Africa’s economic transformation depends on stronger regional trade, increased investment, industrial development and the ability of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to compete in regional and international markets.
This was the central message at the Africa Commerce & Industry Summit (ACIS) 2026, held at Uhuru Gardens National Monument and Museum in Nairobi, where policymakers, investors, business leaders and entrepreneurs gathered to explore opportunities for accelerating the continent’s economic growth.
Convened by the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) under the theme “Driving Africa’s Next Era of Trade, Investment and Industry,” the summit provided a platform for dialogue on expanding market access, strengthening cross-border partnerships and creating an enabling environment for business and investment.
Opening the summit, Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry Lee Kinyanjui emphasised the importance of positioning African economies to attract a greater share of global investment capital while building stronger commercial relationships within the continent.
He highlighted regional integration as a key driver of economic growth, calling for the removal of trade barriers, development of regional value chains and measures to facilitate the movement of people and goods across African markets.
The Cabinet Secretary also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving the business environment, including through visa policy reforms for African nationals and initiatives aimed at facilitating trade, investment and private-sector development.
Principal Secretary for the State Department for MSME Development Susan Auma Mang’eni urged chambers of commerce and other enterprise-support institutions to work together in preparing small businesses to compete effectively beyond their domestic markets.
She noted that Africa’s entrepreneurial potential can generate greater economic benefits when enterprises have access to markets, business networks and opportunities to innovate, expand production and create sustainable employment.
For MSMEs, stronger competitiveness and access to regional and international markets are essential to growing businesses, improving livelihoods and contributing to inclusive economic development.
Mang’eni also congratulated KNCCI on its 60th anniversary, recognising the organisation’s contribution to enterprise development, trade facilitation and private-sector participation in Kenya’s economy.
Beyond policy discussions, the summit’s exhibition platform offered businesses an opportunity to showcase products, innovations and services to potential customers, investors and commercial partners.
During a tour of the exhibition stands, the Principal Secretary interacted with participating entrepreneurs and encouraged them to use such platforms to establish strategic partnerships, expand their networks and identify new market opportunities.
The discussions highlighted the importance of linking policy commitments with practical opportunities for businesses to grow and participate in regional value chains.
For Africa to realise its trade and industrial ambitions, collaboration among governments, chambers of commerce, investors and entrepreneurs remains critical. By strengthening these partnerships and addressing barriers that constrain enterprise growth, the continent can build more competitive industries, deepen economic integration and create opportunities for businesses of all sizes.
