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Africa’s foremost industrialist and President of Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has raised alarm over two major obstacles undermining the continent’s industrial advancement: inconsistent government policies and inadequate electricity supply.
Speaking during a high-level panel session at the 32nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), Dangote emphasized that no meaningful industrial growth can occur in Africa unless these persistent challenges are addressed decisively.
The panel discussion, moderated by renowned CNN Anchor and Correspondent, Ms. Eleni Giokos, brought together some of the continent’s leading voices in business and policy. Dangote, who has built one of Africa’s most diversified industrial conglomerates, warned that unpredictable regulatory environments and unreliable energy infrastructure are not only deterring foreign direct investment but also stifling local entrepreneurship and manufacturing capacity.
“You cannot industrialize a continent when you do not have reliable power, and when policies shift with every administration,” Dangote said, drawing applause from the audience.
He further noted that energy is the lifeblood of modern industry, pointing out that African countries must prioritize long-term investments in power generation, transmission, and distribution. According to him, without stable electricity, manufacturers are forced to rely on expensive and unsustainable alternatives, driving up production costs and reducing competitiveness in global markets.
Dangote also called for greater policy continuity across African governments, urging leaders to implement frameworks that transcend political cycles.
“Investors need confidence. You can’t be changing rules mid-game. It kills innovation and discourages expansion,” he said.
The industrialist’s remarks echo longstanding concerns within Africa’s private sector, which has often cited erratic power supply and unpredictable government regulations as core impediments to industrialization efforts across the continent. Despite possessing vast natural resources and a growing labor force, many African nations continue to import finished goods due to weak local manufacturing capacity.
Dangote commended Afreximbank for its efforts to support African trade and industrial development, noting that institutions like the bank have a critical role in bridging financing gaps and encouraging intra-African commerce.
The Afreximbank AGM, hosted in Nairobi this year, convenes policymakers, business leaders, and development partners from across the globe. Discussions have centered on accelerating industrial transformation under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), fostering innovation, and building resilient supply chains.
As Africa looks to reposition itself in the global economy, Dangote’s comments serve as a clarion call to governments and stakeholders to create the enabling environment necessary for sustainable industrial growth. Without reliable infrastructure and consistent policies, experts warn that the continent may continue to lag in the race for economic self-sufficiency and global competitiveness.
