The 2024 Africa Roundtable on Private Sector Solutions to Internal Displacement, held in Lagos, served as a crucial platform for discussing the escalating crisis of internal displacement across the African continent. Organized by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in collaboration with the Nigerian government, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the event brought together key stakeholders from diverse sectors, including government, private enterprise, and civil society, to explore innovative and collaborative solutions to this pressing humanitarian challenge. A central theme of the roundtable was the critical role of the private sector in creating sustainable pathways for internally displaced persons (IDPs) to achieve self-reliance and reintegrate into society. TGI Group, a prominent agricultural and industrial conglomerate, played a significant role in advocating for increased private sector engagement and showcasing its own initiatives aimed at empowering displaced communities.
Farouk Gumel, Vice Chairman of TGI Group, underscored the importance of inclusion as a fundamental principle for sustainable development and emphasized the private sector’s responsibility in fostering self-reliance and dignity for IDPs. He articulated TGI Group’s commitment to bridging the gap between displaced populations and long-term opportunities by integrating them into the company’s agricultural and industrial value chains. This approach represents a shift from traditional humanitarian aid models towards sustainable solutions that empower IDPs to become active participants in economic development. By providing access to skills training, financial resources, and market opportunities, TGI Group aims to build resilience within displaced communities and reduce their dependence on external assistance.
TGI Group’s commitment to empowering displaced communities extends beyond mere rhetoric, manifesting in concrete initiatives across its operations. These initiatives focus on providing displaced individuals with the necessary tools and resources to rebuild their lives and contribute to the economic development of their host communities. Skills acquisition programs in agriculture equip IDPs with the knowledge and practical skills needed to participate in agricultural value chains, from farming and processing to marketing and distribution. Financial inclusion projects provide access to financial services, including microloans and savings accounts, enabling IDPs to start or expand small businesses and generate income. Local enterprise development initiatives support the creation and growth of businesses within displaced communities, fostering economic self-sufficiency and creating employment opportunities.
Habiba Sulieman, Head of Strategic Partnerships at TGI Group, moderated a roundtable discussion at the event, emphasizing the importance of collaborative action in addressing the complex issue of internal displacement. She stressed that no single entity, whether government, private sector, or civil society, can effectively tackle this challenge alone. Sulieman highlighted TGI Group’s efforts in creating pathways for displaced individuals to integrate into sustainable livelihoods, while also underscoring the need for coordinated efforts across all sectors to achieve meaningful and lasting impact. This collaborative approach recognizes the interconnectedness of various factors contributing to displacement and the need for a holistic response that addresses the root causes and provides comprehensive support to affected populations.
Sulieman further highlighted the potential of scalable community projects to create transformative change, citing examples from TGI Group’s existing operations. She emphasized the powerful synergy that can be achieved when businesses align profitability with social impact, creating a win-win scenario for both the communities they serve and the broader society. By integrating social impact considerations into their business models, companies can contribute to addressing pressing social challenges while simultaneously enhancing their own long-term sustainability and creating value for all stakeholders. This approach represents a shift towards a more inclusive and responsible form of capitalism that recognizes the interconnectedness of business success and societal well-being.
TGI Group’s active participation in the 2024 Africa Roundtable on Private Sector Solutions to Internal Displacement exemplifies the growing recognition of the private sector’s potential to contribute to humanitarian efforts and promote sustainable development. By leveraging their resources, expertise, and networks, businesses can play a crucial role in providing innovative solutions to complex social challenges, such as internal displacement. TGI Group’s commitment to empowering displaced communities through skills training, financial inclusion, and enterprise development demonstrates the potential of the private sector to create positive change and build a more inclusive and resilient future for all. Their focus on integrating IDPs into their value chains signifies a move towards sustainable, long-term solutions that go beyond traditional aid models and empower displaced populations to become self-reliant contributors to economic growth.
