Listening to the various speeches at the World Economic Forum 2025 (#WEF25) has been a deeply thought-provoking experience. One session that left a lasting impression was the panel discussion with Vice President @KashimSM Kashim Shettima, whose powerful reflections on Africa’s challenges and boundless opportunities resonated deeply. His vision was inspiring, not just in words but in its depth. He painted a picture of hope, resilience, and a future that Africa must claim for itself.

For too long, discussions about Africa have been framed through the lens of crisis, conflict, poverty, and instability. But Shettima challenged this narrative of despair, positioning Africa instead as a continent of possibilities. A particularly striking moment was when he quoted Dele Giwa, saying, "One life lost in cold blood is as gruesome as millions lost in a pogrom." That hit hard. 

Conflicts in the Sahel, Sudan, and beyond continue to claim lives and disrupt communities. Yet, as Shettima emphasized, we must not be defined by these crises but rise above them. He made it clear that military interventions alone cannot resolve Africa’s security challenges. The real solution lies in investing in people, education, economic empowerment, and opportunities that foster a future of hope rather than despair.

Africa is home to the world’s fastest-growing population, with Nigeria projected to reach 440 million people by 2050. Shettima put this in stark terms: "This demographic can either be Africa’s greatest dividend or its biggest disaster." This was a powerful reminder that our youth are not just numbers, they are the future. If we invest in education, skills, and digital transformation, Africa’s youth will power the continent into global leadership. If we fail, we risk a generation trapped in poverty, unemployment, and instability.

One of the most inspiring takeaways was Shettima’s emphasis on technology as Africa’s greatest opportunity: "We missed the Agricultural and Industrial Revolutions. We must not miss the Digital Age." As someone passionate about data, technology, and inclusion, this struck a chord. Africa has the talent, intellect, and drive to lead in the digital economy. 

By 2035, the world will face a 65 million talent deficit, and Africa can be the solution. Our youth, if empowered with AI, data science, and emerging tech skills, can transform the global economy. 

This reminded me of the work we are doing at Deaf-In-Tech and Data-Lead Africa, bridging the skills gap, creating opportunities for marginalized communities, and ensuring that no one is left behind in this digital revolution.

VP Shettima’s speech wasn’t just about hope; it was a call to action. 
With global trade shifting, economies fragmenting, and climate change accelerating, Africa must:
✅ Strengthen intra-African trade
✅ Become self-sufficient in food, energy, and technology
✅ Leverage its vast natural and human resources

His message was clear: Africa’s future is in our hands.

#WEF25 #Davos2025