Africa Trade Development Forum
Unlocking Africa’s Trade Through Digital Innovation.

Africa Trade Development Forum

Our Programme

Unlocking Africa’s Trade Potential Through Digital Innovation.

Information For Delegates

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8.00 a.m. - 10.00 p.m.

Registration and badge collection at Marriott Hotel and Four Points by Sheraton 

Facilitators

Planitswiss and TradeMark Africa

8.00 a.m. - 9.25 a.m.

Facilitator: TradeMark Africa

9.25 a.m. - 10.30 a.m.

Facilitator: TradeMark Africa

10.35 a.m. - 11.00 a.m.

Facilitator: JERRY ADJORLOLO, Master of Ceremony

11.10 a.m. - 11.30 a.m.

Speech 1: Tomorrows trade in an evolving tech space

By: Prudence Sebahizi, Minister of Trade and Industry, Rwanda

Speech 2: Rapid advancements and the ambitious future of digital trade – A TMA experience

By: David Beer, CEO, TradeMark Africa

11.35 a.m. - 12.30 p.m.

ROOM 1

This discussion is set against the backdrop of the recently adopted AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol and addresses some of the most critical questions confronting intraAfrican trade and by large global trade today.

Activity

A peep into the future: Introducing Trade Logistics Information Pipeline

Moderator: Jerry Adjorlolo

  1. H.E Wamkele Mene, Secretary General, AfCFTA.
  2. Mr. Haytham El Maayergi, Executive Vice President, Global Trade Bank (Afreximbank)
  3. Ms Annette Mutaawe Ssemuwemba, Deputy Secretary General, East Africa Community Secretariat.

12.35 p.m. - 12.55 p.m.

GUEST OF HONOR

Rt. Hon. Edouard Ngirente, Prime Minister of Rwanda 

 

Digital Dividends; Digital transformation agenda with the future in mind

By: H.E Hailemariam Desalegn Boshe, TMA Board Chair and Former Prime Minister of Ethiopia

1.00 p.m. - 1.10 p.m.

Facilitator: JERRY ADJORLOLO, Master of Ceremony

1.10 p.m. - 2.25 p.m.

  • Lunch for All Delegates – Main Lunch Hall
  •  In Lunch Conversation with Ministers of Trade and Industry and Secretary Generals – Muhazi
    (By invitation) 

2.30 p.m. - 3.25 p.m.

Moderator: Allen S. Asiimwe, Deputy CEO TMA

The session is a candid discussion on trade in Africa, and then zooming in to digitalisation as an enabler of trade. The discussion will encourage cross-continental peer learning to enhance digital adoption strategies around the following themes:

  • Regulatory environment
  • Driving inclusion and sustainability
  • The future for policy
  • Increasing trust
  • Evolution of e-commerce
  • New funding models for trade development in Africa.

Panel:

  1. Antoine Sebera, Chief Innovation Officer, Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA).
  2. Moses Kemibaro. Founder and CEO Dot Savvy and thought leader in Tech in Africa.
  3. Bernice Omiunu. Founder, Women in Blockchain Africa.
  4. Gabriel Negatu. Atlantic Council and TMA Board Director

3.30 p.m. - 4.15 p.m.

ROOM 1

Facilitator

Antoinette Tesha. Investment Director, Trade Catalyst Africa.

1. How to build a city when the kitty is low

Speaker: Mme Khomotso Letsasti, Group Executive, Lanseria Smart City SPV

2. Africa is not only South Africa

Speaker: Mme Umulinga Karangwa CFA, Co-Lead Asset Management, Trade & Development Bank

4.20 p.m. - 5.25 p.m.

ROOM 1

Moderator: Dr. Tsotetsi Makong, Chief Technical Advisor, Office of the Secretary General, AfCFTA Secretariat

Presentation: Enhancing intra-African trade through digital technologies by: Lola Aworanti-Ekugo. Digital Executive & Director, SWIT – Odu’a Investment Company (Nigeria).

Presentation: Developments in implementation of Africa’s Digital Trade Protocol by: Dr. Dirk te Velde. Principal Research Fellow & Director of International Economic Development Group, ODI.

Summary

This session delves into the essentials of digital trade in Africa. Armed with findings from research, Government leaders and private sector will examine how digital connectivity serves as the backbone for cross-border trade and acts as a catalyst for boosting African exports. The group will shine a spotlight on policies that either support or obstruct this progress.

