia delivered a keynote address at the Cambridge Africa Business Conference on May 17, 2025. The theme was "Africa’s Digital Transformation: Building Resilient Economies Through Innovation." He stated, “Africa does not lack innovation. We lack systems that scale it.”

He emphasized that Africa has creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. However, growth is hindered by weak infrastructure and limited access to financing. Trust in institutions is also lacking.

Dr. Bawumia envisions a future where African innovations thrive globally. He described scenarios like a tech start-up in Nairobi serving clients in São Paulo. He also mentioned a shea butter cooperative in Tamale selling to consumers in Tokyo using blockchain technology.

He argued that African innovations should be seen as standard practice, not exceptions. “Our innovations should not be viewed as exceptions but as the norm,” he said.

He urged African governments and stakeholders to focus on building resilient systems and ecosystems. This strategic approach would help nurture innovation and unlock Africa’s economic potential fully.