Mohammed Dewji recognized as ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ for Africa
Tanzanian businessman, Mohammed Dewji was announced as the winner of the ‘Entrepreneur of the Year – Business Africa’ Award on Wednesday evening in Paris.
Movement of the Enterprises of France” (“MEDEF”) who organized the first ever Forum on Youth and Entrepreneurship Africa, in partnership with the Choiseul Institute; awarded Mr. Dewji for the commendable impact he has had in driving business that is emblematic of Africa’s progress and success in this generation.
Established in 1988, MEDEF is the largest employer federation in France with large companies such as Total, BNP Paribas, AXA Group, Micheln and L’Oreal as members.
For France to have organized and successfully launched this Forum, is a sign of increased interest in fostering global private sector partnerships on the continent. Dewji spoke at length about how he plans to support the needs of the continent through private sector-led development. “Long-term sustainable development is what will keep the private sector thriving in Africa. And in order for this to happen, private companies need to begin by including the poor as producers, suppliers, employees and consumers similar to how MeTL Group is doing so in Tanzania.”
Speaking further, Dewji urged France to start to see non-francophone, East Africa as equally attractive investment destination because of the rapid growth rates and political stability in the region. He also greatly acknowledged President of Tanzania, Dr. John Pombe Magafuli for his “anti-corruption war, anti-waste measures and visionary style [which is] of great administration to Africa.” Further speaking, he said that the Tanzanian Government, “is a shining example of a new era of accountable and proactive development.”
In accepting the award, the President and CEO of MeTL Group, Mohammed Dewji dedicated the award to the youth of Africa, who he said, “are collectively our beacons of hope.” He encouraged that to never lose hope and, “let [their] ability to innovative, adapt and transform be central in [their] journeys as change-agents for Africa.”
Dewji, who is also the founder of the Mo Dewji Foundation is Tanzania, concluded his remarks by reminding the audience of their role as “catalysts in the transformation journey that Africa is currently on. He said, “we can build an entirely new future based on the understanding that global integration is the cornerstone of global prosperity.” He urged the audience to continue to position Africa as a world-class destination for thriving business, because he believes that “Africa’s rise and development is not just important for Africa, it’s important for the entire world.
