The Pan African Business Forum (PABF) has recently announced a strategic reshaping of its executive management team through three pivotal appointments designed to bolster its mission of driving socio-economic development across Africa. These appointments took place during the Forum’s Annual General Board Meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, held from August 27 to 29, 2024. Under the proposal of PABF Chairman Dr. Ladislas Prosper Agbesi, the Executive Committee unanimously appointed Pierre Marcel Bonnard as the new Vice President for New Technology. His role will involve direct reporting to the Board of Executives, showcasing the Forum’s commitment to innovation and technological advancement within the continent’s business landscape.
In addition to Mr. Bonnard, His Excellency Gabriel Mbaga Obiang Lima has been appointed Chairman of the newly established Energy and Oil & Gas Infrastructure Committee. This committee’s purpose is to align with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, emphasizing the critical importance of energy resources to the continent’s future. The Board has recognized Mr. Lima’s invaluable contributions to the sector, which underscores the PABF’s dedication to appointing individuals who possess deep expertise and experience in fundamental areas of Africa’s economic framework. Like Bonnard, Mr. Lima will report to the Board through the Chairman and other executives, ensuring coordinated efforts towards achieving the Forum’s objectives in energy infrastructure.
The third key appointment is Mr. Abubakar Malami, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, who will lead the Judicial Review and Transformation of Africa Committee. This committee has been established to enhance Africa’s judicial and legal systems, aligning with the broader goals of Agenda 2063. Mr. Malami’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s legal framework have been acknowledged by the Board, affirming PABF’s strategy of empowering leaders who can foster institutional integrity and governance across the continent. Each appointee has been positioned for an initial term of two years, with the potential for renewal based on their performance, emphasizing a results-oriented approach within the PABF.
At the heart of PABF’s mission is the pursuit of an environment conducive to business both for local and international investors while simultaneously supporting host nations. The Forum actively engages in lobbying efforts to create a more favorable operating landscape that enables sustainable economic growth. Additionally, PABF plays a critical role in securing financing for various projects that have been identified as essential for Africa’s development. This dedication is facilitated through the PABF’s Africa Investment Fund, which aims to ensure efficient implementation of projects that will positively affect communities throughout the continent.
The PABF envisions empowering current and future generations of Africans through innovative policy reforms and skill development initiatives, underpinned by the support of the business community. This comprehensive approach involves public-private partnerships, aligning with their goal of attracting direct capital investments that yield tangible benefits for African nations and their peoples. By focusing on growth initiatives and social responsibility, PABF aspires to foster an environment where socio-economic development occurs in synergy with community advancement, thereby setting a strong foundation for progress and stability.
As a non-profit entity, PABF invites membership from individuals both within Africa and among the diaspora, as well as from non-Africans who share its vision. The Forum’s inclusive membership strategy is aimed at uniting various stakeholders who are committed to the acceleration of Africa’s socio-economic development. By emphasizing the importance of comprehensive participation, PABF seeks to create an ecosystem that facilitates both indigenous and foreign capital infusion into economic activities benefiting diverse groups across the continent, ultimately contributing to improved governance and enhanced quality of life for African communities.
