The first Egyptian-African Economic Conference, titled “Africa We Want: Integration and Partnership for the Future,” will be held on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at the Al-Ahram Foundation headquarters in Cairo, under the patronage of Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly and Eng. Abdel Sadeq Al-Shorbagy, head of the National Press Authority. Organized by Al-Ahram Ebedo, the event coincides with the 150th anniversary of the Al-Ahram institution’s founding and aims to strengthen economic cooperation between Egypt and African nations. n nProminent participants include Dr. Rania El-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, representing the Prime Minister, Dr. Ahmed Kojok, Minister of Finance, and former Prime Minister Eng. Ibrahim Mahlab. Also attending are Dr. Mahmoud Mohie El-Din, UN Special Envoy for Financing the 2030 Agenda, Ahmed Amawy, Head of Customs, and Lt. Gen. Hossam El-Din Mustafa, Deputy Minister of Transport. The conference will also host leaders from key economic agencies such as the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI), the African Development Bank (AfDB), and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), alongside representatives from international financial institutions, industrial and commercial unions, the African Journalists Union, and African ambassadors based in Cairo. n nAdditional attendees include Dr. Abdul Aziz Al-Sharif, head of the Commercial Representation Agency, Dr. Sherif El-Gabaly, Chairman of the African Affairs Committee in Egypt’s House of Representatives, Dr. Magdy George, former head of the Export Council for Medical Industries, Mary Louise Bashara, member of the Ready-Made Garments Export Council, Basil Rahmy, CEO of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency, and Ahmed El-Wakeel, President of the Federation of Egyptian Chambers of Commerce. n nThe agenda features several core discussions focusing on infrastructure and investment as foundational elements for advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Sessions will also explore value chains and industrialization to foster joint industries and increase added value. Financial integration will be addressed through proposals for shared financial systems to facilitate cross-border trade, while another session will highlight economic diplomacy as a tool to deepen political and economic ties between Egypt and African countries. n nThe event will conclude with a keynote address by the Minister of Finance, followed by a special recognition segment and a video presentation showcasing major achievements in Egyptian-African economic collaboration. n nThis conference unfolds amid a global context marked by shifting economic dynamics, where African unity and solidarity are seen as essential for sustainable growth. It reflects Egypt’s strategic vision toward the continent, particularly as Africa faces mounting developmental challenges amid fluctuating international conditions, rising resource competition, and increased regional tensions. n nAligned with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s call for a “collective mobilization” to achieve continental renaissance, the conference underscores Egypt’s commitment to fostering African integration and shared prosperity.
— news from اليوم السابع
