Africa is gearing up for one of its largest gatherings of business, policy, and investment leaders as the Africa Talks Business and Investment Forum (ATBIF) comes to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from November 6 to 8, 2024. Part of the Africa Celebrates 2024 initiative, ATBIF will unfold at the headquarters of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) and the African Union, aiming to advance the dream of a more economically integrated Africa. Themed Re-imagining the African Dream of Integration with AfCFTA as an Enabler, this year’s forum highlights the transformative power of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in bringing African nations closer through trade and economic collaboration.

Public and private sector leaders from across the continent and beyond will join forces at ATBIF, exchanging ideas and strategies to build a resilient African economy. The forum will focus on driving investments in key sectors that are vital to Africa’s future: agriculture, transportation infrastructure, renewable energy, and technological innovation.

Projects such as new roads, railways, airports, and sustainable energy sources will be at the forefront, all essential for fostering economic independence and global competitiveness. Through these initiatives, ATBIF seeks to create pathways for African economies to become self-sustaining, contributing to shared prosperity across borders.

Adding to the forum’s importance, trade and industry ministers from five African countries will be in attendance, underscoring ATBIF’s role in shaping sustainable growth and regional cooperation policies. Their participation reinforces the forum’s mission to increase intra-African trade and forge stronger economic bonds across the continent, furthering the collective vision of a united and prosperous Africa.

Organized by Legendary Gold Limited, with Mayalz Events as the Ethiopian partner, Africa Celebrates 2024 brings together an impressive lineup of supporters. Alongside the hosting roles of UNECA and the African Union, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the embassies of Nigeria, Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire, Morocco, and the United States to the African Union have lent their backing.

Key partners also include the Pan African Chamber of Commerce and Industry, with Ethiopian Airlines offering discounted fares as the official carrier.

With AfCFTA as a cornerstone, ATBIF 2024 is set to play a critical role in Africa’s journey toward unity and economic resilience. By advancing infrastructure and fostering cross-border partnerships, the forum hopes to bring Africa’s vision of integrated growth and shared prosperity closer to reality, setting the stage for a stronger and more influential continent.