A $500 million consortium and global stage for Africa at Expo 2020 Dubai

Expo 2020 Dubai is approaching rapidly, with the UAE gearing up to host an extraordinary event that promises to connect minds and create the future. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa, Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, the UAE’s Minister for International Cooperation and Director General of Expo 2020 Dubai Bureau, shed light on the extensive preparations taking place to welcome the world to Dubai in October. With 192 nations already confirmed to participate in the six-month-long event, the Expo aims to showcase a diverse range of cultures, innovations, and opportunities. The Expo, set to take place in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, marks a significant milestone for Dubai and the United Arab Emirates. Al Hashimy emphasized the city's track record of hosting mega events and its role in international forums, highlighting the Expo as a platform to launch the decade of action for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The event will serve as a global stage where countries can share their stories, cultures, and visions with millions of visitors. One of the key highlights of Expo 2020 Dubai is the strong participation from Africa. Al Hashimy expressed her excitement about the continent's involvement, noting that every African nation will be present at the Expo in a powerful and dignified manner. The event presents African countries with a unique opportunity to showcase their potential, attract investors, and forge new partnerships on a global scale. In a groundbreaking announcement, Al Hashimy revealed a $500 million investment fund dedicated to supporting African entrepreneurs. The initiative, a collaboration between Emirati private sector entities and the UAE government, aims to fuel medium-sized projects in Africa with a focus on youth and digitization. By leveraging resources in sectors like agriculture, tourism, and healthcare, the fund seeks to drive innovation and economic growth across the continent. The Expo Live program, a $100 million fund under Expo 2020 Dubai, offers additional support to social innovators and startups. Entrepreneurs in Africa can tap into this platform to scale their ideas and connect with potential partners. Al Hashimy emphasized the importance of fostering new partnerships and empowering young entrepreneurs to drive sustainable development in their respective countries. Looking ahead, Al Hashimy outlined the long-term impact of these initiatives on African entrepreneurs. While acknowledging that the journey to economic transformation is a gradual process, she emphasized the UAE's commitment to supporting Africa politically, socially, and economically. With a focus on youth empowerment and innovation, the UAE aims to strengthen its ties with the continent and contribute to its ongoing development. In the realm of international cooperation, Dubai's role in West Africa is set to expand, with initiatives in Senegal spotlighting areas of opportunity in sectors like housing and renewable energy. The Expo will serve as a platform to showcase the cultural richness and economic potential of West African nations, creating avenues for collaboration and exchange with the global community. As Expo 2020 Dubai draws closer, the momentum around African entrepreneurship and investment in the continent continues to grow. With a firm commitment to building bridges and fostering sustainable development, the UAE is poised to play a key role in shaping a brighter future for Africa.