Close
BACKGROUND
The Sub Saharan Africa Business and Investment Summit (SSABIS) is where Africa’s decision makers,
global investors, government officials, C-suite business executives, trade agencies, and other
stakeholders meet to exchange strategic partnerships to promote foreign direct investment (FDI) in
Africa. The Summit provides an opportunity for global investors to meet decision-makers in Africa and
representatives of their economic development sectors to exchange ideas and negotiate deals to
foster economic growth and development in the continent. SSABIS is an effective platform for global
investors and businesses who are thinking about establishing or expanding operations in Africa.
SSABIS is designed to offer opportunities to reliable, reputable, and credible global Investors to
access the huge vast business opportunities in Sub-Saharan Africa. It shall offer the platform for
one-on-one B2B interactive sessions, matchmaking, negotiations, and closure of deals by
Governments and the Organized Private Sector to support Infrastructural projects and Businesses,
diversification of economies, innovations, and actualizations of economic growth. We have harnessed
the business interests of several Investors who shall participate actively (some shall make
presentations about their readiness, willingness, abilities, and capacities) in the SSABIS Summit.
Why Participate:
| September 25 th, 2023 | |
| 7:00 A.M. 7:00 A.M. – 9:00 A.M. | Registration – Opens Breakfast & Networking Master of Ceremony – Tobi Ogunbayo |
| 9.00 A.M. – 9:10 A.M. | Opening Ceremony
|
| 9.10 A.M. – 9:50 A.M. | SESSION I – ENERGY -Diversified Power: Embracing the Dual Potential of Sub-Saharan Africa’s Energy Mix Informational Panel (40 minutes): Sub-Saharan Africa stands at a unique crossroads in the global energy narrative. Home to 7.5% of the world’s oil reserves and 7.1% of global natural gas reserves, the region has historically been a significant player in the oil and gas sector. As the global momentum tilts towards sustainable energy solutions, it becomes imperative for Sub-Saharan Africa to strike a balance between optimizing its oil and gas resources and propelling the transition to greener energy alternatives. This panel offers a comprehensive exploration of the diverse energy landscape of the region. Experts will discuss the investment dynamics, technological innovations, and policy strategies that can facilitate a harmonized growth trajectory, capitalizing on both traditional and renewable energy sources, for sustainable economic development. Speakers: 1. H.E. Magaret Mensah-Willimas, Ambassador of Namibia to the US 2. Michel Fayad, Bluegreen Holdings 3. Andreas Deutschmann, Snr. VP of Palladin Capital Moderator: ▪ Ambassador Robin Renee Sanders CEO of FEEDS, Director Smarter Grid International & Euafrique Energy |
| 9:50 A.M. – 10:10 A.M. | SESSION II – AGRICULTURE – Revolutionizing Agriculture for Sustainable Development in Sub-Saharan Africa Informational Panel (20 minutes): Agriculture is a critical sector for food security, poverty reduction, and economic development in Sub-Saharan Africa. As the backbone of the region’s economy, agriculture engages over 60% of its population and presents vast opportunities for innovation, growth, and international trade. This panel will illuminate the myriad investment opportunities within the agricultural sector, delve into innovative and sustainable practices reshaping the agrarian scene, and navigate the policy and regulatory pathways charting the future of farming in the region. Speakers: Anthony Kofituo Morrison, CEO, Chamber of Agriculture Business, Ghana ▪ H.E. Magaret Mensah-Willimas, Ambassador of Namibia to the US Moderators: ▪ Gbenga Omotayo, Executive Director of the US Africa Trade and Business Network Backup Moderator: ▪ Dr. Alexander Ezenagu, Chief Consultant of Sapient Consulting Group Limited. |
| 10:10 A.M. – 10:50 A.M. | SESSION III – INFRASTRUCTURE & TRANSPORTATION – Building Resilient Infrastructure and Enhancing Transportation for Economic Development in Sub-Saharan Africa Informational Panel (40 minutes): The pivotal role of infrastructure and transportation in unlocking Sub-Saharan Africa’s vast economic potential is undeniable. With a flourishing urban population and the rise of regional economic blocs, the demand for interconnected, efficient, and sustainable transport networks is at an all-time high. The World Bank highlights an investment opportunity of approximately $35 billion annually in the region’s infrastructure. This panel seeks to spotlight the myriad of investment avenues, the transformative power of infrastructural advancements on regional integration, and how a proactive policy and regulatory environment can pave the way for unparalleled economic growth. Speakers: 1. Minister for Industrialization and Trade, Namibia: Hon. Lucia Iipumbu 2.H.E. Noel Nelson Nessone, Ambassador of Gabon to the US 3. Aissata M.B. Camara, Deputy Commissioner for Policy and Strategic Initiatives and Chief of Staff in the NYC Mayor 4. John Poindexter, Business Consultant, Aviation Advisory Service 5. Andrew Platt – Principal Blue Tactical Moderator: ▪ Dr. Alexander Ezenagu, Chief Consultant of Sapient Consulting Group Limited. |
