Akon ditched the stage for the high brow African Summit held in Washington this week. The “I Wanna Love You” artist hobnobbed with African leaders and promoted his Lighting Africa org that aims to light up over 1 million homes in rural areas of Africa with solar energy this year.

Learn more about Akon Lighting Africa mission with the org’s video tracking their progress.

The Senegal native chatted with Politico about the overlooked economic value of Africa and its resources by Americans. And explained why celebs are “intimidated” by social activism.

He says every little thing gets blown up when a celeb is attached to it (word) and when putting your famous name behind a social cause is a major responsibility. Unless of course, everyone does it (cough, #savingourdaughters) together.

To check out Akon’s full full interview click here