LAGOS — Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Aruwa Capital Management, Adesuwa Okunbo Rhodes, has underscored the need for a robust investment ecosystem to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), saying Africa’s sustainable economic growth depends on connecting visionary entrepreneurs with long-term capital and strategic partnerships.

Speaking at the 4th Aruwa Capital Annual Investor Meeting in Lagos, Okunbo Rhodes said the event was more than an annual business gathering, describing it as a celebration of the ecosystem Aruwa Capital has built with its investors, portfolio companies, Investment Committee, Advisory Board, strategic partners and employees.

According to her, SMEs remain at the heart of Africa’s economic transformation by creating jobs, strengthening local value chains and driving innovation across sectors.

She added that increased investment in women-led businesses presents a major opportunity to accelerate inclusive economic growth, boost employment and unlock the continent’s full economic potential.

Okunbo Rhodes stressed that private capital is not limited to providing financing but also involves building long-term partnerships that enable entrepreneurs to grow sustainable and impactful businesses.

“As I looked across the room, I saw founders who have evolved into leaders of transformative businesses, demonstrating the impact of long-term support and collaboration,” she said.

The event also featured the third edition of the Aruwa Investor Meeting Awards, which recognised outstanding achievements by portfolio companies and entrepreneurs in innovation, climate leadership, manufacturing, healthcare, financial inclusion, resilience, social impact and value chain development.

Okunbo Rhodes expressed appreciation to members of the firm’s Investment Committee, Advisory Board, investors and strategic partners for their continued confidence and support.

She reaffirmed Aruwa Capital Management’s commitment to strengthening Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing growth capital and strategic support that will enable SMEs to scale, create quality jobs and deliver lasting economic and social impact across the continent.

The annual investor meeting and awards ceremony was held at the Wheatbaker Hotel in Ikoyi, Lagos, bringing together investors, business leaders, entrepreneurs and development partners committed to advancing sustainable enterprise growth in Africa.