| 10:50 A.M. – 11:00 P.M. | Sponsor Feature
|
| 11:00 P.M. – 12:20 P.M. | SESSION IV – INVESTORS FORUM A&B – Unearthing Investment Goldmines: Navigating the Landscape of Sub-Saharan Africa’s Opportunities Informational Panel (two sessions of 40 minutes each): Sub-Saharan Africa stands as a beacon of growth potential in the global investment landscape. With seven of the world’s ten fastest-growing economies located in the region, as reported by the World Bank, it beckons global investors with unparalleled opportunities. This session is designed to convene leading investors to share insights on emerging trends, high-impact sectors, and innovative investment strategies being deployed. The discussion will also cover best practices for navigating regulatory environments and forming strategic local partnerships to ensure sustainable and impactful investments in the region. |
| 11:00 P.M. – 11:40 P.M | SESSION IV – Investors Forum A Speakers (40 minutes): 1. Raymond Gilpin PhD. Chief Strategy, Analysis and Research Team – UNDP Regional Bureau for Africa 2. Don Christensen, Executive Chairman InvestBank Corp 3. Jonathan Eigege, Associate Partner, Albright Stonebridge Group (ASG) 4. Million Zeleke, Principal, Sacral Capital LLC 5. Obi Onyeka Emekekwue, President, DelReeve Consult Ltd. Moderator: ▪ Olubukola Shabi, Risk Management Consultant |
| 11:40 P.M. – 12:20 P.M | SESSION IV – Investors Forum B Speakers (40 minutes): 1. Sean Westley, Founder, Kelly Park Capital 2. Hon Dr Peter Mutuku Mathuki – EAC Secretary General 3. Andreas Deutschmann, Snr. VP of Palladin Capital 4. Emidio Zorzella, Founder Antares Vision Group Moderator: ▪ Dr. Alexander Ezenagu, Chief Consultant of Sapient Consulting Group Limited. |
| 12:20 P.M. – 12.40 P.M. | LUNCH / NETWORKING – LUNCH CONTINUES AS FIRESIDE CHATS START AT 12:40 P.M. |
| 12.40 P.M. – 1.40 P.M. | SESSION V – EXPERT FIRESIDE CHATS (15 Minutes Per Session)) 1. Global Economic Shifts and Africa’s Position-A Strategic Perspective: Speaker: Andrew Dabalen, Chief Economist, Africa Region, World Bank Moderator: Obi Onyeka Emekekwue, President, DelReeve Consult Ltd. – Session is 15 Minutes ▪ Fireside Chat Description: As the global economy undergoes significant transitions driven by technological advancements, geopolitical changes, and environmental imperatives, the dynamics of international trade, investment, and finance are being reshaped. Africa, with its immense potential and unique challenges, finds itself at a crucial juncture in this evolving narrative. This engaging conversation will offer insights into how the continent is positioning itself amidst these macroeconomic fluctuations. We will unpack the roles of trade partnerships, digital transformations, and policy reforms, all while contemplating Africa’s emerging identity in the global economic order. 2. Redefining Hospitality: Africa’s Emergence as a Global Destination Speaker: Dr. Martha Namundjebo-Tilahun, Co-Owner & Group Chairman, United Africa Group Moderator: Ramatu Inyang, CEO of House of Dimple Session is 15 minutes ▪ Fireside Chat Description: The allure of Africa has traditionally been its unparalleled natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. But today, the continent is also emerging as a hub for world-class hospitality. This session will dive deep into discussions about the blending of traditional African warmth with modern luxury, and how the hospitality industry can lead the way in promoting Africa as the next big travel and business destination. This conversation promises to shed light on the symbiotic relationship between world-class hospitality services and the broader tourism boom on the continent. 3. Economic Transformation through International Collaboration Speaker: Mykola Volkivskyi, President of First International Ukrainian Foundation Of Development Moderator: Olubukola Shabi, Risk Management Consultant Session is 15 minutes ▪ Fireside Chat Description: This session is a golden opportunity to gain first-hand insights into how strategic international alliances can redefine a nation’s economic trajectory, laying the foundation for shared prosperity and long-term growth. Dive deep into Ukraine’s unique journey of economic metamorphosis, fueled by partnerships, shared knowledge, and mutual growth agendas with nations and international entities. Understand the nuanced strategies, policy frameworks, and ground-breaking initiatives undertaken by the Foundation to foster an environment ripe for sustainable development. Fireside Chat 4. Fighting against counterfeiting through innovation that builds a Sustainable Africa (15 minutes): Speaker: Emidio Zorzella, Founder Antares Vision Group Moderator: Ambassador Robin Renee Sanders, CEO FEEEDS Session is 15 minutes ▪ Fireside Chat Description: This dialogue centers on the Drug and packaging counterfeit issues that plague Sub-Saharan Africa. Emidio will discuss how Antares Vision Group is tackling counterfeiting and discuss some real world cost effective ways they are achieving it all over the world. |
