Itai Michael Preston Choto: Amplifying Africa’s Voice on the Global Stage

With your experience in trade and investment across Commonwealth markets, particularly sub-Saharan Africa, how are you leveraging economic diplomacy to reposition your country, Guinea, on the global investment map, particularly in a climate of shifting geopolitical interests?

Itai Michael Preston Choto: Thank you for this unique opportunity. Firstly, economic diplomacy is a key element of our Foreign Affairs strategy as the nation transitions and rebuilds. You will note that Africa is now at the centre of a geopolitical race to secure vital commodities that will fuel the global economy for years to come. Our core objective is to position Guinea as a strategic global partner of choice, leveraging its vast mineral resource base to drive domestic, regional, and global development.

As you are probably aware, Guinea possesses a remarkable wealth of mineral resources, earning its reputation as a “geological miracle” within West Africa. The country boasts significant reserves of bauxite, iron, gold, and diamonds, all with substantial exploitation value and development potential. Notably, Guinea stands as the world’s leading bauxite producer.

Now, as global demand for transition minerals essential for a clean energy future soars, both Guinea and Africa have a unique opportunity. If managed well, this could prevent the repetition of historical mistakes associated with mineral extraction. We are also implementing flexible economic strategies to adapt to and withstand an increasingly competitive geopolitical and geo-economic landscape—through supply chain management, technological development, and enhanced competitiveness.

Furthermore, we are driving forward new economic growth engines by leveraging Guinea’s mining sector to attract investment in agriculture, energy, infrastructure development, and manufacturing, while strengthening the advantage of Guinea’s strategic location.

Lastly, we are developing, strengthening, and managing economic cooperation with other countries, as well as international and regional organisations, including financial institutions, because we know we do not exist in isolation.

Navigating Complex Political Landscapes

You have advised governments, international organisations, and private sector leaders across Africa. What are the key ingredients for effective stakeholder engagement in the continent’s often complex and evolving political environments?

Itai Michael Preston Choto: Think locally – act globally. Cliché as it might be, this is fundamental in my view. The modern world is one of persistent change. The rapid rate of digital innovation, fluctuating political landscapes, and economic uncertainty have created the perfect storm for businesses and governments seeking to maintain stability and growth. Navigating this landscape requires a combination of economic and political analysis skills and the ability to communicate succinctly, persuasively, and effectively.

Creating a multi-stakeholder platform is essential. Such platforms strengthen partnerships through regular interactive consultations, ensuring collaboration, learning from pitfalls, maximising impact, and fostering inclusivity.

Another often-overlooked element is the constant monitoring and evaluation of progress. Strategies must be agile enough to adapt to Africa’s evolving political and economic environments. Lastly, one must develop a keen understanding of political structures, cultural nuances, and international diplomacy to navigate these landscapes successfully.

Merging Culture with Strategy, Amplifying Africa’s Narrative

From your experience, how can African governments and businesses better align cultural awareness with international trade and investment strategies?

Itai Michael Preston Choto: Again, I return to this principle: Think locally – act globally. It is about global expansion with a localised appeal.

Africa’s image is still largely shaped by external actors. Yet there is a growing movement to change that. How can African nations take control of their narrative, and what role does strategic communications play in projecting a confident, unified voice on the global stage?

Itai Michael Preston Choto: Africa needs to redefine its role in global governance and assert its position in shaping solutions to humanity’s most pressing challenges. We need systemic change, reminding the world that Africa is not merely a recipient of global policies but a critical architect of solutions.

There has been a lack of commitment among the political allies mandated to advance Africa’s regional and global agenda. This has left a vacuum in shaping Africa’s story. We want a continent filled with hope, bound together by a shared vision of a brighter future – one defined by individual freedom, economic promise, and African pride.

Preparing for Africa’s Future

With Africa poised to be a major player in global affairs over the next few decades, long-term planning is more critical than ever. What strategic moves must governments and the private sector prioritise now to futureproof the continent’s political and economic development?

Itai Michael Preston Choto: We are ‘poor’ because we lack strategic governance, value addition, and the political will to ensure our natural wealth serves the people. Doing business in Africa remains unpredictable, with policy inconsistencies frustrating both domestic and foreign investors. This must change.

Despite these challenges, opportunities abound. With the right policies and by capitalising on internal strengths – human capital, a young population, natural resources, digital innovation, and regional integration – Africa can reshape its development trajectory.

Key priorities should include accelerating free movement of people, goods, and services, Financing Africa’s own development, strengthening public-private collaboration, leveraging technology for rapid transformation, and accelerating local production and value addition for industrialisation. Governments must foster regulatory stability, infrastructure development, and access to credit to empower the private sector as the continent’s engine of growth.

What about Africa’s youth?

Itai Michael Preston Choto: As I travel across Africa, I never worry that the dreams of the next generation are too small. The question is whether we can create an environment where those dreams can flourish. I want Africa’s young people to play an active, pivotal role in shaping global policy and action. They are Africa’s most valuable asset. If we think and act in unison, bound by shared belief and a sense of camaraderie, Africa’s future will be bright.

Asante Sana.