Leadership and Governance

Leading with Integrity and Purpose

Make in Africa is committed to sound governance, where ethical principles matter as much as compliance. Our core values, legitimacy, accountability, transparency and collaboration, guide our work and are upheld by members drawn from across the continent.

Our governance rests on a Board of Trustees and a Managing Board, supported by an Executive Committee. Appointments will be announced. Together they keep the movement true to its mission: building more of what Africa uses and sells, in Africa, and publishing who delivers.

Board of Trustees

Stewards of Purpose and Integrity

The Board of Trustees will bring together members from business, government, academia and civil society. They uphold the movement’s mission with impartiality and dedication. With balanced representation from the private sector, public institutions and civil society, the Board reflects our commitment to inclusive and open governance, so that many voices shape the movement.

Seats Open:

Business Leaders

Chief executives and chairpersons of African companies bring hands-on expertise in industrial strategy, supply chains and investment. Nominations are invited.

Public Leaders

Former ministers, policymakers and officials with a record in governance and economic reform provide insight and strategic direction on how policy can support local production.

Academia

Scholars and administrators from African research institutions contribute expertise in innovation, research and policy development, and enrich the movement's work.

Civil Society

Leaders from community organisations and social enterprises, in environmental, educational and social fields, help shape strategies for fair and inclusive growth.

Managing Board

Driving Strategic Delivery

The Managing Board, led by a President, is the executive body of Make in Africa. It oversees operations and ensures that all activities match the mission and represent the movement well to partners. With shared executive authority, the Managing Board reports directly to the Board of Trustees, supporting clear and cohesive decisions.

Seats Open:

Industry Experts

Senior executives from sectors such as automotive, pharmaceuticals and agro-processing contribute practical operating experience to shape effective strategies.

Financial Leaders

Finance chiefs and economists from banks, development finance bodies and investment firms provide financial oversight and investment advice that supports sustainable growth.

Technology Innovators

Founders and technology leaders from established firms and fast-growing start-ups across Africa bring practical solutions and digital expertise to the movement's work.

Government Representatives

Senior officials from national and regional economic bodies help align the movement's work with continental goals such as Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Executive Committee

Driving Operational Excellence

The Executive Committee, led by a Chair, manages daily operations with care and dedication. It brings together experienced professionals from varied industries and backgrounds, and it carries out initiatives while working closely with partners and members. Their combined expertise helps the movement tackle regional and global economic challenges with practical results.

Seats Open:

Sector Specialists

Professionals with long experience in areas such as renewable energy, manufacturing and digital services contribute to operational management and strategic decisions.

Communications Leaders

Experts in communications, media and public affairs play a key role in telling Africa's industrial story honestly, and in drawing in partners who share our aims.

Legal and Compliance Officers

Legal professionals and compliance specialists make sure the movement follows national and international rules, and that its operations stay ethical and open.

Operations Managers

Senior managers with a record of running large projects and cross-functional teams are essential to putting the movement's strategy into practice.

Join Us in Building Africa's Industrial Future

Join a community of leaders and makers who are determined to see Africa build more at home. Our members, from many industries, work together to drive economic development and create lasting opportunities.

We invite you to take part and to help shape the future of industry and trade in Africa. Together we can build an ecosystem that rewards making, and that holds every partner to account.

Leadership and Governance