
By Bright Philip Donkor
Sidig Faroug El Toum, CEO of Africa Prosperity Network (APN), has said that Day 2 of the Africa Prosperity Dialogue 2025 marks another crucial step in advancing the continent’s economic transformation.
In his welcome address during the Day Two of the APD 2025 at the Accra International Conference on Friday 31th January, he noted that the discussions from the previous day had set a strong foundation for accelerating Africa’s development through infrastructure investments and improved logistics for free movement. He explained that the theme for this year, “Delivering Africa’s Single Market through Infrastructure: Invest. Connect. Integrate,” underscored the continent’s collective responsibility in realizing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
He said that Africa’s political and business leaders must work together to create the world’s largest single market by leveraging the continent’s resources, diversity, and innovation. He noted that achieving this vision requires strategic investments in key infrastructure sectors to support economic integration. He explained that today’s discussions will focus on identifying opportunities and challenges in infrastructure development that will shape Africa’s economic future.
Key Sessions on Infrastructure and Economic Growth
Sidig Faroug El Toum said that the first session of the day, “Leveraging Digital Infrastructure, Innovation, and Technology to Connect Africa,” will highlight the role of digital transformation in strengthening economic ties across the continent. He noted that technology serves as a crucial bridge in Africa’s integration, enabling businesses and industries to connect and thrive in a rapidly changing global market. He explained that digital solutions are vital for enhancing trade, fostering connectivity, and driving inclusive economic growth.
He said that the second session, “Delivering Affordable, Accessible, and Sustainable Energy Solutions for Africa,” will explore strategies for ensuring reliable energy access across the continent. He noted that energy was a key driver of economic development, and without affordable and sustainable power, Africa’s industries and communities cannot reach their full potential. Sidig Faroug El Toum explained that today’s discussions will focus on innovative investment models and policy frameworks that can help scale up energy solutions.
The APN CEO said that the third session, “The Role of Africa’s Infrastructural Development Partners in Building the Single Market,” will emphasize the importance of collaboration in infrastructure development. He noted that Africa must work with global and regional development partners to unlock investment opportunities and drive sustainable growth. Sidig Faroug El Toum explained that strong partnerships will ensure that infrastructure projects align with the continent’s long-term economic objectives.
He said that the fourth session, “Building the Africa We Want With Social Infrastructure,” will focus on the importance of education, healthcare, creative industries, and tourism in Africa’s economic progress. He noted that social infrastructure is just as critical as physical infrastructure in achieving sustainable development. He explained that investing in human capital is essential to building a resilient and prosperous Africa.