The African Trade Center Side Event Summit was held in September 2019 on the sidelines of the United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPFSD) in New York. This important gathering brought together global leaders, development experts, policymakers, and private sector representatives to discuss Africa’s role in driving sustainable development and inclusive economic growth.
As a recognized platform for advancing trade and investment opportunities across Africa, the African Trade Center used the summit to highlight the continent’s potential in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Discussions focused on how increased trade, stronger regional integration, and innovative partnerships can serve as powerful tools for tackling poverty, promoting industrialization, and improving livelihoods across African nations.
The side event also provided a space for African voices to be heard on the global stage. Delegates emphasized the importance of strengthening Africa’s infrastructure, enhancing access to finance for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and encouraging technology transfer to accelerate development. The African Trade Center further showcased its ongoing initiatives designed to connect African businesses with international partners, fostering an environment where sustainable growth can thrive.
By hosting the summit alongside the UN HLPFSD, the African Trade Center reaffirmed its commitment to positioning Africa not just as a participant but as a key driver in the global development agenda. The event served as a reminder that trade and sustainable development are deeply interconnected, and that Africa’s future prosperity will depend on how effectively these opportunities are harnessed.
