Africa's growth has been fuelled by a young, dynamic population, rapid urbanisation, and expanding technological advancements. The continent has emerged as a beacon of innovation and investment, unlocking opportunities across diverse sectors and positioning itself as a key player in shaping the global future. Despite strong economic performance and remarkable resilience, Africa's structural transformation has been gradual, highlighting the need for bold and decisive reforms by its governments. This session sets the stage for the next two days, providing a compelling introduction to Africa's challenges and the urgent actions required to address them.