The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has announced that Kisumu, Kenya, will host the 4th African Sub-Sovereign Government Network (AfSNET) Investment Conference from November 25 to 27, 2024. Themed “Leveraging the AfCFTA for Sustainable Trade and Investment: A Development Pathway for African Sub-Sovereigns,” the conference aims to boost intra-African trade and investment by empowering local governments and fostering regional economic integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Building on the success of the inaugural conference in Durban, South Africa, during the 2021 Intra-African Trade Fair, this year’s forum will feature key leaders such as H.E. Dr. William Ruto, President of Kenya, and H.E. Prof. Benedict Oramah, President of Afreximbank. The event will bring together governors, trade officials, private sector leaders, and representatives from Africa’s diaspora and development partners.
Discussions will focus on expanding partnerships between sub-sovereign governments and investors, promoting trade-enabling digital platforms like the African Trade Gateway, and positioning Kisumu as a rising investment hub. Key objectives include empowering local governments to foster sustainable growth, promoting Afreximbank’s trade facilitation tools, and highlighting Kisumu’s role in regional development.
Governor Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o of Kisumu remarked, “This conference is an opportunity to showcase Kisumu’s strategic position in Africa’s trade ecosystem while fostering impactful partnerships.”
Prominent figures such as Wamkele Mene, Secretary General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, and Jean Pierre Elong Mbassi, Secretary General of United Cities and Local Governments of Africa, will also participate. The 4th AfSNET Conference aims to advance deeper integration and collaboration for the continent’s economic and industrial growth.