In a recent opinion editorial published by TIME magazine, Tony O. Elumelu, CFR, Group Chairman of Heirs Holdings, emphasizes the critical role of African youth entrepreneurs in addressing the global climate crisis. The piece, titled “Why Youth Entrepreneurs Are Key to Tackling Climate Change in Africa,” explores how the continent can lead the fight against climate change through innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable solutions driven by its young population.
Elumelu highlights the importance of leveraging Africa’s dynamic youth to develop climate-resilient businesses and sustainable practices. Through the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), Heirs Holdings has been actively supporting young African entrepreneurs who are addressing urgent challenges across the continent, including climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss.
The Tony Elumelu Foundation has spearheaded several initiatives aimed at fostering green entrepreneurship. One notable partnership is with UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited (GenU) and the IKEA Foundation to launch the Green Entrepreneurship Programme, which empowers youth-led businesses focused on environmental sustainability. Additionally, TEF’s collaboration with the European Commission (EU) and the German Development Agency (GIZ) supports women-led ventures through the Women Entrepreneurship for Africa (WE4A) Programme, further advancing climate action.
These efforts align with Heirs Holdings’ broader goals, both within the organization and in its philanthropic activities, to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability. Elumelu underscores that empowering Africa’s youth, especially in the entrepreneurial space, is not just a strategy for economic growth but a critical solution for mitigating the effects of climate change on the continent.
By supporting initiatives that nurture youth-led businesses, Elumelu believes Africa can become a global leader in sustainable development, offering innovative solutions to one of the world’s most pressing challenges.