Nairobi is set to make history as it hosts the inaugural World Chambers Federation (WCF) Africa Summit on April 9–10, 2025, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Upper Hill. This landmark event marks the first WCF Regional Summit to be held on African soil, a significant milestone in the continent’s economic trajectory and a bold statement of Africa’s growing influence in global trade discourse.
Under the theme, “Africa’s Global Future: Integrated, Innovative, and Sustainable,” the WCF Africa Summit 2025 will convene an unprecedented assembly of global chambers of commerce, business leaders, policymakers, and innovators. Together, they will engage in transformative dialogues aimed at reshaping Africa’s economic narrative and positioning the continent as a key player in international trade.
At the heart of these discussions is the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) — the world’s largest free trade area by number of participating countries. The Summit will explore ways to unlock AfCFTA’s full potential, enabling integration into global value chains and providing access to Africa’s rapidly expanding consumer market, projected at $3.4 trillion.
The Summit’s dynamic two-day program will address pressing issues and strategic opportunities across the continent, with a spotlight on:
- AfCFTA Implementation Challenges: High-level keynote addresses and panels will explore non-tariff barriers, regulatory hurdles, and essential trade facilitation measures.
- Women’s Economic Empowerment: Sessions will focus on dismantling barriers for women in trade and business, with insights into policy reforms and access to financing.
- Digital Trade and Innovation: Industry experts and young entrepreneurs will delve into digitizing trade ecosystems, supporting SME innovation, and creating pathways to global markets.
At the helm of this transformative summit is the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), a leading advocate for Kenya’s business community. KNCCI plays a central role in advancing trade and investment opportunities and in enhancing Kenya’s competitiveness as a regional business hub.
The event is co-hosted by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the world’s largest business organization, representing more than 45 million companies across 100+ countries. The World Chambers Federation (WCF), a division of ICC, connects over 12,000 chambers of commerce worldwide, promoting collaboration, innovation, and inclusive growth. Established under the auspices of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the WCF aims to enhance the effectiveness and reach of chambers worldwide, serving as a vital intermediary between business, government, and the public.
KNCCI’s successful bid to host the WCF Africa Summit 2025 reflects its commitment to championing Kenya’s global business leadership. This achievement reinforces Nairobi’s stature as a gateway to Africa and underscores Kenya’s strategic role in shaping the future of continental and international trade.
The WCF Africa Summit 2025 offers a unique and timely platform for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to craft actionable strategies that will define Africa’s economic destiny.