The first presentation of "An Uncommon Enterprise: Strengthening Entrepreneurial Ecosystems in Sub-Saharan Africa", the new book by Fondazione Aurora, took place at the Chiomenti Auditorium in Milan on March 26. Fondazione Aurora is an Italian non-profit organization bringing together professionals with extensive experience in international cooperation. The event gathered experts from the third sector, African entrepreneurs, and institutional representatives, providing a platform for a multi-level discussion on the book’s themes.

Lawyer Michele Carpinelli, President of Fondazione Aurora, opened the event by emphasizing the importance of listening to local realities and the role of the third sector in supporting entrepreneurs. Marco Riccardo Rusconi, Director of AICS, highlighted the role of Italian cooperation in Africa, particularly focusing on the Mattei Plan and investments in youth education and the empowerment of women.

Abdel-Nasser Daoud Kinefour, Senior Programme Officer at the African Union Development Agency – NEPAD, outlined the agency’s strategic vision for fostering a sustainable business environment.

Field experts also took part in the discussion, including Mario Molteni (E4Impact), Luca Turello (illycaffè), Samir de Sousa (SABE), Arsène Héma (InViis), and Bezawit Fantu (Ethiopia), in a panel moderated by Il Sole 24 Ore journalist Alberto Magnani.

Marta Sachy, Executive Director of Fondazione Aurora, closed the event by stressing the importance of a shared vision and trust in progress, acknowledging current geopolitical challenges and difficulties. She reiterated that development must respect local dynamics and enhance the entrepreneurial spirit of young Africans as a key to success.