25/05/2026
Malawi Advances Trade and Investment Priorities at Biashara Afrika 2026
The Malawi Investment and Trade Centre (MITC), with support from UNDP, attended the third edition of the AfCFTA Business Forum—Biashara Afrika 2026—which took place in Lomé, Togo, from 18th to 20th May 2026.
Held under the theme “Driving Africa’s Economic Transformation through the AfCFTA,” the Forum builds on the strong momentum generated by previous editions, serving as a strategic platform to consolidate achievements, strengthen investor confidence, and reinforce the pivotal role of the private sector in advancing AfCFTA implementation.
The Forum was officially opened by H.E. Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of the Togolese Republic, who emphasized that the AfCFTA is entering a decisive new phase—where economic integration is no longer a distant aspiration, but a historic necessity. He underscored that Biashara—meaning “trade” in Swahili—is not merely a forum for dialogue, but a platform for solutions, partnerships, and practical implementation. In the face of geopolitical tensions, rising protectionism, and shifting global supply chains, he stressed that collective resilience is essential, as no single African economy can effectively advance its interests in isolation.
This year’s Forum focused on empowering high-potential African enterprises, advancing industrialization and regional value chains, accelerating trade, addressing infrastructure gaps, promoting digital commerce, and strengthening public-private dialogue to mobilize investment. Together, these efforts aim to position the AfCFTA as a driver of sustainable growth, economic sovereignty, and shared prosperity across the continent.
MITC’s participation underscores Malawi’s commitment to regional integration and strategic trade expansion, positioning the country to unlock new investment opportunities, strengthen value chains, and enhance its competitiveness within the African continental market.