Algiers, Algeria – A monumental gathering of African business minds is slated for Algiers this September, as over 1,000 business leaders from 43 nations across the continent are expected to attend a pivotal trade summit. This event will also see the participation of numerous African ministers, and the signing of more than 120 agreements between participating entities.
The upcoming 11th edition of the African Investment and Trade Forum (AFIC11), scheduled for May 10th and 11th in Algiers, will serve as a crucial precursor to the 4th Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF), which will take place from September 4th to 10th in the same city.
Mohamed Amine Boutalbi, President of the Arab-African Center for Investment and Development (CAAID) and Commissioner of AFIC11, revealed these details in a statement to the APS news agency during the 14th annual Ramadan Iftar “Development Forum.” He stated that AFIC11, organized by CAAID under the theme “African Integration and Prosperity,” will draw significant participation.
The IATF, anticipated to attract representatives from 144 countries, is projected to facilitate trade transactions reaching a staggering $44 billion USD. Mr. Boutalbi, who also serves as the ambassador for the fair, emphasized the strategic importance for Algeria to capitalize on these events, particularly given the expected presence of numerous continental and international financial institutions and African investment promotion agencies.
The Ramadan Iftar, organized by CAAID, the Algerian Cluster of Electrical Industries, and the National Union of Public Entrepreneurs (UNEP), was held under the patronage of Minister of State, Minister of Energy, Mines and Renewable Energies, Mohamed Arkab. The event was graced by the presence of Secretary of State to the Minister of Energy, in charge of Mines, Karima Tafer, and the Advisor to the President of the Republic in charge of trade, supply, control and import-export, Kamel Rezig.
Also in attendance were Rabah Fassih, Director of Promotion and Support for Economic Exchanges (DPSEE) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Community Abroad and African Affairs; Omar Rekkache, Director General of the Algerian Investment Promotion Agency (AAPI); and a host of ambassadors, business leaders, economic operators, civil society representatives, and official bodies.
Mr. Fassih highlighted the significance of the “IATF-2025,” emphasizing its potential impact on regional trade. Mourad Adjal, CEO of Sonelgaz Group and honorary president of the Algerian Electrical Industries Group, in a speech delivered on his behalf, reiterated Sonelgaz’s commitment to sharing its expertise with African nations.
Charaf Eddine Amara, President of UNEP, stressed the importance of harnessing the continent’s human and material resources for development. A representative from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) underscored the need for increased investment in the energy sector, noting that 600 million Africans lack access to electricity, while praising Algeria’s pioneering role in energy connectivity.
The event concluded with the “Development Leaders” awards, with Sonelgaz Group receiving the “Development in Africa Award” for its contribution to continental development.