Panel:

  1. Dr Joy Kategekwa. Director, AFDB Regional Integration and Coordination Office.
  2. Julie Crowley. Canadian High Commissioner to Rwanda.
  3. Hannes Berggren. National Board of Trade, Sweden.
  4. Gilbert Ewehmeh. Chairman / Continental Coordinator Accelerate Africa (AA).
  5. Prof. David Luke. Professor in Practice and Strategic Director, Firoz Lalji Institute for Africa.

4.20 p.m. - 5.25 p.m.

ROOM 2

Moderator: Patrick Obath. Vice Chair, International Chamber of Commerce

Presentation: Environmentally friendly best fleet management practices by: Prof. Alwin Hofman. North-West University (NWU)

Summary

This session explores insights from Southern Africa’s initiative to green its logistical transport systems. Prof. Alwin Hofman will highlight practical learning points and actionable strategies that other African nations can employ to improve their transport logistics practices for better sustainability.

Panel:

  1. Philippe Ndikumana, President Federation of East Africa Freight Forwarders.
  2. Captain William Ruto, MD, Kenya Ports Authority.
  3. Mrs Elizabeth Getahun, President, Ethio Logistics Sectorial Association.
  4. Dr. Merian Sebunya, Chairperson BTS and Chair National Logistics platform – Private Sector Uganda
  5. Ziad M. Hamoui, National President, Ghana Borderless Alliance

5.40 p.m.

Please Mingle Over a Cup of Coffee

7.00 p.m.

VENUE: HIGH COMMISSIONERS RESIDENCE, KACYIRU 

8.00 a.m. - 9.00 a.m.

Facilitated by: TradeMark Africa

9.00 a.m. - 9.15 a.m.

Speaker: Ms. Annerose Ngemu, Senior Manager, Digital Business (Global Trade)

Introduced by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), the Africa Trade Gateway (ATG) is a dynamic digital trade ecosystem for Commercial banks and their trading customers. Constantly evolving, it is designed to revolutionise cross-border trade across Africa and seize the opportunity of the African Continental Free Trade Area. The Africa Trade Gateway (ATG) is an innovative suite of digital services and solutions designed to support commercial banks and their trading customers to:

  1. Originate and accelerate trade in African goods and services in adherence with the AfCFTA rules of origin.
  2. Engage with trusted African counterparties and enhance their compliance status within the ecosystem.
  3. Participate in diverse financing facilities for trade and supply chain activities
  4. Conduct local currency payments and other forms of value exchange across borders.
  5. Research African value chains and navigate African trade regulations 

 

9.20 a.m. - 10.25 a.m.

Host: Pascal Lamy. President, Paris Peace Forum and Former WTO Director General

ROOM 1

A chat with Secretary Generals, Development Partners and Private Sector from Africa’s Regional Economic Communities.

Panel:

  1. Amb. Erastus Mwencha. Former Deputy SG, Comesa.
  2. Annette Mutaawe. Deputy Secretary General, East Africa Community Secretariat.
  3. Belén Calvo Uyarra. European Union Ambassador to Rwanda.
  4. Mr. Jas Bedi. Chairman, Kenya Export Promotion &
    Branding Agency.
  5. Dr. Ozonnia Ojielo. UN Resident Coordinator and Chairperson of the Development Partners Forum

10.30 a.m. - 10.45 a.m.

Dr Simon Mevel will unpack the latest UNECA findings on
digital integration, under the African Regional Integration Index;
providing insights on priorities for AfCFTA digital regulations
harmonisation

By: Dr. Simon Mevel, UNECA

10.50 a.m. - 11.40 a.m.

Moderated By: Rosine Uwamariya, Country Director, TMA Rwanda

African experiences in Artificial Intelligence for Customs Agency enhancements in Africa.

Presented by: David Smason, CEO, Cargo Seer

ROOM: Kilimanjaro

During a live demonstration, Cargo Seer will illustrate the potential of Artificial Intelligence in enhancing customs operations, streamlining processes, and boosting efficiency. This presentation will set the stage for a discussion between Revenue Authorities Commissioners and players from the private sector on the practical adoption of AI within Customs Agencies.

Discussion point
Increasing trust: The place of distributed ledger technology (DLT) and Artificial Intelligence with an emphasis on how AI can enhance transparency, efficiency, and trust in customs operations, which is important for increasing trust in digital technologies within governmental operations.

Panel:

  1. Mr Mwumvaneza Felicien, Commissioner for Customs, Rwanda
    Revenue Authority.
  2. Mr. Roger Nkubito, Managing Director, Africa Global Logistics
    (AGL)
  3. Flavia Busingye, Director Customs, East Africa Community
    Secretariat.
  4. Albert Atambo, Chief Manager, Scanner Management,
    Business Transformation Office, KRA.

