Macron taps Tony Elumelu to lead Africa initiative

France is reshaping its Africa strategy with the launch of the Africa France Impact Coalition, a new platform linking French policymakers with leading African entrepreneurs. President Emmanuel Macron has appointed Nigerian business leader Tony Elumelu to spearhead the initiative, signaling a stronger focus on private-sector partnerships and job creation across the continent. The coalition, set to feature at the France-Africa summit in Nairobi in May, aims to unlock investment, innovation, and opportunities for Africa’s fast-growing youth population. The move also reflects France’s effort to rebuild influence beyond its traditional Francophone sphere, especially as political tensions and coups have strained ties in parts of West Africa. By deepening economic and security cooperation with anglophone countries, Paris hopes to reset relations and remain relevant in Africa’s evolving geopolitical landscape.

African Business