By Boris Esono Nwenfor
The George Washington University (GWU) will host a high-powered gathering of African and global leaders for the second edition of The Future of Finance & Trade in Africa conference. The conference will highlight opportunities for advanced economies to strengthen trade and investment ties with Africa.
The conference set to take place on April 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C is jointly organized by The GW School of Business, The Growth Dialogue, the Institute for International Economic Policy (IIEP) at the GW Elliott School of International Affairs, the Center for Cyber Diplomacy and Leadership, the GW Institute for African Studies, GSI Fulbright, Global Impact Industries, NGSER, and Africa House.
This year’s event, “The Future of Finance & Trade in Africa 2.0,” arrives at a critical time marked by global economic shifts and rapid technological advancement. The forum aims to provide a platform for central bank governors, state governors, ministers, private sector executives, technology innovators, members of the African diaspora, and academic experts to exchange ideas and shape the continent’s economic trajectory.
Building on the success of its inaugural edition in April 2024, the 2025 conference will delve deep into topics central to Africa’s development, including the role of emerging technologies, regional trade integration, natural resource management, climate finance, and investment opportunities. A core focus will be on digital transformation and how it can be leveraged to fuel sustainable and inclusive economic growth across the continent.
“The event will also highlight opportunities for advanced economies to strengthen trade and investment ties with Africa, fostering collaboration among policymakers, practitioners, and thought leaders committed to advancing the continent’s progress,” Ambassador Omar Arouna, President for Global Public Affairs and Engagement, Gunster Strategies Worldwide said.
In addition to thought-provoking panel discussions and keynote addresses, the event is expected to highlight collaborative strategies that will encourage stronger trade and investment ties between Africa and the rest of the world.
The conference is scheduled to run from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET at the University Student Center, 800 21st Street NW, Washington, DC 20052. With the support of diverse partners and institutions, “The Future of Finance & Trade in Africa 2.0” promises to be a landmark event that reaffirms the continent’s central role in shaping the future of global economic expansion.
