Opening the proceedings, Raymond Sambou, Deputy CEO of GHIB, welcomed delegates, emphasising the historic significance of holding such a high-level gathering in The Gambia. “This is not just symbolic. It is a statement of Africa’s potential and the importance of African-led institutions in shaping the continent’s financial future,” he remarked.
Highlighting GHIB’s commitment to closing the trade finance gap and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), Sambou noted that trade finance affects all sectors - from exporters and manufacturers to farmers, stressing that no single institution or country could address the challenge alone.
The conference featured Dean Adansi, CEO of GHIB, who detailed the bank’s role as a bridge between global capital and African markets.
GHIB has been instrumental in supporting trade finance, foreign exchange, and risk management solutions for local banks, contributing to private sector growth and job creation, Adansi stated: “Our impact on SMEs and corporate entities lays the foundation for sustainable economic growth across the continent.”
The distinguished speakers included Governor Buah Saidy of the Central Bank of The Gambia, who underscored the importance of resilient domestic banks in supporting local economic recovery, and Lord Paul Boateng, former UK Lawmaker, who highlighted trade finance as a catalyst for Africa’s integration into global markets.
Key discussions also focused on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which unites 55 countries with a combined population of over 1.3 billion. Delegates explored strategies to boost intra-African trade, facilitate seamless movement of goods and services, and strengthen regional financial systems.
In his keynote address, Gambia’s Finance and Economic Affairs Minister Seedy Keita encouraged policymakers and financial institutions to harness trade finance as a tool for inclusive growth, emphasising that collaboration is critical for Africa’s sustainable development.
The GHIB Africa Trade Leaders forum aims at rekindling focus on empowering African institutions, fostering regional integration and creating the financial infrastructure necessary for long-term economic growth.
The five-day convergence continues with delegates discussing thematic issues and engaging in training sessions and policy discourse.
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