The inaugural Africa Trade Conference 2025 (ATC 2025) is poised to be a landmark event, gathering some of the most influential voices in global trade and finance. Scheduled for March 12, 2025, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) in South Africa, this conference promises to spotlight the pivotal role of trade around the continent.
Hosted by Access Bank PLC, the ATC 2025 will convene a diverse group of global leaders, policymakers, and industry experts. The central theme of the conference, “Empowering Africa: Driving Trade, Innovation, and Sustainable Prosperity,” reflects a commitment to shaping the future of Africa’s economic landscape. This theme is not only timely but also critical, given the continent’s ongoing efforts to enhance trade relations and foster sustainable development.
One of the highlights of the conference will be the keynote address delivered by H.E. Wamkele Mene, the Secretary-General of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Mene’s insights will center on how AfCFTA can act as a catalyst for economic growth and industrialization across Africa. Given the transformative potential of the AfCFTA, this address is sure to be a significant moment for attendees looking to understand the policy direction of African trade initiatives.
Alongside Mene, notable speakers including Kanayo Awani, the Executive Vice President of the Africa Export-Import Bank, will shed light on the opportunities and challenges currently shaping Africa’s trade landscape. Awani’s experience in financing trade deals and promoting intra-African trade will enrich discussions, providing invaluable perspectives for entrepreneurs and policymakers alike.
Dr. Marc Auboin, a counselor at the World Trade Organization, will address the impact of digitization and innovation on the continent’s global trade potential. In a rapidly turning digital age, understanding how technology can streamline trade processes and enhance competitiveness is paramount. Dr. Auboin’s expertise will help attendees grasp the intersection of technology and trade, aligning with contemporary global trends.
Moreover, the conference will feature insights from Roosevelt Ogbonna, Group Managing Director and CEO of Access Bank PLC. Ogbonna brings a wealth of experience in banking and finance, ensuring that financial strategies in trade discussions are adequately represented. His vision for Access Bank’s role in fostering intra-African trade will resonate strongly, especially with stakeholders interested in the banking sector’s contribution to economic growth.
The event’s location in Cape Town adds an extra layer of significance, as the city has long been a hub for trade and commerce in Southern Africa. Attendees will not only engage with leading thinkers and policy makers but also experience the rich cultural backdrop of South Africa, known for its vibrant economic activity and innovation.
The ATC 2025 is also expected to facilitate networking opportunities, allowing participants to connect with like-minded professionals and explore potential collaborations. This aspect of the conference is crucial as it encourages the sharing of ideas and strategies across different sectors, enriching the discourse around trade and innovation.
As the date approaches, anticipation builds around how the discussions at this conference will shape the narrative of African trade in the coming years. With such a distinguished lineup of speakers and a strong focus on actionable strategies for growth, ATC 2025 aims to leave an indelible mark on the future of trade in Africa.
