The Africa Economic Leadership Council (AELC) has successfully concluded the landmark Invest in Africa Trade Expo & Business Summit 2026, marking a decisive shift from policy frameworks to active frontier markets.
Held from 28–30 May 2026 in the coastal hub of Swakopmund, Namibia, the high-level gathering brought together more than 200 business delegates, policymakers, and global investors. The three-day convention focused entirely on driving intra-African trade and translating regional trade agreements into practical AfCFTA business opportunities across diverse economic sectors.
Unlocking African Markets and AfCFTA Business Opportunities
Convened under the urgent theme “From Framework to Frontier: Unlocking African Markets,” the summit served as a premier platform for advancing the discourse on African economic integration. Attendees engaged in strategic, time-sensitive discussions aimed at removing cross-border trade barriers, strengthening regional value chains, and securing funding pathways for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The event successfully pushed policy aspirations toward measurable economic outcomes that benefit local businesses and communities. A major highlight of the summit was the vibrant Invest in Africa Trade Expo pavilion. The exhibition floor featured more than 100 exhibitors representing mining, energy, tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, finance, logistics, and technology. This dynamic marketplace allowed local firms to showcase innovations while forging cross-border commercial relationships.
High-Level Dialogues Advance African Economic Integration
The daily agenda tackled deep structural issues to accelerate industrial development. Day One opened with a direct analysis of sustainable industrialisation and methods for expanding intra-African trade. Day Two featured corporate roundtables on infrastructure development, regional connectivity, and financial pathways for expanding businesses. Day Three concluded with private deal rooms, business-to-business matchmaking sessions, and investment facilitation dialogues designed to lock in long-term capital.
The summit was honoured by the participation of an esteemed delegation of government leaders, diplomats, and industry experts. Hon. Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, Minister of International Relations and Trade, delivered the keynote address on behalf of Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia. The speech firmly reaffirmed Namibia’s commitment to continental integration, trade facilitation, and investment promotion.
Policy Leaders Drive Intra-African Trade
The summit welcomed H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat. His participation underscored the critical importance of converting regulatory frameworks into real-world assets for corporate investors.
The diplomatic corps strongly supported the push for African economic integration, represented by:
- H.E. Melody Chaurura, Ambassador of the Republic of Zimbabwe to Namibia
- H.E. Caesar C. Waitara**, High Commissioner of the United Republic of Tanzania to Namibia
- H.E. Abdelkrim Diaf, Ambassador of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria
- Mr Ishak Elacheache, Deputy Head of Mission of the United Republic of Tanzania
Local governance partners also joined the call to expand AfCFTA business opportunities. Dr Mupenzi Sam Ntelamo, Chief Regional Officer of the Erongo Regional Council, and Her Worship Suama Kautondokwa, Mayor of Swakopmund, highlighted how local authorities create stable environments for industrial growth. Further key support came from Mr Heinrich Hafeni and Mr Percy Morapedi Koji, Co-Founders of the AELC, alongside Dr Panduleni Itula, Leader of the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC).
Translating Frameworks into Economic Reality
The delegation emphasised the need to simplify the movement of African goods, accelerate local resource processing, and ensure that women and youth-led firms join the modern trade ecosystem.
Reflecting on the final outcomes of the Invest in Africa Trade Expo, AELC leadership noted that the event proved Africa’s readiness to capture emerging markets through sustained public-private collaboration.
The connections established in Swakopmund are expected to boost job creation and regional integration. As the 2026 edition closes, the AELC remains committed to driving continental transformation. Africa is open for business, and Namibia is ready to lead.
