In the 23rd World Economic Forum held in Cape Town between 8-10 May 2013, meetings were held under the topic of “Africa: Realization of the Promises Offered”. The meetings shedding a light to the future of Africa were co-chaired by Mo İbrahim, Head of the Mo İbrahim Foundation in England, Frannie Leautier, General Secretary of the Foundation for Developing the Capacity of Africa, Arif M. Naqvi, Founder and Head of The Abraaj Group based in United Arab Emirates and Mustafa V. Koç, Head of the Executive Board of Koç Holding.
Mustafa V. Koç: “We believe in Africa and the potential it bears ...”
Mustafa V. Koç, Head of the Koç Holding Executive Board making a speech at the press conference attended by the co presidents in Cape Town said that the economic, democratic and human developments in the past 10 years were effective in the creation of the strong growth trend in Africa and he added: “This growth trend is based on the improvement of macroeconomic developments, government reforms, implementation of business friendly policies and accelerated privatization works. Africa impresses the world with its young population, developing life standard, increasing urbanization and strengthening middle class. For me, Africa is a symbol of strong promises and hope. The commercial links between Turkey and Africa which have recently developed and the active foreign policy followed in the region made us hear more about the new Africa. Both Turkey and Koç Holding believe in Africa.”
“We have shown our commitment in the future of Africa”
Mustafa V. Koç emphasized that they, as the Koç Group, showed their commitment in the future of Africa with the acquisition of Defy, the biggest whiteware manufacturer of South Africa and he said: “We consider Africa as a long term strategic business partner. Therefore, I am very excited to join WEF Africa as co-president.” Mustafa V. Koç said that Africa held important opportunities offering new start for private sector. “Environmentally sustainable and more social business models are unique chances for the private sector. Economic growth and sustainable development in Africa will go hand in hand with the properly chosen international partners who believe in the long term welfare of Africa”.
