Africa’s foremost industrialist and President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has been named Grand Patron of the Global Entrepreneurship Festival (GEF).

The appointment was formally presented during a visit by the GEF Board to Dangote, where the business leader was also honoured for his contributions to entrepreneurship, business development and economic transformation across Africa.

The delegation was led by the President of GEF, Dr. Summy Smart Francis.

During the engagement, Dangote was recognised for his decades of experience in building businesses and investing across key sectors of the African economy.

The appointment was facilitated by Dr. Elizabeth Jack-Rich, Vice Chairman of the Global Entrepreneurship Festival, who played a key role in bringing the GEF leadership and Dangote together.

The organisers said the engagement reflects the festival’s commitment to connecting established African business leaders with the next generation of entrepreneurs.

GEF said Dangote’s involvement would help deepen its engagement with business leaders, investors and institutions capable of expanding opportunities for entrepreneurs.

The festival also seeks to promote enterprise-led economic development across Africa and strengthen the continent’s position in the global entrepreneurship ecosystem.

The 2026 edition of the Global Entrepreneurship Festival is scheduled to be held in Egypt from November 6 to 8.

The event is expected to bring together entrepreneurs, investors, business leaders, innovators, policymakers and institutions from different parts of the world.