By Ajong Mbapndah L*
In a high-energy conversation with Pan African Visions, Michel Lobé Ewané—Co-founder and CEO of the Africa-Dubai Business Summit (ADBS)—offered an unfiltered look into one of the continent’s most anticipated gatherings. With preparations in full swing for the 2025 edition, Ewané gave us a glimpse behind the scenes of a summit that promises more than panels and pitches—it offers deal-making at scale, strategic matchmaking, and a powerful redefinition of Africa’s place in global investment corridors.
How are preparations going for the 2025 Africa-Dubai Business Summit?
We are working hard to prepare for the event. I can assure you that we have no time to sleep. Every detail matters. This includes setting up and filling in our advisory board, sending invitations to VIPs, discussing with potential panelists and travelling throughout Africa’s capital cities to meet government representatives, as we are inviting heads of state and ministers. We are engaged on many fronts. We are also engaged in discussions with potential sponsors, developing digital marketing strategies, and addressing security and protocol.
Could you share some insights on how previous Africa-Dubai Summits have looked?
The first Africa Dubai Business Summit took place in 2021. It was a very challenging event as it was held during the final weeks of the global pandemic that shocked the world, known as the ‘Covid-19’ crisis. However, it was a great success. It was the first time the Emirates hosted an event of this importance with a focus on Africa.
What are the stakes for Africa and Dubai? What do both parties offer, and what do they stand to gain from the collaboration and networks proposed by ADBS?
ADBS is not just a summit, but a continental platform designed to accelerate collaboration between Africa and the Arab world in terms of investment, policy and innovation. With strategic access to sovereign wealth funds, royal courts and heads of state across Africa and the Gulf, we are committed to reshaping Africa’s global trade and investment narrative through actionable partnerships, not just conversations.
What metrics did you use to measure the deeper impact of the ADBS in Africa?
Of course, figures matter. However, what is more important is that we explore new pathways for investment, sustainable development, disruptive technologies, empowerment and cultural exchange. We want attendees to witness the rise of Africa’s next unicorns and engage in deal-making at the highest level. We will also celebrate the individuals, leaders and institutions that are shaping the future, while fostering collaboration with the Arab world.
For businesses interested in joining ADBS, how affordable is it?
It’s certainly an interesting proposition. How affordable is it? For individual businessmen and businesswomen who want to attend the event, the cost of a business-class ticket is 1,500 US dollars. A VIP ticket costs 3,500 US dollars.
To make the experience special, confidential, secure and efficient, we have set up a Deal Room to provide the best conditions for discussing and finalising deals. Operating under the facilitation of many key stakeholders from the Arab world, including royal family offices, the Deal Room offers a hyper-curated matchmaking experience. Access is exclusive to approved participants. The Deal Room pairs vetted projects with qualified capital in a secure and confidential environment.
The ADBS Deal Room is facilitated by several key stakeholders from the Arab world, including royal family offices, and offers a hyper-curated matchmaking experience. Exclusive to approved participants, the Deal Room pairs vetted projects with qualified capital in a secure and confidential environment.
What is your perception of the investment climate in Africa besides events like the ADBS?
The perception of the investment climate in Africa is generally mixed, if not negative. The truth is that there are countries where the climate is really bad, marred by bureaucracy, poor governance and corruption. However, this is not the case everywhere. Rwanda, Botswana and Namibia are examples of countries where the principles of good governance are observed. Where there is tolerance zero for corruption.
What is your assessment of the evolution of a core initiative such as the AfCFTA?
In my view, the process is very slow, and many borders remain a nightmare for companies. The AfCFTA is a great idea for creating a large market in Africa. However, the journey from the dream of economic panafricanism to reality remains very long.
Is there anything else you would like to say to investors, potential partners and businesses to convince them that the ADBS is the place to be this November?
Our message is simple and straightforward. This is not just another business event. It’s a defining summit where Africa’s boldest economic ambitions meet global influence, vision, and innovation. From energy to space and green finance to digital sovereignty, Africa is not waiting for the future. Africa is building It.
*Culled from August edition of PAV Magazine
