By Hassan Osman Kargbo
United Bank for Africa (UBA) has once again reinforced its position as Africa’s Global Bank with a commanding presence at the 2025 African Caucus of Governors of the World Bank and IMF, held on July 31 in Bangui. Represented by its Group Chairman, Tony O. Elumelu, UBA took center stage at the high-level event, which gathered African Heads of State, Finance Ministers, Central Bank Governors, and global development leaders under the patronage of President Faustin-Archange Touadéra.
In a keynote address delivered on behalf of the institution, Mr. Elumelu emphasized UBA’s unwavering commitment to inclusive, private sector-driven development on the continent. Speaking on the theme “Resilient Infrastructure, Human Capital and Green Assets: Essential Levers for Strong, Inclusive and Sustainable Growth,” he called for a new model of African development—designed, led, and sustained by Africans.
“Elumelu’s remarks were more than a personal vision—they reflect the institutional ethos of UBA,” said a senior official at the forum. “UBA is not just a financial services provider. It is a development partner dedicated to powering Africa’s future.”
A Catalyst for Entrepreneurship and Youth Empowerment
As a pan-African financial institution operating in 20 African countries and major global financial centers, UBA has consistently invested in entrepreneurship and youth development. Through its partnership with the Tony Elumelu Foundation, UBA has enabled access to seed capital, mentorship, and business training for over 24,000 entrepreneurs across Africa. This includes direct support to 23 entrepreneurs from the host country, the Central African Republic.
“Investing in human capital is not charity; it is smart economics,” Elumelu noted. “At UBA, we believe that supporting African entrepreneurs creates jobs, reduces poverty, and builds long-term economic resilience.”
Driving Infrastructure and Energy Access
UBA continues to play a strategic role in financing infrastructure projects across the continent, including energy, transport, and digital infrastructure. Elumelu used the platform to urge governments to partner with institutions like UBA in building resilient systems that power economic growth. He highlighted access to electricity as a foundational requirement, pointing out that without reliable power, entrepreneurship and industrial development cannot thrive.
UBA’s involvement in energy financing and its support for public-private partnerships signal the bank’s readiness to support governments in delivering critical infrastructure, especially in underserved and remote communities.
Championing Africa’s Green Economy
In line with the bank’s sustainability agenda, UBA is also advocating for a stronger emphasis on Africa’s green assets. With Africa bearing the disproportionate burden of climate change, UBA is pushing for fair climate financing and increased investment in green SMEs. The bank has already taken steps to support environmentally responsible lending and promote clean energy initiatives across several African markets.
Africa’s Global Bank in Action
UBA’s participation at the African Caucus reflects its broader vision—to be more than a bank, but a trusted development partner for African prosperity. Through strategic financing, policy dialogue, and direct community investment, UBA is at the forefront of shaping an Africa that is economically empowered, socially inclusive, and globally competitive.
As the continent looks inward for solutions, UBA’s leadership stands as a beacon for what African institutions can achieve when they combine financial innovation with a deep commitment to local impact.
