ARPS Media
At the Innovation Africa 2025 Ministerial Summit, Dr. Poncelet O. Ileleji, CEO of Jokkolabs Banjul and NEPAD advisor, highlighted the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) to enhance Africa’s service industry. He advocated “digital sovereignty” to allow Africa to manage its data via independent payment gateways.
Dr. Ileleji proposed establishing a pan-African data center for transactions in local currencies, reducing dependency on major currencies like the dollar, euro, or pound. He also emphasized the importance of easier intra-continental travel and youth unity, recognizing the significant impact of Africans under 35 in driving positive change on the continent.
