Recent global macroeconomic disruption from the Covid-19 pandemic and further escalated by Russia’s war on Ukraine has disturbed international supply chains. For African economies, strengthening local production is of paramount importance to ensure a successful and sustainable recovery from external economic shocks and strengthen the region’s economic base for the future. This calls for investment to reshape Africa’s participation in global value chains. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) can work to optimise the continent’s economic potential to foster stronger regional value chains while tackling barriers to trade and investment, as unlocking intra-regional trade is central to driving Africa’s growth, creating jobs, and expanding prosperity.
However, weak infrastructure and logistical challenges have dampened Africa’s ability to maximise the value of its resources and participate fully in global trade. As more businesses are taking their operations online, there is room for greater logistical innovation as part of a wider mission to promote further industrialisation across the continent. The AfCFTA promises to make accessible the continent’s market of 1.2 billion people. Industrialisation is the next essential step, yet its success hinges on logistical improvements. In this session, the panel will discuss industrialisation, including logistics, for businesses in Africa and associated potential investment opportunities.
Running order:
Lunch: 12:00 – 13:00
Panel Discussion: 13:00-14:00
Networking 14:00- 14:30
Moderator: Ben Woodhams
Partner, Africa Desk | Knight Frank
Opening Presentation: Faisal Durani
Partner - Head of Middle East Research | Knight Frank
Speakers:
Tinashe Makoni, General Counsel | Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG)
Managing Director & Head of Financial Institutions, British Arab Commercial Bank