A business analyst, Mr Adewale Adebawo, has charged African entrepreneurs to see economic challenges as opportunities for growth and innovation, noting that some of the most impactful ideas on the continent are emerging from difficult operating environments. He said Africa’s tough economic conditions should not discourage innovators but rather push them to develop solutions that improve livelihoods and strengthen communities.
Adebawo made this statement while speaking at the Business Verge Awards, a platform that celebrates innovation, creativity, and excellence across Africa’s business and technology ecosystem. The event brought together entrepreneurs, technology leaders, investors, and creative professionals from different parts of the continent to recognise achievements and exchange ideas on building sustainable businesses in Africa.
According to Adebawo, Africa’s story is increasingly being shaped by innovators who refuse to be limited by infrastructure gaps, funding constraints, or policy challenges. He said many African entrepreneurs are proving that strong ideas can be developed and scaled even in difficult economic terrains.
“Across Africa, innovators are showing that great ideas can emerge from difficult environments. They are improving livelihoods, shaping industries, and strengthening communities,” he said.
He explained that Africa’s greatest strength lies in its people, particularly bold entrepreneurs who are willing to take risks and turn limitations into opportunities. According to him, these entrepreneurs are not only building profitable enterprises but also creating businesses that uplift society and address real social and economic problems.
Speaking in line with the theme of innovation at the Business Verge Awards, Adebawo highlighted key sectors where African entrepreneurs are making notable progress. He pointed to the fintech sector as one of the strongest examples of African-led innovation, praising founders who are driving financial inclusion through digital banking, mobile payments, and cross-border transaction platforms.
He noted that fintech startups across Africa are helping millions of people gain access to financial services, especially those previously excluded from the formal banking system. According to him, these innovations are improving how individuals and small businesses save, make payments, access credit, and participate in regional and global trade.
Adebawo also commended clean energy startups operating across the continent, saying they are playing a critical role in addressing Africa’s power challenges. He said many clean energy companies are deploying solar, renewable, and off-grid solutions to provide reliable electricity to homes, schools, and small businesses, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
He explained that access to sustainable energy is key to economic development, as it supports education, healthcare delivery, and entrepreneurship. By focusing on renewable energy, he said African startups are not only solving local problems but also contributing to global climate goals.
Beyond technology and energy, Adebawo drew attention to the creative economy, which he described as one of Africa’s fastest-growing and most influential sectors. He applauded content creators, storytellers, filmmakers, musicians, and digital entrepreneurs who are using their platforms to reshape Africa’s narrative and amplify diverse voices.
According to him, the creative industry is helping to change global perceptions of Africa while creating jobs and income opportunities for young people. He said digital platforms have made it easier for African creatives to reach global audiences, attract partnerships, and monetise their talents.
Adebawo, who is based in the United Kingdom and maintains strong professional ties with Nigeria, manages business operations across both regions. He also serves as a strategist, supporting institutions in sectors such as finance, fintech, construction, environmental services, and other emerging industries.
He is known for his work in simplifying complex business systems and mentoring emerging leaders. According to participants at the event, his ability to break down complicated ideas and guide entrepreneurs through growth challenges has made him a trusted advisor across multiple sectors.
In his closing remarks at the Business Verge Awards, Adebawo encouraged African innovators to remain focused on building solutions that deliver real impact. He urged entrepreneurs to prioritise inclusion, sustainability, and community growth rather than short-term gains.
He stressed that innovation should not be limited to technology alone, noting that mindset, discipline, and long-term vision are equally important. According to him, true innovation requires courage to start, consistency to continue, and a willingness to build something that will last beyond personal success.
“Innovation is not just technology. It is courage, consistency, and the willingness to build something that outlives you,” he said.
The Business Verge Awards continues to serve as a platform for recognising Africa’s next generation of innovators, creators, and business leaders. Through events like this, stakeholders say the platform is helping to inspire collaboration, celebrate excellence, and encourage entrepreneurs to play an active role in shaping Africa’s economic and technological future.
Participants at the event agreed that despite ongoing economic and structural challenges, Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem remains resilient. They noted that with the right support, policies, and investment, African innovators can continue to develop solutions that drive growth, create jobs, and position the continent as a key player in the global innovation landscape.
