President William Ruto officially opened the World Chambers Federation (WCF) Africa Summit 2025 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on April 9, 2025, setting the stage for a transformative three-day event aimed at shaping Africa’s economic future.
Held under the theme “Africa’s Global Future: Integrated, Innovative and Sustainable,” the summit has drawn over 4,500 delegates from more than 70 countries. Among them are heads of state, policymakers, global investors and business leaders keen on unlocking Africa’s potential through innovation, trade and investment.
Speaking during the opening, President Ruto emphasized Kenya’s strategic position as a hub for investment in Africa. “This summit brings together the world’s business communities and offers them a chance to explore the opportunities available in Kenya and by extension, Africa. We are streamlining business processes to foster a more efficient and investor-friendly environment where enterprises can thrive,” he said.
The summit, organized by the World Chambers Federation in collaboration with the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), aims to deepen continental partnerships and strengthen implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
KNCCI President Dr. Erick Rutto highlighted the importance of collaboration in advancing Africa’s development agenda. “This summit is not just a meeting—it is a launchpad for action. We are engaging innovators, SMEs, policymakers and investors to drive sustainable growth across the continent,” Dr. Rutto noted. He further continued, ”The African Chambers of Commerce want to boost inter-African trade from 16% to 68% that we see in Europe, North America and Asia, we will use the World Chambers Federation Africa Summit to dismantle non-tariff barriers that cost 14 billion dollar annually here in Africa. We also aspire to accelerate digital transformation.”
Key activities include B2B matchmaking, investment forums, policy dialogues and AfCFTA masterclasses. Technology, manufacturing and agriculture are among the sectors receiving special attention for their growth potential and impact on youth employment.
The WCF Africa Summit has already attracted 545 confirmed delegates from over 60 countries on day one alone, a clear indication of growing global interest in Africa’s economic rise.
As the summit continues through April 11, eyes remain fixed on Nairobi as the continent defines its future—integrated, innovative and unstoppable.
