The 7th African-Emirati Business Summit unfolded at Dubai’s Carlton Tower Hotel, emphasizing collaboration between the United Arab Emirates and African nations. Hosted under the esteemed patronage of Sheikh Salem bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation for Ras Al Khaimah, the event highlighted mutual investment opportunities and economic partnerships. Distinguished guests included Mr. Ndo Kwaku Ngoitia Henri Joel, Coordinator of Côte d’Ivoire’s Agricultural Emergency Project, and Linda Benallal, conference organizer and CEO of LBM Project Management Services.
Organized in cooperation with Star Group International Côte d’Ivoire, the summit attracted participants from a diverse set of countries, including Morocco, Algeria, Côte d’Ivoire, China, India, France, and Pakistan, signifying the event’s global appeal.
Exploring Strategic Themes
The summit tackled a broad spectrum of topics aimed at strengthening UAE-Africa ties through innovation, sustainability, and economic integration. Key focus areas included:
- Strategic Investments: Discussions centered on infrastructure projects, renewable energy, and Africa’s abundant mineral resources to attract long-term investments.
- Digital Economy Development: Emphasis was placed on building robust digital infrastructures, fostering innovation, and expanding digital banking systems to boost African economies.
- Agribusiness and Food Security: Highlighting sustainable agricultural practices, the summit explored solutions to food insecurity through international collaboration.
- Renewable Energy Expansion: Panels explored Africa’s potential to lead in renewable energy development, addressing energy access disparities.
- Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Special attention was given to women’s empowerment as a transformative force in cross-continental trade and business development.
- Trade Integration and Connectivity: Strategies to integrate Africa into global supply chains and leverage special economic zones for economic growth were shared.
Forging Stronger UAE-Africa Relations
Linda Benallal, who leads LBM Project Management Services, shared her vision, stating: “Our mission is to create meaningful connections between African countries and the UAE by fostering partnerships across sectors like healthcare, education, technology, and agriculture.”
Benallal also underscored the company’s ongoing efforts with Star Group International in Côte d’Ivoire, actively engaging with governments, NGOs, and businesses to unlock investment opportunities. She added, “By bringing together key stakeholders on one platform, this summit is an incubator for innovative solutions and partnerships that will drive sustainable growth.”
Looking Ahead
The event not only reinforced the UAE’s role as a key player in Africa’s economic growth but also set the stage for future collaborations across industries. With its focus on shared prosperity, the African-Emirati Business Summit continues to serve as a vital forum for dialogue and action, shaping the future of UAE-Africa relations.
