United Bank for Africa Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing Africa’s economic transformation through entrepreneurship, innovation, trade facilitation, and strategic global partnerships at the Africa Forward Summit 2026 held in Nairobi, Kenya.

The Summit, themed “Africa–France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth,” brought together Heads of State, policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders from Africa and Europe to discuss sustainable approaches to economic growth, industrialisation, and enhanced cross-border cooperation.

A statement from the bank on Tuesday stated that French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking at the Summit, called for a renewed Africa–France partnership anchored on innovation, investment, and shared prosperity.

“Africa and France are equal partners with common objectives. We must build strategic autonomy through innovation, investment, and partnership,” President Macron said.

Also speaking, the Chairman of UBA Group, Tony Elumelu, emphasised entrepreneurship and private sector-led development as key drivers of Africa’s economic transformation. “Africa’s future will not be built by aid, but by entrepreneurship, investment, and bold partnerships,” Elumelu said.

He stressed that stronger collaboration among governments, financial institutions, development partners, and the private sector remains critical to unlocking Africa’s economic potential. According to him, sustained growth will depend on partnerships that expand investment, support entrepreneurs, strengthen infrastructure, and boost trade across the continent.

The summit also served as a platform for United Bank for Africa Plc to reinforce its position as Africa’s Global Bank and a key facilitator of trade, investment, and economic integration.

With operations in 20 African countries and presence in the United Kingdom, France, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates, UBA said it continues to connect African businesses to global opportunities while supporting international investors accessing African markets.

The bank noted that its banking solutions, trade finance services, cross-border payment systems, and digital platforms are designed to support SMEs, entrepreneurs, and corporates seeking to scale across borders, particularly within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

UBA also reiterated the need for stronger collaboration between African and international institutions to accelerate industrialisation, infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and digital transformation across the continent.

As discussions on Africa’s economic future continue, the bank said it remains focused on supporting entrepreneurs, expanding intra-African trade, and building financial systems that promote innovation and long-term sustainable growth.