Algiers – The 11th edition of the Africa Investment and Trade Conference is set to take place on May 10-11 in Algiers, with the participation of 43 countries, according to Mohamed Amin Boutalbi, President of the Arab-African Center for Investment and Development and Governor of the conference.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 14th annual Ramadan Iftar event “Development Forum,” Mr. Boutalbi stated that the conference, organized under the theme “Strengthening African Integration and Shared Prosperity,” will bring together several African ministers and over 1,000 economic figures. Additionally, more than 120 agreements are expected to be signed among participants.
The conference will also serve as a preparatory platform for the 4th Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF), scheduled to take place in Algiers from September 4 to 10, 2025. This trade fair will involve 144 countries, with projected trade transactions valued at $44 billion, added Mr. Boutalbi, who also serves as the Ambassador for the IATF.
In this context, Mr. Boutalbi emphasized the importance of Algeria leveraging such events, especially given the participation of numerous continental and international financial institutions, as well as African investment promotion agencies.
Ramadan Iftar Event: A Platform for Economic Dialogue
The annual Ramadan Iftar was jointly organized by the Arab-African Center for Investment and Development, the Algerian Electrical Industries Group, and the National Union of Public Contractors, under the patronage of the Minister of State for Energy, Mines, and Renewable Energies, Mohamed Arkab. The event was attended by Secretary of State for Mining, Karima Tafar, and Presidential Advisor for Trade and Supply Chain Management, Kamel Rezig.
Other notable attendees included Rabeh Fassi, Director of Economic Exchange Promotion at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Omar Rkach, General Director of the Algerian Investment Promotion Agency; ambassadors, business leaders, economic operators, and representatives from civil society and official bodies.
Key Speeches Highlight Opportunities for Africa
During the event, Mr. Fassi underscored the significance of the upcoming Intra-African Trade Fair in Algiers, highlighting its potential to boost regional trade. Meanwhile, Mourad Adjal, CEO of Sonelgaz and Honorary President of the Algerian Electrical Industries Group, reiterated Sonelgaz’s readiness to share its expertise with African nations. His remarks were delivered on his behalf by a representative of the group.
Sharaf Eddine Amara, President of the National Union of Public Contractors, stressed the importance of Africa’s abundant human and material resources, calling for their optimal utilization to achieve sustainable development.
A representative of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) highlighted the urgent need to enhance investments in the energy sector, noting that 600 million Africans still lack access to electricity. He praised Algeria’s pioneering experience in energy connectivity as a model for the continent.
“Development Pioneers” Awards Ceremony
The event concluded with the distribution of the “Development Pioneers” awards. Sonelgaz Group received the “Africa Development Award” in recognition of its significant contributions to supporting development across the continent.
This series of initiatives reflects Algeria’s growing role as a hub for economic and developmental cooperation in Africa, fostering partnerships and promoting shared prosperity across the continent.
