The World Chambers Federation (WCF), in collaboration with the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), will host the first-ever Africa Summit from April 9 to 11, 2025. This landmark event, set to take place at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, is poised to redefine Africa’s role in global trade and investment, while promoting sustainable development across the continent.

Bringing Global Leaders and Investors Together

The Africa Summit 2025 will assemble 4,500 participants, including African Heads of State and Government, over 500 Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs), 350 entrepreneurs, and global investors from more than 70 countries. This high-level event is expected to serve as a platform for exchanging ideas, fostering partnerships, and catalyzing economic growth in Africa.

The World Chambers Federation (WCF), a global network of over 3,000 chambers of commerce from more than 125 countries, aims to enhance collaboration between businesses, governments, and the public. Its role in organizing this summit underscores its commitment to driving economic transformation through innovation and integration.

A Defining Moment for Africa

KNCCI President Dr. Erick Rutto described the summit as a pivotal moment for Africa, providing an opportunity to showcase its readiness to integrate seamlessly into global value chains and leverage its untapped potential.

“Studies reveal that deeper integration within Africa could boost trade by $150 billion annually by 2030,” Dr. Rutto noted. “By fostering collaboration between governments, businesses, and chambers of commerce, we aim to position Africa as a central player in the global economy.”

The summit will focus on unlocking Africa’s vast economic potential by advancing initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which represents a market of 1.3 billion people and a combined GDP of $3.4 trillion.

Strategic Goals of the Summit

The Africa Summit 2025 has been designed to achieve several strategic objectives:

1. Boosting Trade and Investment: Enhancing regional integration and promoting intra-African trade, which is projected to grow by 52.3% by 2035, potentially adding $450 billion to Africa’s GDP.
2. Advancing AfCFTA Implementation: Facilitating seamless trade across borders, reducing tariffs, and increasing market accessibility.
3. Empowering SMEs: Providing 500 SMEs with access to global markets, funding opportunities, and mentorship programs, ensuring their active participation in global value chains.
4. Promoting Sustainability and Innovation: Highlighting the role of new technologies in solving local challenges and driving economic growth, particularly in the context of green infrastructure and renewable energy solutions.
5. Fostering Inclusivity: Supporting youth and women entrepreneurs to unlock an estimated $316 billion in GDP growth by 2025.

Kenya as a Gateway to Africa

KNCCI Chief Executive Officer Ahmed Farah emphasized that hosting the summit positions Kenya as a leader in global business and investment. Kenya’s strategic location and robust infrastructure make it an ideal gateway for investors looking to tap into African markets.

Former KNCCI President Richard Ngatia echoed these sentiments, highlighting the transformative role chambers of commerce play in driving economic growth. “This summit is a milestone in redefining the role of chambers of commerce as enablers of economic transformation,” Ngatia said.

The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Vice President and ICC Kenya President Eng. Patrick Obath added that the event demonstrates Africa’s readiness to engage on the global stage. “By promoting partnerships and supporting innovation, this summit will create a blueprint for sustainable growth and solidify Africa’s role in shaping the global economy,” he said.

Projected Economic Impact

The summit is expected to generate significant economic benefits, including:

• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Attracting over KES 1 billion in investment commitments through trade and business partnerships.
• Tourism and Cultural Exchange: Showcasing Nairobi as a hub for African cultural and economic exploration, further boosting tourism revenues.
• SME Development: Equipping SMEs with resources to expand their global footprint, enhancing their competitiveness and sustainability.

Aligning with Africa’s Infrastructure Needs

Africa’s annual infrastructure financing gap is estimated at $130–$170 billion. The summit will prioritize solutions that align with these needs, including green technologies, sustainable infrastructure, and public-private partnerships. These initiatives aim to mobilize resources and accelerate development across the continent.

Youth and Gender Inclusion

With Africa’s population projected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, the continent’s youth and women entrepreneurs represent a vast reservoir of untapped potential. The summit will prioritize initiatives to empower these groups, ensuring their active participation in economic development.

Programs will include mentorship opportunities, funding access, and targeted initiatives to bridge the gender gap in business, aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Technology and Innovation at the Forefront

The summit will emphasize the transformative role of technology in driving growth and addressing local challenges. Discussions will cover topics such as:

• Digital Transformation: Leveraging digital platforms to enhance trade efficiency and accessibility.
• Renewable Energy Solutions: Promoting green technologies to meet Africa’s growing energy demands sustainably.
• Smart Infrastructure: Implementing data-driven solutions for urban development and transportation.

The Road Ahead

The Africa Summit 2025 promises to be a game-changer for the continent, providing a platform for collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth. By bringing together leaders from diverse sectors, the event aims to build a foundation for an Africa that is not only a participant but a leader in the global economy.

As preparations continue, stakeholders are optimistic about the summit’s potential to unlock new opportunities and drive meaningful change. With its focus on inclusivity, innovation, and sustainability, the Africa Summit 2025 is set to position the continent as a dynamic hub for trade and investment in the 21st century.

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photo source: Google

By: Montel Kamau

Serrari Financial Analyst

16^th January, 2024