Basseterre: 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).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, this agreement was highlighted in a statement issued by Vincent Musumba, Communications and Events Manager at Afreximbank. Musumba emphasized that the agreement signifies a mutual commitment to enhancing Africa-Caribbean partnerships and bolstering trade and economic relations between the two regions. ACTIF2026 is scheduled to take place from July 29 to July 31, 2026, at the St. Kitts Marriott Beach Resort, Casino, and Spa in Basseterre.
The forum is set to feature panel discussions on regional trade, explore investment opportunities, and engage in initiatives aimed at enhancing Africa-Caribbean economic cooperation. It will also gather governments, investors, private sector leaders, development finance institutions, entrepreneurs, and diaspora stakeholders to chart pathways for sustainable growth amid global economic uncertainties.
George Elombi, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors at Afreximbank, remarked on the upcoming event by expressing the importance of reuniting with fellow Africans across the Atlantic. He highlighted the intention to reflect on shared development challenges and recommit to implementing strategic programmes that advance collective aspirations for self-determination and self-reliance. Elombi added that ACTIF2026 would focus on identifying priority projects and programmes and ensuring their effective execution as a pathway to shared economic growth.
The Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Terrance Drew, described the agreement as a pivotal step towards strengthening economic ties between Africa and the Caribbean. He expressed honor in hosting the event and conveyed the nation’s strong commitment to fostering economic connections. Drew highlighted that St Kitts and Nevis is not only a beautiful destination but also a gateway for investment and a hub for enterprise.
Drew further stated that ACTIF2026 would act as a catalyst for trade and investment, creating new opportunities for businesses and citizens. The forum is expected to establish lasting pathways that will benefit citizens, the region, and the entire African continent for generations to come. He expressed enthusiasm in welcoming delegates from global Africa to St Kitts and Nevis.
Musumba noted that ACTIF, convened by Afreximbank, has emerged as a premier platform for mobilizing capital, fostering partnerships, and accelerating economic integration between Africa and the Caribbean. At its 2025 edition, the forum facilitated 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 also mentioned that Afreximbank has expanded its footprint in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), approving over 700 million dollars in financing since establishing its Barbados office two years ago. This 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 ACTIF2026, please visit https://actif2026.afreximbankevents.com.