Afolabi Calls for Integration of Investment into Global Conflict Prevention Strategy
Chairman, SIFAX Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, has called for a stronger integration of economic investment into the global architecture for conflict prevention, arguing that infrastructure, employment, trade and economic opportunity
Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman of the SIFAX Group, has urged for a deeper integration of economic investment within the international framework for preventing conflicts. He argued that infrastructure, employment, trade, and economic prospects can help alleviate some of the underlying conditions that render societies susceptible to instability.
Addressing the United Nations General Assembly's High-Level Global Executive Roundtable on Diplomacy, Multilateralism, and Conflict Resolution in New York, Afolabi emphasized that the global community must shift focus from reacting to conflicts post-occurrence to prioritizing preventive diplomacy, sustainable development, and economic inclusivity.
He pointed out that peace and prosperity are mutually reinforcing, stating, "Peace creates the environment for investment, investment creates opportunity, and opportunity strengthens the foundations of peace."
Afolabi highlighted the current global predicament marked by geopolitical tensions, economic unpredictability, climate challenges, inequality, and waning trust in institutions. He argued that these issues necessitate a coordinated approach centered around diplomacy, multilateralism, conflict resolution, and sustainable economic growth.
Focusing on Africa, he noted that the continent continues to face infrastructure gaps, financial limitations, trade barriers, and inadequate economic opportunities, which significantly impact its development trajectory. "Africa’s peace building agenda must be accompanied by an investment agenda," Afolabi declared, stressing the need for investments in transport, ports, energy, technology, manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, and human capital.
He also advocated for enhanced regional value chains and improved connectivity among African economies, asserting that the successful rollout of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) requires more than mere trade agreements. "Trade and connectivity can forge common interests among nations. The success of AfCFTA hinges not only on trade agreements but on infrastructure, efficient logistics, digital systems, financing, and political cooperation."
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