Acumen West Africa Presents, ‘Transforming Enormous Potential into Outsized Impact’
Mary Nnah
Acumen West Africa, in collaboration with GAIA Africa, hosted an exclusive evening event in Lagos, Nigeria, featuring Acumen CEO/Founder, Jacqueline Novogratz.
The event focused on the transformative power of impact investment, gender-inclusive entrepreneurship, and moral leadership, showcasing the success stories of Acumen Fellows and investee companies. Attendees engaged in discussions highlighting Acumen’s initiatives, including off-grid electrification efforts in sub-Saharan Africa.
Speaking on some challenges Acumen has faced while implementing its initiatives in West Africa, and how they have been addressed, Jacqueline Novogratz said, “Acumen West Africa operates as an ecosystem, starting with patient capital investments across agriculture, energy, and financial inclusion sectors. Our impact extends to over 50 million individuals, supported by Acumen Academy builders focused on solving poverty-related challenges.”
Prof. Akin Abayomi, Commissioner for Health, Lagos State, emphasized the importance of supporting enterprises to combat poverty amidst global economic crises. He highlighted the value that Acumen programs could have if extended to policymakers to improve effective leadership to address social challenges.
Additionally, Jacqueline Novogratz highlighted Acumen’s commitment to off-grid electrification, having supported 40 companies over 17 years, impacting nearly a quarter billion people. Under Acumen’s Alliances, its Hardest-to-Reach initiative aims to provide energy access to over 60 million people in remote Sub-Saharan African regions, which reflects their collaborative ethos.
The event provided a platform for discussions on fostering inclusivity, justice, and sustainability, aligning with Acumen’s mission of enduring social change.
