By Okeoghene Akubuike
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has signed a hosting agreement with the Government of St Kitts and Nevis for the fifth edition of the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF2026).
This is contained in a statement issued by Vincent Musumba, Communications and Events Manager, Afreximbank on Tuesday.
Musumba said the agreement underscored a shared commitment to deepen Africa–Caribbean partnerships and strengthen trade and economic relations between the two regions.
He said ACTIF2026 was scheduled to hold from July 29 to July 31, 2026, at the St. Kitts Marriott Beach Resort, Casino & Spa in Basseterre.
Musumba said the forum was expected to feature panel discussions on regional trade, explore investment opportunities, and initiatives aimed at enhancing Africa–Caribbean economic cooperation.
He said it would also bring together governments, investors, private sector leaders, development finance institutions, entrepreneurs, and diaspora stakeholders to chart pathways for sustainable growth amid global economic uncertainties.
Meanwhile, George Elombi, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Afreximbank was quoted as saying “at the fifth edition of ACTIF, we will once again reunite with our fellow Africans across the Atlantic.
“We will reflect on our shared development challenges and recommit to implementing strategic programmes that advance our collective aspiration for self-determination and self-reliance.”
He added that ACTIF2026 would focus on identifying priority projects and programmes and ensuring their effective execution as a pathway to shared economic growth.
Also, the Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Terrance Drew, described the agreement as a significant step toward strengthening economic ties between Africa and the Caribbean.
“We are honoured to host the fifth edition of the ACTIF. This agreement signals our strong commitment to strengthening economic ties between Africa and the Caribbean.
“We are not just a beautiful destination; we are a gateway for investment, a hub for enterprise, and a proud partner in the Renaissance of Africans.
Drew said ACTIF2026 would serve as a catalyst for trade and investment, creating new opportunities for businesses and citizens.
“This forum will create lasting pathways that will benefit our citizens, our region, and the entire African continent for generations to come. We look forward to welcoming delegates from global Africa to St Kitts and Nevis.”
Musumba said ACTIF, convened by Afreximbank, had emerged as a premier platform for mobilising capital, fostering partnerships, and accelerating economic integration between Africa and the Caribbean.
At its 2025 edition, he said the forum recorded five deals across three Caribbean countries valued at 291.25 million dollars, covering trade and investment finance, corporate finance, project preparation, and export development.
Musumba said Afreximbank has also expanded its footprint in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), approving over 700 million dollars in financing since opening its Barbados office two years ago.
“The funding has supported projects in climate adaptation, tourism, infrastructure, small and medium enterprises, and oil and gas initiatives across the region.
“ For more information on the ACTIF2026 please visit, https://actif2026.afreximbankevents.com.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Vivian Ihechu
