The World Bank Group Institute Conference – Intangible Capital for Africa’s Growth
“Intangible Capital for Africa’s Growth: Building Data, Shaping Policy”
Date: 16 October 2025 — Time: 15:30–17:25 CET
Location: Rome / Online
The conference, held in Rome on October 16th, was jointly organized by the World Bank Group Institute for Economic Development, the Center for Development Data (C4D2), the Luiss Business School, and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The event was an opportunity to highlight the growing importance of intangible capital - knowledge, innovation, and data - as a key driver of sustainable and inclusive economic growth, particularly in Africa.
The event started with a welcome speech by Mrs. Francesca Lotti (IED) and Mr. Sacha Wunsch-Vincent (WIPO), followed by the presentation of the Global INTAN Invest project by Prof. Cecilia Jona-Lasinio (Luiss Business School), illustrating the key findings of the 2025 World Intangible Investment Highlights report and the relevance of expanding this initiative to African economies. Afterwards, a panel discussion on “Intangible Investment and Development: Bridging Global Insights and Africa’s Policy Priorities” featured Mr. Lukovi Seke (AUDA-NEPAD), Prof. Bernardo Ribeiro (EIEF), Mr. Jose Pablo Valdes Martinez (DEC-DG), Ms. Chiara Criscuolo (IFC), and Mr. Somik Lall (DEC), was moderated by Mr. Federico Polidoro (DEC-DG, C4D2). The debate addressed data gaps, measurement challenges, and the need to strengthen national statistical systems across Africa.
Participants emphasized the need of fostering international cooperation, developing harmonized data methodologies, and evidence-based policymaking as crucial features for leveraging intangible assets for growth in developing economies. Intangible capital is a cornerstone of modern economies and essential to achieving inclusive and sustainable development. By aligning global expertise with Africa’s policy priorities, the conference showcased how initiatives like Global INTAN Invest can unlock new opportunities for long-term prosperity.
More info about the event can be found here.