The Managing Director of Africa at Global Citizen, Iphie Chuks-Adizue, has emphasized the importance of partnerships, local talent development, and capacity building as key strategies to unlock Africa’s creative economy. In an interview, she also highlighted the critical need for African nations to increase domestic health financing to strengthen public health systems.
A Passion for Advocacy
Before joining Global Citizen, Chuks-Adizue was deeply involved in humanitarian and philanthropic work. She is the founder of the Uncommon Woman Movement, an online platform dedicated to supporting career women in achieving greater impact and fulfillment. She is also the author of two books: The Uncommon Woman and Made for MORE.
Global Citizen’s Mission
Global Citizen is a leading international advocacy organization on a mission to end extreme poverty. Since its inception in 2008, the organization has mobilized $49 billion in commitments, impacting 1.3 billion lives. With teams operating across the globe, including in Lagos and Johannesburg, Global Citizen leverages the power of music, entertainment, and advocacy to drive change.
Why Music as a Medium?
Chuks-Adizue explained that music has always been a powerful tool for social change. Global Citizen’s unique “pop meets policy” model uses music and entertainment to mobilize mass action. “Artists genuinely want to use their platforms to make the world better,” she said. “When fans take action and speak truth to power with a united voice, decision-makers are forced to listen.”
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Move Afrika: A Game-Changer for Africa’s Creative Economy
In 2023, Global Citizen launched Move Afrika, a multi-city tour across Africa aimed at stimulating the continent’s creative economy. The inaugural event, Move Afrika: Rwanda, held in Kigali, featured Grammy Award-winning artist Kendrick Lamar and employed over 1,000 Rwandans, with 75% of the crew and production staff being locals.
The initiative seeks to create jobs, support entrepreneurship, and build the technical and logistical frameworks needed for large-scale music tours in Africa. “By showing that music touring is viable in Africa, we hope to attract more artists and boost economic growth,” Chuks-Adizue said.
Expanding Move Afrika in 2025
The 2025 edition of Move Afrika will expand to West Africa, with concerts in Kigali, Rwanda, and Lagos, Nigeria. EGOT-winning artist John Legend will headline the events, alongside performances by local artists. The tour will also drive a citizen-led advocacy campaign focused on strengthening health systems across Africa.
“We are urging African nations to increase domestic health financing, prioritize primary care, and boost global investments in health resilience,” Chuks-Adizue stated. Global Citizens can earn free tickets to the concerts by taking action on these issues through the Global Citizen app or WhatsApp.
Addressing Skepticism
For those skeptical about the impact of international advocacy organizations, Chuks-Adizue emphasized the importance of local partnerships and understanding. “Ending extreme poverty requires political will, funding, and collaboration between global and local stakeholders. Sustainable impact happens when we work together,” she said.
How to Support Global Citizen
Individuals can support Global Citizen’s initiatives by downloading the app, taking action, and earning tickets to events like Move Afrika. Corporations can partner with Global Citizen or purchase VIP Experience Packages to contribute to the organization’s mission.
Final Words
Chuks-Adizue encouraged readers to join the movement. “Be a part of making a difference today! Visit MoveAfrika.org to earn or purchase tickets and support the growth of Africa’s creative economy.”
