Absa CEO Seeking Deals as He Eyes Bigger Footprint in Africa

South Africa’s Minister of International Relations, Ronald Lamola, presented Africa's diplomatic strategy and leadership at the Bloomberg Africa Business Summit 2025 in Johannesburg. He emphasized the continent's role in shaping a new geopolitical order, highlighting the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing global challenges.

Patrice Motsepe, Executive Chairman and Founder of African Rainbow Minerals, discussed Africa's investment climate, mining innovation, and inclusive growth during an interview with Bloomberg's Jennifer Zabasajja at the Bloomberg Africa Business Summit 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa.

H.E. Wamkele Mene of the AfCFTA Secretariat and Jeremy Awori, Group CEO of Ecobank, discussed strategies for managing debt, expanding access to capital, and fostering stability at the Bloomberg Africa Business Summit 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa. The conversation was moderated by S’thembile Cele.

South Africa's inflation has increased slightly, prompting speculation about potential interest rate decisions. The rise in inflation may influence the South African Reserve Bank's upcoming monetary policy actions as it assesses economic conditions. Investors are closely monitoring these developments to gauge the central bank's response.

Lagardère Travel Retail has expanded its operations in Africa by entering the Rwandan market, marking its presence in eight countries across the continent. The company is introducing a diverse retail offering that is locally driven, aiming to cater to the unique preferences of Rwandan consumers and travelers. This move signifies Lagardère's commitment to growth in the African travel retail sector, which has been identified as a significant area for expansion.

Jon Moore, CEO of BloombergNEF, emphasized Africa's crucial role in the global clean energy transition at the Bloomberg Africa Business Summit 2025 in Johannesburg. He highlighted the increasing demand for critical minerals such as lithium and cobalt, which are reshaping trade, investment, and supply chains. This discussion underscores the continent's potential to become a key player in the clean energy sector as the world shifts towards sustainable energy solutions.

Bloomberg's Arijit Ghosh, Managing Editor for Africa, introduced the inaugural Africa’s Startups to Watch list at the Bloomberg Africa Business Summit 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa. This list highlights early-stage ventures that are driving innovation, investment, and impact across key sectors in Africa. The event gathered influential entrepreneurs and investors to discuss the continent's potential for growth and development.

Shameel Joosub, CEO of Vodacom Group, Leila Fourie of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa of Prosus and Naspers, and Daniel Mminele, Chairperson of Nedbank, discussed strategies to rejuvenate South Africa's economic growth at the Bloomberg Africa Business Summit 2025 in Johannesburg. The panel emphasized the importance of reform, innovation, and collaboration in overcoming current economic challenges and restoring momentum in the country's markets.