The Bahamas to Host Major Afreximbank Summits in 2024
Afreximbank champions intra-African trade and economic integration across Africa and with diaspora remittances nations.
NASSAU, Bahamas— The Commonwealth of The Bahamas has been selected to host the African Export-Import Bank's (Afreximbank) 31st Annual Meetings and the third AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum in June 2024, writes Baboloki Semele.
The back-to-back events, scheduled for June 12-14 in Nassau, mark the first time the annual Afreximbank meetings will be held in the Caribbean region.
"This is a landmark decision that will see Afreximbank's Annual Meetings travel to the Caribbean for the first time," said Prof. Benedict Oramah, Afreximbank's president.
He noted promising economic prospects for African and Caribbean nations, highlighting the importance of strengthening ties between the regions to foster growth and prosperity.
The theme "Owning Our Destiny: Economic Prosperity on the Platform of Global Africa" aims to explore policy solutions promoting development across African and Caribbean communities while boosting intra-regional trade, investment and diaspora engagement.
In a globally streamed signing ceremony, Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis said hosting the events allows the nation to leverage shared histories and cultural ties to enhance trade, investment and transportation links with Africa and the Caribbean.
"This will drive economic development and wider societal benefits," Davis said. He also stressed the need for a unified voice on issues like climate change.
The agenda features an opening ceremony, presidential plenary and panel discussions on emerging protectionism and pursuing self-determination within an inclusive global African and Caribbean framework.
The June 14 AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum will include cultural celebrations highlighting the regions' shared socioeconomic goals.
Oramah said shifting attitudes of major economies towards trade underscore the need for self-reliance and economic prosperity through a "Global Africa" approach bringing together the African continent and its diaspora.
The Bahamas aims to boost global connections as protectionism rises in advanced economies.
Afreximbank champions intra-African trade and economic integration across Africa and with diaspora remittances nations.