The Bahamas to host Afreximbank Annual Meetings, ACTIF

The Bahamas is set to host the 31st Afreximbank Annual Meetings and the third edition of the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum in Nassau from the 12th to the 14th of June 2024. This significant event follows the agreement signed between the Bahamas and the African Export-Import Bank. Benedict Oramah, the President of Afreximbank, highlighted the substantial progress made in the relations between Africa and the Caribbean over the past two years during a conversation with CNBC Africa. Oramah emphasized Afreximbank's crucial role in supporting business ventures and expanding into new markets by providing financial support, managing risks, and offering necessary funding. The establishment of Afreximbank's Caribbean initiative two years ago, following the African Union's decision in 2008 to designate the diaspora as its sixth region, has laid a solid foundation for economic partnerships between Africa and the Caribbean. With 11 out of 15 CARICOM countries already signed up for the partnership agreement, Afreximbank's initiatives across the region have gained momentum. The bank has set up a regional office in Barbados, initiated a pipeline of over $2.4 billion, and made its first disbursement of climate-linked loans to Saint Lucia in January. Additionally, transactions in several other countries are in the pipeline. Afreximbank is actively supporting clients with investment opportunities totaling $1.5 billion in the Caribbean region. The bank has also secured investments from various entities, including the Caribbean Development Fund, in addition to financial commitments from government agencies. During the upcoming annual meetings, stakeholders from Africa, the CARICOM states, and other global players will converge to celebrate achievements, reaffirm commitments, and chart the future course of Africa-Caribbean relations. Oramah highlighted a significant upcoming project in the Bahamas, the Bahama Permanent Exhibition Space, which will serve as a pivotal hub for trade and investment connections between Africa, the Caribbean, and the broader diaspora. This innovative marketplace aims to facilitate seamless business interactions and collaborations among countries and businesses across continents. The strategic location of The Bahamas, with its world-class hotels and meeting facilities, makes it an ideal host for an event that typically attracts thousands of attendees. Oramah encouraged early registrations for the event to ensure accommodation and logistical arrangements are efficiently managed. Direct charter flights from major African cities to Nassau have been arranged to facilitate travel for participants. In conclusion, the upcoming Afreximbank Annual Meetings and the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum in The Bahamas mark a significant milestone in strengthening economic ties between Africa and the Caribbean. The event promises to showcase achievements, foster partnerships, and propel both regions towards shared prosperity and sustainable growth. Attendees are urged to register early to secure their spot at this impactful gathering.