According to the AU, the event, whose motto is “Strengthening public-private partnerships to accelerate trade and investment in Africa”, also seeks to deepen regional and continental trade and investments, towards the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

The forum was institutionalized as a key instrument of dialogue and partnership between actors of policymakers and the private sector. It is also a vehicle to empower the African private sector through promotions, information sharing, and business and marketing skills.

High-level government authorities are expected to engage in candid dialogue with the business community on challenges, solutions, and opportunities of regional integration initiatives.

The source said that while the African Continental Free Trade Area provides numerous opportunities for the continent, it is imperative that all relevant stakeholders implement deliberate strategies in order to unlock and utilize this potential effectively.

Financial, academic, and research institutions and representatives of creative start-ups directed or owned by women and youth also participate in the Forum.

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