Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire — The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) concluded the 2025 edition of the Africa Trade Finance Summit (#ATFS2025) with a compelling message on Africa’s economic resilience, collaboration, and the future of trade finance.
In his closing address, Mr. Haytham El Maayergi, Executive Vice-President of Afreximbank’s Global Trade Bank, reflected on a week filled with deep dialogue, learning, and collaboration among policy makers, financial institutions, and trade professionals from across the continent and beyond.
Mr. El Maayergi emphasized that Africa’s transformation depends on its ability to align trade finance with industrialization and inclusive growth. He noted that while Africa is often perceived as a high-risk investment destination, the reality on the ground tells a very different story—one of opportunity, growth, and resilience.
“Africa’s perceived risk is far removed from its market reality,” he said, calling for a rethink of global narratives about doing business on the continent. “What we need is greater awareness, education, and capacity building to empower African professionals and institutions to seize the immense opportunities available.”
He reaffirmed that #ATFS2025 was created precisely to build this capacity—by providing a collaborative platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, share best practices, and develop innovative solutions to the continent’s trade finance challenges.
Throughout the summit, discussions focused on strengthening Africa’s trade ecosystems, expanding access to finance for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and leveraging digital innovation to facilitate cross-border trade. Sessions also explored how public-private partnerships can accelerate industrialization and foster sustainable economic growth.
Closing the event, Mr. El Maayergi reiterated Afreximbank’s ongoing commitment to collaboration, innovation, and practical financial solutions tailored to Africa’s unique context.
“Afreximbank remains steadfast in its mission to empower African institutions to meet their clients’ needs, strengthen intra-African trade, and drive the continent’s long-term development agenda,” he affirmed.
The #ATFS2025 Summit, held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, brought together a diverse array of participants, including government representatives, central bankers, trade experts, development finance institutions, and private sector leaders. The event served as a dynamic forum to chart a more integrated and resilient future for African trade and industry.
With the conclusion of this year’s summit, Afreximbank once again reinforced its leadership role in shaping Africa’s trade narrative—one rooted in confidence, cooperation, and inclusive growth.
ANTHONY EMEKA NWOSU
