By Mulengera Reporters
Equity Group Managing Director and CEO Dr. James Mwangi called for bold, purpose-driven leadership to shape Africa’s future, urging leaders across the continent to take a more assertive role in global economic decision-making.
Speaking at the Rotary District 9214 Conference and Assembly 2026 held at Speke Resort Uganda, Dr. Mwangi said the global economic system was largely designed in the late 1940s when Africa was not represented at the table. He stressed that the continent now stands at a defining moment that requires it to reposition itself from being a passive participant to an active shaper of global outcomes.
“Africa must move from being on the menu to sitting at the table,” he said, calling for stronger leadership and unity in defining the continent’s economic agenda. He added that Africa’s future will depend on the choices made today and the willingness of leaders to act decisively.
Dr. Mwangi also acknowledged Rotary International as a values-driven movement with the capacity to spark meaningful transformation across societies. He noted that such networks, combined with purposeful leadership, can help unlock Africa’s vast potential.
Drawing from Equity’s experience, he emphasized the importance of integrating social impact into business models. He revealed that nearly 40 percent of loan defaults are linked to health shocks, a challenge that led to the creation of the Equity Group Foundation. Through its healthcare initiative, Equity Afya, Equity has established more than 150 medical centres to strengthen community resilience and safeguard livelihoods.
He further highlighted the Group’s investment in human capital development, including over 60,000 scholarships awarded, financial literacy training for more than 2.4 million women and youth, and support reaching millions through social protection programmes. Farmers and small enterprises have also benefited from targeted empowerment initiatives and entrepreneurship training.
“These interventions are anchored in our purpose of transforming lives, giving dignity, and expanding opportunities for wealth creation,” Dr. Mwangi said.
On sustainability, he pointed to environmental efforts that have seen over 44 million trees planted and hundreds of thousands of clean energy products distributed to households, supporting climate resilience.
Dr. Mwangi concluded by reaffirming Equity’s commitment to shared prosperity and partnerships that drive inclusive growth, insisting that Africa’s progress will be defined by bold leadership and deliberate action today.(For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
