When I was at the University of Nairobi, a professor liked to brag that the Luo tribe produced so many intellectuals because they grew up eating fish from Lake Victoria. What seemed funny then now seems poignant as fish stocks have plummeted through overfishing and climate change. The loss of a key protein source can be devastating to not just to people's health but their culture and their ability to invest in their careers and communities.
There is cause to be optimistic about the growth potential of Africa—from its demographic advantages and entrepreneurial energy to the continent's natural resources and expanding partnerships. I attended the FII New Africa Summit yesterday in Riyadh, which reflects Saudi Arabia's ties to the region. Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Jadaan said he expects the kingdom's private-sector investments in Africa to reach $25 billion in the next 10 years.
The question is how to realize that potential in countries that are also vulnerable to climate change, geopolitical risk and food insecurity. It's great to see expats like Joseph Rehmann, the cofounder and CEO of Kenya's Victory Farms, succeeding with a sustainable farming model. But I get more excited by social entrepreneurs like Yvette Ishimwe, founder of Iriba Water Group and ENAGUA Group, who talks about empowering Africans to develop their own sustainable solutions.
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