General Lunch

According to the World Bank, The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) is poised to make Africa the largest trade area/zone in terms of market size, creating a market of 1.3 billion people across 55 countries and a combined GDP of approx. $3.4 Trillion. Many have posited it as a game change-changer with the potential to transform African economies and significantly raise Africa’s share of global trade and investment flows and shift the direction and composition of FDI to Africa, positioning the region as an increasingly dynamic force in the international arena. How can Africa leverage the AfCFTA to enhance its global competitiveness and compete in the new global era?

Come hear industry stalwarts take center stage to unravel the intricacies of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). Against the backdrop of this historic agreement, the keynote will explore strategic visions, challenges, and opportunities presented by the AfCFTA as well as delve into the private sector's role in innovation, infrastructure development, and the imperative of collaborative efforts in repositioning Africa on the global economic stage.

Despite Africa contributing <4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, the continent and its people will be disproportionately affected by the impact of climate change. Innovative ClimateTech solutions are supporting not just emissions mitigation in growing African economies, but also supporting climate adaptation to make African businesses and communities more climate-resilient in the face of extreme weather events and shifting climate patterns. Our panel discussion will also highlight how these solutions are paving the way for economic growth and improving living standards. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on how innovating and investing in African ClimateTech is driving sustainable growth and competitiveness.

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This session is dedicated to exploring the intricate social fabric of African nations and their influence on the global stage. We'll delve into topics such as innovation, cultural influence, economic development, and the challenges and opportunities faced by African countries in today's interconnected world and explore subjects like gender equality, cultural narratives, and the interplay between social development and economic progress in African countries. This is a unique opportunity to gain insights from one of the most articulate voices on African development and global competitiveness.

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