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Nairobi is set to host the inaugural World Chamber Federation (WCF) Africa Global Summit, aiming to inject $450 billion (Sh58.1 trillion) into the African economy.

The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KNCCI) Chief Executive Officer Ahmed Farah described the summit as a historic milestone for the African continent, bringing together over 4,500 delegates from 70 countries.

Participants will include heads of state, policymakers, entrepreneurs, innovators, and government leaders, converging from April 9 to 11, 2025, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) to discuss critical economic issues and opportunities.

“This is a big opportunity not just for Kenya, but for Africa to showcase its immense potential through best practices, fostering partnerships, and harnessing the extensive opportunities available in the global market,” Farah said.

The summit’s primary goal is to bolster intra-African trade, which currently stands at a modest 13 to 14 per cent.

Increasing Africa trade

Leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) platform, the event aspires to raise this figure to an ambitious 52 per cent, according to KNCCI president Erick Rutto. “All of Africa’s private sector will come together to discuss and explore ways to increase intra-Africa trade through AfCFTA,” Rutto stated during a press conference.

The summit is expected to provide substantial opportunities for over 500 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through exhibitions and Business to Government (B2G) engagements, fostering collaboration and innovation. Under the theme “Africa’s Global Future,” the event rev up the continent’s participation in global trade, which currently accounts for only 3 per cent of the worldwide market.

Organized in collaboration with the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), the summit represents a platform for meaningful dialogue and action, propelling Africa towards a more significant role in the global economy.