Kenya to host World Chambers Forum Africa Summit 2025

Leaders from around the world are expected to convene in Nairobi ahead of the anticipated World Chambers Forum Africa Summit 2025, which will be held at the Kenya International Convention Centre to discuss and explore collaborative opportunities on key issues affecting global economies.

The Africa Summit 2025 will be hosted by the World Chambers Federation (WCF) of the International Chamber of Commerce and the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) and is scheduled to happen from April 9 to 11, 2025.

The theme of the summit is “Africa’s Global Future: Integrated, Innovative, and Sustainable.''

It is expected to serve as a platform for fostering regional integration, advancing sustainable business practices and unlocking investment opportunities across Africa. 

Among its key focuses include boosting trade and investment, advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and fostering global partnerships. 

Participants from more than 70 countries, including 500 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), more than 300 entrepreneurs, Heads of State from across Africa, government officials, and global investors are expected to attend.

The goal is to promote inclusive and sustainable growth by fostering partnerships, sharing best practices and showcasing Africa’s readiness for international markets.

“This is the first ever WCF Summit to be held in Africa. It is an opportunity that is so unique to unite leaders from around the world to discuss and collaborate on key issues that affect our economies,'' John Denton, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce said.

''We are very confident that the discussions and the outcomes of the Summit will pave the way for meaningful progress and lasting impact.”

The Summit is projected to generate significant value in areas such as Foreign Direct Investments (FDI),  attracting over Sh1 billion in investment commitments through trade and business partnerships.

Other foreseen impacts are in tourism, where Kenya will get to showcase her vibrant tourism and hospitality sector, leveraging Nairobi as a gateway for African cultural and economic exploration and SME Growth by empowering 500 SMEs with access to global markets, funding opportunities, and mentorship to strengthen their role in value chains.

Other key themes include regional integration, sustainability, youth and gender inclusion and various collaborations through business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G).

Erick Rutto, President of KNCCI and Chairman International Conference of Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) Private Sector Forum stated, “This summit is a defining moment for Africa to assert its role as a global trade leader. It will demonstrate Africa’s readiness to seamlessly integrate into global value chains, leveraging its immense potential.''

''“By strengthening collaboration between governments, businesses, and chambers of commerce, we aim to drive innovation, enhance trade efficiency, and position Africa as a key player in the global economy.”