The original piece was published in Economia & Mercado:
In 2025, Africa Day will be celebrated in a context of profound and accelerated transformation, in which the past is taken as the foundation for gaining strength and resilience, and for leveraging a new era. This date invites us to reflect on a continent that is redefining its future. While this year’s central theme revolves around historical reparations, an equally relevant narrative emerges: that of an Africa moving forward, through regional cooperation and strategic development, towards a new era of economic progress.
Over the last few years, the African continent has taken significant steps towards greater economic and political integration. The effective implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) represents a decisive milestone in this process, with significant changes in manufacturing, agro-processing and services. By eliminating customs barriers and harmonizing regulations, this historic agreement has the potential to boost intra-African trade by 45% by 2045. According to the African Development Bank (AfDB), Africa is positioning itself as an increasingly promising region, prioritizing green industrialization, the digital economy and a skilled youth. At the same time, investments in quality infrastructure are reshaping Africa’s economic landscape.
In this new context, transformative infrastructures are connecting regions and redefining value chains, making them more competitive. The Lobito Corridor, which links Angola to Zambia and the DRC, is a prime example of how regional cooperation can catalyze industrialization and intra-African trade and exponentially increase exports. The Port of Nacala in Mozambique becomes a crucial link for transcontinental trade, while major investments in railway expansion in East Africa link cities, shorten distances and connect remote communities.
These initiatives not only create the necessary conditions for attracting foreign direct investment, with the promotion of geopolitical stability, but also facilitate trade and the development of urban centers, as well as job creation and local empowerment.
In the energy field, we are witnessing a remarkable transition. Countries like Morocco, with the Noor Ouarzazate solar complex, South Africa, with the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer program (REIPPP), that has added 6,000 MW of clean energy capacity to the national grid, or Angola with the ongoing Caculo Cabaça Hydroelectric Power Plant Project, set to become the 3rd largest in Africa, demonstrate how the continent can lead the clean energy revolution.
In addition, the Mission 300, led by the World Bank and the African Development Bank, promises to connect 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030. With a strong political will expressed in the Dar es Salaam Declaration, 30 countries have come together to reform the energy sector, boost jobs and accelerate economic transformation. With 30 billion dollars mobilized and ambitious targets, the initiative is focused on sustainable solutions and attracting private capital to ensure access to affordable and reliable energy across the continent. These visionary ventures not only address urgent electrification needs but also position Africa as a major player in the global green economy.
The private sector has a critical role to play in today’s landscape. Companies embracing innovative and sustainable business models are actively contributing to the structural transformation of African economies. From Kenyan fintechs that have revolutionized financial services, to logistics platforms that optimize supply chains across the region, business innovation is creating opportunities for inclusive growth.
It is against this backdrop of ambition and action that Mitrelli reaffirms its strong commitment to Africa’s sustainable development, with our mission fully aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 – to build a prosperous, integrated Africa led by its own citizens. Our footprint spans several African geographies, where we implement comprehensive social impact projects that reflect our deep belief that development is not imposed, but built with, and for local communities. Whether it’s building hospitals equipped with state-of-the-art technology, technical schools and vocational training centers, drinking water and irrigation systems, or modern and affordable housing solutions, every project we implement carries the DNA of lasting transformation.
As economic players involved in this trajectory, we are committed to actively participating in this process, establishing mutually beneficial partnerships that generate additional value. Our approach goes beyond infrastructure. It involves knowledge transfer, institutional strengthening, staff training and promoting inclusive economic opportunities.
We believe in the power of empowerment as a catalyst for systemic change, which is why we invest in African youth, innovation and digitalization as drivers for a fairer, more resilient and prosperous future. With results already beginning to show, we can only accelerate this movement, contributing to a more united Africa capable of determining its own destiny on the global stage.
The celebration of Africa Day stands as a testament to the path that is being charted towards shared prosperity. The continent is no longer just a promise of the future: it is a pole of real growth and innovation that, aware of its challenges, is facing them with determination and strategic vision.
The message is clear: Africa is built with bridges, not barriers. Economic integration, strategic cooperation and investment in critical infrastructure are the foundations of a new era. For those of us, leaders, companies and investors who understand this reality and are committed to it, now is the time to establish solid partnerships, invest in sustainable solutions and participate consistently in the ongoing transformation; the opportunity, beyond economic return, is to be part of the legacy and history of Africa, for Africa.
