Strengthening Human Capital in Africa for Sustainable Economic Development

Dear Network,

I’m currently reading The National Human Development Report of Cameroon, which highlights the importance of human capital for economic development in the country. Human capital is defined as the set of productive capacities that an individual acquires through the accumulation of general or specific knowledge, skills, and productive capacities.

However, I question the relevance of our educational system in some African countries, particularly with regard to general education. A purely theoretical training is not sufficient to build the human capital necessary for the structural transformation of our countries.

In fact, reading books and being based on theory does not make us operational. Africa needs operability, that is, people who are able to do, not just talk. We need people who possess skills that meet the specific needs of our economy.

That's why it's essential to strengthen the managerial skills of local entrepreneurs. Smallest enterprises in Cameroon for example, which account for 90% of Cameroonian businesses, need skills to manage their businesses effectively.

That's why I'm launching a call to action to support the Africa Business Development Summit, a platform that aims to strengthen the managerial skills of local entrepreneurs. This platform provides an opportunity for economic actors, including policymakers, government, international and national organizations, to contribute to the development of this entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The Africa Business Development Summit aims to:

• Strengthen the managerial skills of local entrepreneurs
• Develop partnerships between local businesses and international businesses
• Facilitate access to financing for local businesses
• Promote innovation and entrepreneurship in key sectors of the Cameroonian economy

Join me in contributing to strengthening human capital in Africa and supporting sustainable economic development in our countries.

Share this call to action with your networks and join us in building a prosperous economic future for Africa!

Jacques Martin EKWè

Chairman of The Board of Directors Le Cercle des Business Developers d’ Afrique - The Circle of Business Developers of Africa