Both public institutions and private individuals must support young business owners to provide them with the experience, credibility and capital they need, says CEO of Mara Group, founder Mara Foundation, Ashish J. Thakkar.

Ziad Tlemçani is not your average former footballer.

After a decade of booming oil prices and the rise of new entrants into the African market, Total is responding with an aggressive new exploration strategy.

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) prides itself on the planning behind its loans, grants and technical assistance. The agency's new president is looking to put know-how from Asia and South America to work in Africa.

Already a household name in Nigeria after appearing on Dragons' Den, furniture magnate Ibukun Awosika is back on TV promoting youth entrepreneurship.

Jeannine Mabunda Lioko has been one of the most influential women in the economic sphere and has built up a sizeable network of contacts.