Africa’s demographics are both wildly compelling and daunting. By 2050, 90 cities in Africa will be home to over a million people, and the continent will hold six of the world’s mega cities—those with more than 10 million residents. The continent’s median is age today is 19, and by 2050, one in four people on the planet will be African. These demographics, coupled with the urgent need for healthcare-, education- and climate-focused investments, are signals that Africa is a region of opportunity, ready for investors’ capital. From infrastructure, agriculture, supply chains and minerals to entertainment, sports, and financial technology, Africa is awash in ambition and potential.

In Africa and abroad, how can policymakers, businesses, investors and development partners best come together to seize the upside of this demographic story? What is needed to foster a vibrant private sector in Africa, where innovators can access reliable financial markets and tap into the continent’s tremendous potential? What are the most pressing priorities, to help ensure that growth is sustainable and inclusive, and that employment opportunities are unlocked in the world’s youngest and fastest-growing countries? Please join us for a private session focused on the world’s next major economic powerhouse and which will gather the Milken Institute’s Global Financial Scholars as well as inaugural members of the Milken Institute's Africa Leaders Business Council - corporate leaders committed to supporting the Milken Institute's efforts to accelerate these opportunities across Africa. The session will be followed by an invitation-only reception to highlight the launch of Milken Institute’s Africa Leaders Business Council.