Afreximbank, St Kitts and Nevis Sign Hosting Deal for ACTIF2026 to Boost Africa-Caribbean Trade Ties

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and the Government of St Kitts and Nevis have officially signed a hosting agreement for the fifth edition of the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF2026), reinforcing growing economic ties between Africa and the Caribbean.

The landmark forum is scheduled to take place from 29 to 31 July 2026 at the St. Kitts Marriott Beach Resort, Casino & Spa in Basseterre. The agreement signals a shared commitment to strengthening trade, investment, and long-term collaboration between both regions.

Speaking on the development, Afreximbank President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Dr. George Elombi, said the upcoming forum will serve as a platform for deepening cooperation and advancing shared development goals. He emphasized that ACTIF2026 will focus on identifying priority projects that can drive self-reliance and sustainable economic growth across Africa and the Caribbean.

On his part, Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Dr. Terrance M. Drew, expressed pride in hosting the event, describing it as a major opportunity to position the country as a hub for investment and enterprise. He noted that ACTIF2026 would open new doors for businesses and strengthen economic opportunities for citizens across the region.

ACTIF2026 is expected to bring together government leaders, investors, private sector stakeholders, development finance institutions, entrepreneurs, and members of the diaspora. The forum will feature high-level panel discussions, networking sessions, and investment showcases focused on strengthening Africa–Caribbean cooperation.

Over the years, ACTIF has become a key platform for mobilizing capital and building partnerships across the Atlantic. The 2025 edition alone facilitated five Caribbean deals worth $291.25 million across trade finance, corporate finance, and export development.

Since establishing its Barbados office two years ago, Afreximbank has also approved more than $700 million in financing across the CARICOM region, supporting projects ranging from climate adaptation in Saint Lucia to tourism, SME development, and energy investments across several Caribbean states.

With ACTIF2026, both regions are expected to deepen economic integration and unlock new opportunities for sustainable growth under the vision of “Global Africa.”

source: The Guardian