Corporate governance should be viewed as a strategic growth asset rather than an administrative burden, according to corporate lawyer and Business Development Executive, Gift Enwere. She noted that while many African businesses possess the innovation and ambition to scale, some may face challenges in building enduring institutions where governance structures have not kept pace with growth. According to her, effective governance provides a foundation for accountability, sound decision-making, effective risk management, and sustainable growth. Enwere explained that capital discipline remains a key benefit of good governance, enabling businesses to deploy resources efficiently, improve operational performance, and create long-term value rather than pursuing short-term gains. She further described governance as the infrastructure upon which resilient businesses can be built, noting that strong internal controls, clear leadership structures, and succession planning can enhance investor confidence and business continuity. According to Gift Enwere, African businesses must adopt a long-term orientation, prioritising the development of enduring institutions over short-term valuations. She added that businesses with robust governance frameworks may be better positioned to attract investment, compete across borders, and take advantage of opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). She urged business leaders to reposition corporate governance as a strategic investment, maintaining that sustainable economic growth in Africa will depend not only on creating more businesses but also on building institutions capable of lasting for generations.
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