The 2025 U.S.–Africa Business Summit has officially opened in Luanda, Angola, drawing more than 1,500 participants including heads of state, senior government officials, corporate executives, investors, and civil society leaders. The four-day summit, which runs from June 22 to 25, is aimed at boosting trade, deepening investment, and expanding economic partnerships between the United States and Africa.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, U.S. Ambassador Troy Fitrell, Acting Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting African-led growth through stronger commercial ties. “We are here to promote a business-focused diplomacy that unlocks economic opportunity for both sides,” Fitrell said.
Angolan President João Lourenço welcomed participants and called for a new era of cooperation based on mutual benefit and trust. “Africa is open for business and eager to build long-term partnerships that create jobs, infrastructure, and value on the continent,” he stated.
Also delivering keynote remarks, African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf emphasized that the summit provides a platform to reposition Africa not just as a destination for investment, but as a serious global player. “This is a continent rich in opportunity, talent, and ambition,” he noted.
AfCFTA Secretary General Wamkele Mene outlined how the African Continental Free Trade Area is creating a unified economic space for investors and facilitating intra-African trade. He called on U.S. firms to engage more deeply with the continent’s evolving economic frameworks.