| 1.40 P.M. – 1.45 P.M. | Oscar “Ofoesho” Roberts President Xstream Global Solutions.& The Made Network |
| 1.45 P.M. – 1.50 P. M. | SME Pitch – Qriss Henry Ogwu |
| SME Pitch – Qriss Henry Ogwu | SESSION VI – DIGITAL AND TECHNOLOGY- Tech for Progress: Harnessing Digital Innovations to Empower Africa’s Unique Potential. Informational Panel (20 minutes): Sub-Saharan Africa is experiencing a digital renaissance. The region is home to burgeoning tech hubs and a startup ecosystem. This presents a wealth of investment opportunities in digital infrastructure, fintech, e-commerce, and other technology-driven sectors, which can be leveraged as drivers for sustainable development in the region. This session aims to outline strategies for capitalizing on the digital transformation to spur economic growth, enhance service delivery, and foster innovation in Sub-Saharan Africa. The conversation will also touch on the necessity for a supportive policy and regulatory environment to enable the growth of the digital ecosystem, safeguard consumer rights, and ensure data protection and privacy. Speakers: 1. Hon. Awut Deng Achul, Minister of Higher Education, Science & Technology, South Sudan 2. William Wang, Founder RNS.ID Moderator: Michael Anderson, CEO MPAC Solutions and MPAC Crypto |
| 2:10 P.M. – 2:50 P.M. | SESSION VII – BANKERS FORUM – Catalyzing Sub-Saharan Africa’s Growth through Strategic Finance Informational Panel (40 minutes): As the financial lifeblood of economies, banks play a pivotal role in shaping the economic landscapes of nations. The forum will host leading bankers who will discuss emerging financial products, instruments, and strategies tailored for the unique economic challenges and opportunities in the region. This session aims to spotlight how banks and financial institutions are facilitating businesses, projects, and initiatives that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring not just economic growth, but also sustainable and inclusive development. The dialogue will further explore the changing dynamics of project financing, credit facilities, and investment partnerships in Sub-Saharan Africa. Speakers: 1. Tobias Adrian, Director, Monetary & Capital Markets Dept, IMF 2. Danica Starks, Senior Advisor to the US, Executive Director, World Bank 3. Yofi Grant, Ghanaian Investment Banker 4. Don Christensen, Executive Chairman InvestBank Corp Moderator: ▪ Gbenga Omotayo, Executive Director of the US Africa Trade and Business Network |
| 2:50 P.M. – 2:55 P.M. | Afternoon Stretch Break |
| 2:55 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. | SME Pitch – Gbenga Omotayo, Executive Director US Africa Trade and Business Network |
| 3.00 P.M. – 3.20 P.M. | SESSION IX – MINING & MINERALS- Unlocking the Potential of the Mining Sector in Sub-Saharan Africa Informational Panel (20 minutes): Sub-Saharan Africa is a treasure trove of mineral wealth, housing approximately 30% of the world’s mineral reserves, including vast deposits of gold, diamonds, and rare earth minerals. The industry has shown substantial growth with mining contributing around $300 billion to the GDP of African economies, according to the African Mining Vision report. This presents an attractive landscape for investment, particularly in the areas of sustainable and responsible mining practices. The panel will focus on the plethora of investment opportunities in the region, such as in innovation, technology, and infrastructure geared toward sustainable mining. Speakers: 1. Hon. Ayong Awer Lual, Deputy Ambassador of Uganda to the US 2. Obi Onyeka Emekekwue, President, DelReeve Consult Ltd. Moderator: ▪ Teri Coaxum, CEO/Owner of Coaxum Connects LLC |
| 3.20 P.M. – 3.30 P. M. | Plenary Closing Remarks/Announcements ▪ Ms. Kobi Emmanuela King |
| 3.30 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. | SPECIAL AWARD CEREMONY AND SPECIAL GUEST INTRODUCTIONS |
| 3.30 P.M. – 3:40 P.M.: | Opening Remarks – Ambassador Renee Sanders |
| 3:40 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. | Special Guest Introductions (Andreas Deutschmann invitees) |
| 4.00 PM – 4:30 PM: | Awards Presentation SSABIS Woman of the Year Award Presentation & Brief Acceptance Speech Awardee : Dr Martha Namundjebo-Tilahun SSABIS Entrepreneur of the Year Award Presentation & Brief Acceptance Speech Awardee: Sharon Miotsha SSABIS African President of the Year Award Presentation & Brief Acceptance Speech Awardee: To be Announced Special Award Presentation The Senegal Leadership Award Presentation & Brief Acceptance Speech Awarding Team – To be announced |
| 4.20 PM – 4:30 PM: | Closing Remarks Joyce Halliday, SSABIS Planning Committee |
