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Tune in to ‘Handing Over the Mic’, a new podcast series where influential voices from the Global South share their perspectives on Europe – its past, present and future.

Vera Songwe. Image courtesy of the interviewee.

15 Sep 2025
1. Podcast

‘Nobody ever asked the Europeans, are you going to go to the East or the West? Why does Africa have to pick?’

Handing Over the Mic with Vera Songwe

Christine Mhundwa and Elisa Díaz Gras

1. Production and Distribution

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53:43

In this episode, we hand over the mic to Vera Songwe, renowned economist and global leader in development, finance and policy. In 2017 she made history as the first woman to lead the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) at the rank of Under Secretary General. In 2020, Forbes recognized her as one of Africa’s 50 most powerful women.

Songwe currently serves as chair and founder of the Board of the Liquidity and Sustainability Facility and co-chair of the Food System Economics Commission, which supports the transformation of global food and land use systems.

In this episode, hosts Christine Mhundwa, Elisa Díaz Gras and Vera Songwe discuss Africa’s evolving relationship with Europe and the global economy, emphasizing the need for equitable trade and meaningful partnerships. Songwe examines Africa’s strategic and independent role on the international stage and highlights the continent’s potential in areas such as climate action, food security, industrial development and youth education, while calling for innovative policies, investment and leadership.

Behind the scenes of BIG's conversation with Vera Songwe.

Production and Distribution

Episodes will be available on major platforms, including Acast, Apple Podcasts and Spotify and also featured on the homepages of BIG and our partner the European Cultural Foundation.