IBL Welcomes Benoît Chervalier for a Strategic Discussion on African Economic and Financial Dynamics

Last Friday, IBL gathered its management team for a strategic reflection session with Benoît Chervalier, President of the Africa Committee of the European Employers' Association, investment banker, Executive Director of the ESSEC Chair on "Business and Industry in Africa," and a recognized expert on African economies. This discussion was part of a strategic monitoring initiative aimed at deepening the understanding of the economic and institutional trajectories of the continent. Having been present in Africa for several years, IBL has recently strengthened its position through new acquisitions in Kenya, continuing its gradual commitment to the region.

During the meeting, Benoît Chervalier shared insights and reflections drawn from 25 years of fieldwork. He emphasized that the continent is not a homogeneous entity; rather, he suggested we speak of "Africas," as the demographic, political, and economic contexts vary significantly from one country to another. This diversity necessitates a nuanced and contextualized approach to each market. The differences between countries with strong industrial dynamics, those with fragile institutional transitions, and those undergoing rapid demographic changes require decisions based on precise local knowledge.

The discussions also addressed several key structural issues, including the growing role of the private sector in economic stability, the emergence of new industrial capacities, talent development, technical and technological needs, urbanization challenges, and the necessity of strengthening the links between educational systems and businesses. Benoît Chervalier stressed a central observation: a sustainable implantation strategy relies on the ability to grasp national specifics, understand resilience areas, and identify unique value levers for each country.

"The private sector plays a vital role. Even when political contexts are complex, it is businesses that maintain activity. For groups like IBL, this responsibility comes with a duty to understand the ground realities and a rigorous approach to each market," said Benoît Chervalier.

For IBL, these elements contribute to a strategic understanding of African environments. The goal is to enhance the quality of analyses that guide decision-making. This meeting allowed the Top Team to discuss ongoing transformations and evaluate the economic and financial trajectories that inform the Group's strategic actions.

"This session provided us with an accurate and useful perspective on the environments of the African countries where IBL is already active, as well as those we are closely studying. Understanding local realities is essential for building responsible and coherent development aligned with local needs. This rigorous, field-based approach guides the way we envision our presence in the region," said Preetee Jhamna, CFO of Group Operations.

The session offered a rich and structured analytical space, enabling IBL leadership to consolidate its vision and integrate independent perspectives on the continent's dynamics. This collaborative working moment contributes to strengthening the Group's ability to evolve in diverse African contexts and to pursue its development with precision and discernment.