Nairobi:More than 5,000 delegates from 50 countries have gathered for the Africa Commerce and Industry Summit (ACIS) 2026, aimed at strengthening continental trade, attracting investment, and accelerating economic integration. The event, organized by the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), commenced at Uhuru Gardens National Monument and Museum under the theme ‘Driving Africa’s Next Era of Trade’.
According to Kenya News Agency, the summit gathers business leaders, policymakers, investors, and chambers of commerce to explore opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and position Africa as an integrated trade region and a destination for global investment. The event also marks KNCCI’s 60th anniversary, seeking to enhance connections between enterprises, capital, and markets across the continent.
KNCCI President Dr. Erick Rutto emphasized that Africa needs stronger practical links between businesses, investors, and markets to realize its economic potential. He noted that the summit aims to transform macroeconomic momentum into tangible business deals. KNCCI Vice President Mustafa Ramadhan highlighted the importance of private-sector institutions, particularly chambers of commerce, in driving continental trade.
Pan African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PACCI) President Kebour Ghenna stressed the need for practical collaboration among chambers across Africa, while SACCI President Advocate Mtho Xulu announced a new partnership between Kenya and South Africa to establish a private-sector-led joint business council.
Speaking on behalf of the Kenyan government, Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry Lee Kinyanjui urged African businesses to innovate, take risks, and create employment to enhance the continent’s competitiveness. He highlighted policy initiatives to create an attractive investment climate, including a doubling of foreign direct investment.
Principal Secretary for Trade Regina Ombam called for market diversification and quality standards alignment, while Principal Secretary for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Susan Mang’eni emphasized shifting from raw material extraction to enterprise development.
At the event, the Dean of African Ambassadors, Eritrea’s Ambassador to Kenya, urged African diplomatic missions to prioritize industrial development in trade negotiations. International partners, including the European Union and China, also outlined opportunities for expanding trade with Africa.
The summit runs until Friday, focusing on trade, investment, and partnerships to advance Africa’s economic integration and strengthen its global commerce participation.
