LEAP Africa’s SIPA Highlights Continent’s Potential for Growth and Innovation

Mary Nnah

The 12th edition of the Social Innovators Programme and Awards (SIPA) organised by LEAP Africa has highlighted the vast potential for growth and innovation in Africa. The event, held at the Four Points by Sheraton, Victoria Island, Lagos, brought together leading innovators, policymakers, and experts to discuss how to harness the continent’s potential.

The theme of the event, “Africa as THE Sector: Maximising Possibilities through Technology, Finance, and Policy,” underscores the need for a shift in perception about Africa from being an emerging market to a sector of creativity, investment, and transformative influence. According to Clare Omatseye, Managing Director, JNC International and Board Chair, LEAP Africa, “Collaboration is innovation, and innovation is the engine of transformation. We need tripartite collaboration. The time is now for Africa.”

The event highlighted the importance of collaboration and investment in unlocking Africa’s potential. Speakers at the event emphasised the need for targeted investment and smart policymaking to unlock prosperity for underserved communities. They also stressed the importance of strengthening Africa’s innovation infrastructure and catalysing collaboration across sectors.

Kehinde Ayeni, Executive Director of LEAP Africa, set the tone for the event by emphasising the organisation’s commitment to youth-led transformation. “We are committed to empowering young innovators and promoting social change in Africa,” she said.

The SIPA Awards Ceremony recognised outstanding young changemakers across Africa, showcasing the impact that can be achieved through innovation and determination. Abdulateef Olaosebikan of Nafarm Foods won the Social Impact Award category, while Samuel Folorunsho of Legis 360 bagged the Outstanding Innovator Award.

The winners were selected from over 70 award nomination entries, a testament to the growing pool of talented and dedicated young innovators in Africa. The event demonstrated that Africa is not merely participating in the global future, but is defining it.

As LEAP Africa continues to build an inclusive and thriving Africa driven by dynamic, innovative, and ethical youth leaders, the future of the continent looks brighter than ever. With its commitment to empowering young innovators and promoting social change, LEAP Africa is helping to shape the future of Africa and beyond.