Dr. Bawumia to keynote 2025 Cambridge Africa Business Conference, focusing on innovation, leadership, and Africa’s global economic influence.

The Cambridge Africa Business Network (CABN) has announced that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the former Vice President of Ghana, will headline the 2025 Cambridge Africa Business Conference (CABC) as a keynote speaker. The landmark 10th edition of the conference will take place on Saturday, 17th May 2025, at the Cambridge Judge Business School in the United Kingdom.

A renowned economist and digital transformation leader, Dr. Bawumia is expected to deliver a compelling address on “Rethinking Leadership, Innovation, and Inclusion for the Next Generation.” His tenure in Ghana saw the rollout of transformative digital policies that strengthened the country’s macroeconomic framework, expanded financial inclusion, and laid foundations for Fourth Industrial Revolution readiness.

Spotlight on Africa’s Global Potential

Themed “Africa Tomorrow: Driving Innovation, Growth, and Global Influence,” this year’s conference brings together over 200 global delegates, including MBA students, founders, investors, policymakers, and thought leaders from across Africa and its diaspora. The dialogue will center around three key questions:

How can Africa lead in technology, entrepreneurship, and investment?
What are the untapped opportunities shaping the continent’s economic future?
How do we forge stronger global partnerships to drive sustainable impact?

With growing momentum in digital economies, creative industries, and financial ecosystems across the continent, the conference seeks to challenge existing narratives and highlight African-built solutions for global markets.

Keynote and Panel Speakers from Across Africa’s Leadership Landscape

Joining Dr. Bawumia are fellow keynote speakers:

Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim, Nigerian Senator and CEO of Global Fleet Group
Emeka Emuwa, Chairman, Africa Finance Corporation

Other notable speakers include:

Funke Opeke, Founder & CEO, MainOne (Equinix)
Chido Munyati, Director & Head of Africa, World Economic Forum
Wale Adeosun, Founder & CEO, Kuramo Capital
Ting Ting Peng, Chief Strategy & Impact Officer, Moove
Wale Davies, Head of A&R for Africa, Sony Music Publishing
Linda Ayoola, Global Head of Music, Platoon (Apple Music)
Farouk Khailann, Executive Vice Chairman, Turkiye Africa Trade & Investment Council

Panels and fireside chats will explore diverse sectors such as infrastructure, governance, technology, finance, fashion, music, and film—providing holistic insight into building globally recognized African ventures.

Reimagining Africa’s Role in a Rapidly Changing World

Jeremiah Nnadi, Chair of the 2025 Conference, emphasized the importance of truth-telling and vision in shaping Africa’s narrative.

“This year’s conference focuses on how Africa can build for the world – a world that is rapidly changing and highly uncertain. At a time like this, we need wisdom and inspiration. That’s why we must share the true, uncut stories of those who have built, are building, and will build our continent’s future,” he said.

CABN President Chidinma Chukwuma added that the 2025 edition stands out for its clarity of mission.

“We’re not just imagining Africa’s future—we’re convening the people building it. From fintech disruptors to cultural innovators, our speakers reflect the full spectrum of African excellence.”

Cambridge Experience and Global Networking Opportunities

Beyond the talks and panel sessions, attendees will have the opportunity to experience the historic University of Cambridge through curated networking events. The conference will close with a gala dinner and after-party hosted at one of Cambridge’s iconic colleges—fostering deeper connections among participants shaping Africa’s future.

The Cambridge Africa Business Network (CABN), an alumni and student-led organization within the Cambridge Judge Business School, continues to foster dialogue on business in Africa through events, thought leadership, and professional networking. Its flagship annual conference has grown into a critical platform for Africa-focused conversations.