Citi News Exclusive: IFC unpacks economic growth priorities as momentum builds for 2025 Africa CEO Forum

Africa is facing challenges as global economic instability grows. The private sector has been seen as a key growth driver. There is now an urgent need for local solutions. This makes the 2025 Africa CEO Forum very timely.

The Forum will take place on May 12–13 in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. Its theme is “Can a new deal between state and private sector deliver the continent a winning hand?” Thousands of leaders from business, finance, and policymaking will attend. Discussions will focus on agricultural self-sufficiency, financial innovation, digital acceleration, and industrial capacity.

Citi News spoke with Dahlia Khalifa, IFC Regional Director for Central Africa and Anglophone West Africa. She has worked at the International Finance Corporation (IFC) since 2004. Khalifa focuses on fostering private sector growth and job creation in the region.

Citi News [CN]: Good day, Dahlia. Thank you for your time today.

Dahlia Khalifa [DK]: Good day! Thank you for having me. Preparations are underway for the Forum. We expect over 2,000 attendees in Abidjan on May 12–13. This year’s theme aligns with our mission at IFC.

CN: What has the business climate been like recently?

DK: The business climate is complex but full of opportunities. Inflation and global disruptions pose challenges but also spark entrepreneurial energy. We see growing investor interest in digital transformation and renewable energy.

In the last fiscal year, IFC committed $5.3 billion across 43 projects—a 54% increase from before.

CN: Is IFC concerned about recent U.S. export tariffs? How will it support Ghana?

DK: Tariffs can disrupt economic flows but do not change our mission. We aim to build a productive private sector that creates jobs. Strengthening intra-African supply chains is crucial to reduce reliance on external markets.

In Ghana, we support local industries and trade-enabling infrastructure development.

CN: With declining international aid, how should African leaders respond?

DK: As aid declines, Africa must shift toward self-sustained growth focused on job creation. Our 2030 Agenda aims to mobilize private capital to create better jobs—key for economic transformation.

African leaders must foster conditions for private sector-led growth through partnerships and innovation.

CN: What projections exist for IFC's private equity financing in Africa?

DK: Last year, we mobilized $56 billion globally for private companies; this year looks promising too. It's about quality impact—not just numbers—backing ventures that create jobs sustainably.

Participants should bring well-designed projects with clear governance to leverage this support effectively.

CN: How have previous Forums impacted intra-African trade?

DK: Previous Forums have boosted intra-African trade by facilitating dialogue among leaders. They help identify barriers to trade and promote investment opportunities.

This year's Forum aims to enhance trade infrastructure and support SMEs accessing new markets.

CN: How does the Forum address barriers like limited access to investment opportunities?

DK: The Forum connects business leaders to share insights and explore investments. Past Forums created funds that improved access to capital for SMEs while providing market information essential for decision-making.

It fosters collaboration among diverse stakeholders to overcome challenges hindering business growth.

CN: Which sectors offer high potential for job creation in Africa?

DK: Sectors like agribusiness and manufacturing show great promise due to unmet needs. Value addition in agriculture can lift incomes while expanding local manufacturing creates jobs—especially for youth.

The private sector must invest inclusively while co-developing solutions with governments.

CN: What lies ahead after the 2025 CEO Forum?

DK: I foresee a transformative continent with an empowered, tech-savvy private sector at its core. The next big shift involves mainstreaming green innovations alongside deeper regional integration—leading to more inclusive business models that deliver long-term impact.

The Forum serves as a launchpad for future developments in Africa's economy.

Thank you again, Dahlia Khalifa! It was great speaking with you today.

Thank you! I look forward to seeing you in Abidjan soon.

*This interview was conducted by Nii Larte Lartey.*