“This started as a grassroots movement. It happened without foreign investment, without government aid. It happened against the odds.” — Filmmaker Franco Sacchi on Nollywood, Nigeria’s $250M/year industry

“There’s no such thing as African science. There’s no such thing as American science. Science is science.” — Entrepreneur Moses Makayoto

“The US today could not have been built without Africa’s aid. It was our resources — including human resources — that built that country. And when they try to give back, we shouldn’t be on the defensive. The issue is: how we are using what is being given back.” — Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

“It’s important for today’s business leaders not only to know their business, but to have a passion for something that’s meaningful” – Hector Ruiz, CEO of AMD

“If I do something wrong, someone will say so. There’s greater oversight and power in parliament than there used to be. And it’s more difficult for leaders to be as reckless as they used to be in the past.” — Tanzanian President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete

“No you’re not.” — Kenyan Blogger/lawyer Ory Okolloh, commenting on the “I AM AFRICAN” campaign, featuring Gwyneth Paltrow with blue stripes on her face

“If you’re still feeling overdressed, feel free to remove your tie.” — TED Curator Chris Anderson, joking with Tanzanian President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, who had removed his jacket on stage, in recognition of TED’s casual dress code

“Every society must be intentional about educating its leaders” — Patrick Awuah, founder of Ashesi University in Ghana

“Right now, the circumstances under which you are born determine your life – I want to see that change. As Africans, we need to take responsibility for the future of the continent.” — Kenyan Blogger/lawyer Ory Okolloh