Africa’s billionaire businessman and President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has been named Grand Patron of the Global Entrepreneurship Festival 2026.

The appointment was announced after members of the festival’s board visited Dangote and formally presented him with the role.

During the visit, the organisers also recognised the industrialist for his contributions to entrepreneurship, business growth and economic development across Africa.

The delegation was led by the President of the Global Entrepreneurship Festival, Dr Summy Smart Francis.

The organisers said Dangote’s experience in building businesses and investing in various sectors made his involvement significant to the entrepreneurship movement.

The appointment was facilitated by the festival’s Vice Chairman, Dr Elizabeth Jack-Rich, who helped establish the relationship between the organisers and Dangote.

The festival said having Dangote as Grand Patron would strengthen its efforts to connect established business leaders, investors and institutions with emerging entrepreneurs.

It added that the partnership is expected to support efforts to create more opportunities for entrepreneurs and promote business-led economic development across Africa.

The 2026 Global Entrepreneurship Festival is scheduled to take place in Egypt from November 6 to 8. The event is expected to bring together entrepreneurs, investors, innovators, business executives, policymakers and other stakeholders from different parts of the world.