Nairobi is making history this week as it welcomes the first-ever World Chambers Federation (WCF) Africa Summit on April 9–10, 2025, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Upper Hill. This landmark event marks the first time the WCF Regional Summit is being held in Africa, signaling the continent’s rising influence in global trade and economic discourse.
Under the theme “Africa’s Global Future: Integrated, Innovative, and Sustainable,” the summit brings together chambers of commerce, business leaders, policymakers, and innovators to shape Africa’s economic trajectory. A key focus is the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the world’s largest free trade zone by participating countries. Discussions will center on overcoming barriers to its implementation, unlocking Africa’s $3.4 trillion consumer market, and integrating the continent into global value chains.
- AfCFTA Implementation – Experts will address non-tariff barriers, regulatory challenges, and trade facilitation measures to boost intra-African trade.
- Women’s Economic Empowerment – Sessions will explore policy reforms and financial access to enhance women’s participation in trade.
- Digital Trade & Innovation – Entrepreneurs and tech leaders will discuss digitizing trade ecosystems and helping SMEs access global markets.
The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), in partnership with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), is spearheading the event. KNCCI’s leadership reinforces Nairobi’s role as a continental business hub, while the ICC’s global network amplifies Africa’s voice in international.
Africa’s economic potential is undeniable, but challenges like trade barriers, financing gaps, and infrastructure deficits persist. The WCF Africa Summit provides a platform to forge partnerships, share best practices, and drive policy changes that will shape Africa’s trade future.
As Nairobi takes center stage, this summit is more than a conference it’s a catalyst for Africa’s global economic integration. The outcomes could redefine how the continent engages with the world, ensuring sustainable growth, innovation, and inclusive trade for years to come.
For businesses and policymakers, this is a must-watch event one that could determine Africa’s place in the future of global commerce.
