Africa Business Summit Highlights AfCFTA Opportunities, Honours Outstanding Leaders

July 07, () — The 2026 100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit has reinforced the importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), with participants calling for stronger regional collaboration, increased cross-border investment and deeper intra-African trade to accelerate the continent’s economic transformation.

Held in Marrakech, Morocco, the summit brought together policymakers, business leaders, investors, diplomats and development partners to explore practical strategies for expanding trade, attracting investment and advancing sustainable development across Africa.

The event, themed “Uniting Africa’s Change Makers for Growth and Impact: A Gate to Sustainable Development”, was organised by the DAVDAN Peace and Advocacy Foundation in partnership with 100 Most Notable Peace Icons Africa.

Project Director for Africa, Ambassador Dr Kingsley Amafibe, said the summit continues to serve as a platform to promote Africa as a destination for investment, innovation, and strategic business partnerships, while supporting the implementation of the AfCFTA.

Participants noted that Africa’s abundant natural resources, youthful population, entrepreneurial talent and expanding consumer markets position the continent for stronger economic growth if governments and the private sector deepen regional integration.

The summit attracted delegates from across the continent, including diplomats, government officials, corporate executives and development experts who discussed opportunities to strengthen trade and investment under the AfCFTA framework.

A major highlight of the event was the recognition of individuals for their contributions to leadership, entrepreneurship, peacebuilding, and sustainable development.

Award recipients included Hanan Buhari, founder of the Hanan Buhari Foundation; Director of Finance and Accounts at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Asu Kunemofa; former House of Representatives member, Hon. Dozie Nwankwo; President of the Circle of Global Business Women, Lesotho, Dr Sindiswa Mzamo; Group Chairman of River Valley Group, Zimbabwe, Engr. Dr Mncedisi Dube; His Royal Highness Vho Midiyavhathu Tshivhase, Dynasty of South Africa; and Chief Executive Officer of Seven Oceans Oil and Gas Limited, Engr. Samuel Alabi.

Amafibe said the organisers would continue to create platforms that showcase African excellence, strengthen regional cooperation and connect the continent with global investment opportunities.