The Afro-Caribbean Investment Summit has taken a significant step in bolstering connections between Africa and the Caribbean, emphasising sustainability, economic diversification, and collaboration for shared prosperity.
Held in Abuja, Nigeria, and organised by Aquarian CONSULT in partnership with the government of Saint Kitts and Nevis, the event was themed ‘Bridging Continents: Africa and the Caribbean, a Partnership for Prosperity.’
Political, business, and academic leaders from both regions gathered to explore deeper economic partnerships and long-term development. Prime Minister Dr. Terrence Michael Drew of St. Kitts and Nevis, in his keynote address, underscored Africa’s intrinsic link to the Caribbean, referring to it as the region’s “mother.” He advocated for a shift towards sustained collaboration across economic, cultural, political, and spiritual spheres.
Drew highlighted the urgent need to tackle climate change, noting its severe impact on both regions. He presented Nevis’s geothermal energy project as a sustainable model aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels. He called for Africa’s agricultural expertise to enhance food production through joint research and technology partnerships.
Former President of Mauritius, Dr. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, addressed Africa’s structural challenges, emphasising the importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in creating a unified market. She stressed that investment in science and technology is essential for Africa’s economic transformation and urged educational reform to foster critical thinking and innovation.
Ms. Aisha Maina, General Managing Director of Aquarian Consult, highlighted the concept of a “Global Africa” and urged the Global South to invest in itself. She called for greater collaboration in trade and innovation between Africa and the Caribbean.
Prof. Benedict Okechukwu Oramah, President of Afrexim Bank, reinforced the need for institutionalised cooperation, noting the shared history of colonisation while emphasising the potential for collaboration. He asserted that unity could create a powerful political and economic bloc capable of influencing global affairs.
The summit marked a crucial step towards establishing a structured framework for Afro-Caribbean collaboration, aimed at enhancing trade, innovation, and sustainable development.
