Gervais Djondo: The Togolese Visionary Building Africa’s Economic Future

When most people think of African business success stories, they picture the institutions rather than the individuals behind them. But behind two of Africa’s most influential pan-African companies stands one remarkable Togolese entrepreneur: Gervais Koffi Djondo.

From Public Service to Pan-African Vision

Born in 1934 in Aneho, Togo, Djondo’s path to entrepreneurship was unconventional. He began his career in Togo’s public sector, serving as head of the country’s social security fund before becoming Minister of Industry and Public Enterprises. These experiences gave him a deep understanding of Africa’s economic challenges and a conviction that the continent’s future must be shaped from within.

Breaking Banking Barriers: The Birth of Ecobank

In 1985, Djondo and Nigerian businessman Adeyemi Lawson co-founded Ecobank with a bold ambition: to create Africa’s first truly pan-African banking institution. At a time when Western-owned banks dominated the continent’s financial sector, this was a revolutionary idea.

The journey wasn’t easy. After numerous rejections, they partnered with Citibank to establish the bank in less than a year. The headquarters was set up in Lomé not because Djondo was Togolese, but because Togo was the only country willing to grant the necessary offshore tax status.

Today, Ecobank operates in over 35 African countries, proving that an African-owned bank can compete at the highest level while strengthening intra-African trade and financial inclusion.

Taking to the Skies: Asky Airlines

Djondo didn’t stop at banking. When Air Afrique collapsed in 2002, leaving a massive gap in African aviation, he saw another opportunity for pan-African integration. In 2010, he launched Asky Airlines as a regional carrier designed to connect African cities directly, without routing through European hubs.

Unlike many African airlines that struggled with political interference and mismanagement, Asky was built with commercial viability at its core. Now serving destinations across West and Central Africa, the airline has become a vital link in the continent’s connectivity.

A Legacy of Integration

At 90 years old, Djondo remains chairman of Asky Airlines and a passionate advocate for African economic unity. His recently published book, L’Afrique d’abord (Africa First), calls on leaders to move beyond colonial-era economic models and build a future based on collaboration and homegrown innovation.

For young African entrepreneurs, Djondo’s career offers invaluable lessons. As he himself advises: “Courage and persistence are key characteristics needed for entrepreneurs in Africa today.” His success demonstrates that with clear direction, bold execution, and the right team, African entrepreneurs can build institutions that transform the entire continent.

Gervais Koffi Djondo may not always receive the recognition his institutions do, but his impact on African economic integration is undeniable. Through Ecobank and Asky Airlines, he hasn’t just built successful businesses—he’s helped build the infrastructure for Africa’s economic future.