Leaders and experts convened to deliberate on key developmental and environmental issues facing Africa, with a particular emphasis on seeking sustainable solutions during a recent Global Platform video by Oxford Business Group in collaboration with the group ARISE.

The video features Gagan Gupta, CEO of ARISE, along with contributions from experts Rahkmatoulah Cisse, Environment and Social Head, ARISE in Benin; Igor Simard Country Head, ARISE in Gabon; Sylvie Boldrini, ESG Manager, GSEZ in Gabon; Nadia Bousselmi, human resource manager (textile), ARISE in Togo; and Madje Oulede, Administration Manager (textile), ARISE in Togo.

The Global Platform video was filmed in three key African markets for ARISE: Gabon, Benin and Togo. The video tackled several pressing challenges head-on, including how to reduce unemployment through empowering local communities and driving economic growth.

Addressing income inequality also took centre stage, with a look at how to ensure that more value flows into the hands of farmers and resource owners to combat disparities in income distribution.

Additionally, the interviews explored the pressing matter of climate change and its profound impacts, with a focus on the pursuit of systemic solutions to address this global challenge comprehensively.

Sustainable solutions highlighted in the discussion encompassed various aspects, including the need for robust educational systems that empower women and children, infrastructure development spanning water sanitation, waste management, and sustainable energy, illustrative success stories in industrial transformation such as local wood processing in Gabon, and the recognition of an ecosystem approach that involves collaborative efforts among multiple stakeholders to comprehensively address challenges.

Gagan Gupta, ARISE’s CEO, highlighted the significance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in the pursuit of a better, more sustainable future for all Africans.

“Our mission is to empower local communities, promote economic growth, and safeguard the environment. This statement underscores ARISE's dedication to creating a lasting impact on the African continent by addressing multifaceted issues in a holistic manner,” he added.

Marc-André de Blois, OBG's Director of Video Content, emphasised that the discussions held during the interviews conducted on the ground were unique and impactful in multiple dimensions.

"This collaboration brings together diverse local and global perspectives on pressing African issues and offers innovative solutions. It signified a dedication to fostering sustainable development not just in Central and Western Africa but also across various emerging markets worldwide,” he noted.