11.45 a.m. - 12.00 p.m.

OPEN MIC: THE HOT TAKE ON THE HOT SEAT RAPID FIRE

ON THE MIC: Adetola Onayemi, Founder, NoreBase and Technical Expert AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol & Hilda Moraa, Founder, Pezesha

Discussion Points

  1. What are the pioneering advances in digital finance as we envision a future where digital infrastructure across Africa is democratised – making access, availability, and usability universal?
  2. Where is the next wave of technological innovations in facilitating trade and is Africa part of it?

12.00 p.m. - 1.00 p.m.

Host: Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi, Former Secretary-General, UNCTAD 

 

Digital innovations towards no stop borders.

Presented by: Dr. Bruce Byiers, Associate Director, Sustainable and inclusive economic development, ECPDM

ROOM: Kilimanjaro

Summary

Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi will guide the discussion during this visionary session that will dissect the future trajectory of border management-Borders 2.0, venturing beyond the concept of One Stop Borders to No Stop borders. Policy leaders from regional communities and global private sector representatives will dissect the elements necessary
to forge a border-less Africa, covering everything from policy imperatives and financial frameworks to the impact of political  economies and the top technological innovations designed to dissolve physical, imagined, and bureaucratic barriers. This session is dedicated to envisioning a continent interconnected by ideas and opportunities, rather than constrained by borders.

Discussion Point

The Future for Policy: Integrating Digital Technologies into Traditional Trade Governance Frameworks.

Panel:

  1. Ole Thonke, Under Secretary for Development Policy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Denmark 
  2. Annette Mutaawe, Deputy Secretary General, East Africa
    Community Secretariat.
  3. Prof Dominic McVey, Board, TMA.
  4. Ms Jacqueline Mkindi, CEO, Tanzania Horticulture Association.
  5. Mulualem Syoum, CEO, Ae Trade Group.
  6. Ahmed Farah, CEO, Kenya National Chamber of
    Commerce and Industry.

1.05 p.m. - 2.05 p.m.

BANTU BAZAAR and LUNCH BREAK FOR ALL DELEGATES


LUNCH SESSION FOR MINISTER, AMBASSADORS AND CEOs (By Invitation)

 

 

2.10 p.m. - 2.50 p.m.

Moderated by: Mr. Sanjay Rughani, CEO, Standard Chartered Bank, Uganda.

ROOM: Kilimanjaro

Presentation

Advancing Firm Digitalisation in Sub-Saharan Africa to promote SME competitiveness and access to global markets

By: Florian Borino, International Trade Centre

Summary

This session will delve into the intricacies of digital transformation and explore what it takes for businesses to thrive in the digital arena. From the technical foundations to fostering an ecosystem where the workforce is proficient in digital subtleties and operates within a supportive regulatory framework. We believe that exposure to technologically advanced enterprises internationally not only inspires but also quickens the digital journeys of local businesses.

In this session, the International Trade Centre will provide evidence of those who have successfully navigated this path,  showing how engagements with globally advanced digital enterprises can offer both inspiration and practical momentum to local companies.

Discussion Point

Evolution of e-commerce: Digital Trade as a catalyst for expanding opportunity to markets.

Panel:

  1. Hon Lucia Lipumbu, Minister of Trade and Industry, Namibia.
  2. Tobias Alando, CEO, Kenya Association of Manufacturers.
  3. Kampeta Pichette, CEO, Rwanda Development Bank
  4. Mr Stephane Miezan, President, Ghana National Chamber of
    Commerce.
  5. Lucy Nshuti Mbabazi, CEO, Better Than Cash Alliance

2.10 p.m. - 2.50 p.m.

Moderator: Daniel Wilcox, British High Commission, Kenya

ROOM 2

Presentation

Trade Logistics  Information Pipeline-Co-Developing a digital supply chain management suite for international trade trust  systems.

Presenter: Jens Lund Nielsen, IOTA Foundation.

Summary

Imagine a world where trade flows seamlessly, free from the time consuming paper-based processes. This is the vision promised by Trade Logistics  Information Pipeline (TLIP) developed by TMA, IOTA and KRA. However, for this vision to  materialise, trust is paramount. As we look at scaling up, how do  countries and firms build the necessary trust to take this digital step forward?
Armed with insights from the implementation of TLIP, discussants will dissect the various layers of trust-from policy frameworks and technical assurances to the political will essential for successful digital transitions.
These elements must  converge to foster an  environment conducive to adopting paperless trade systems. Indeed, a seamless paperless trade future  appears achievable as soon as 2025.

Discussion Point

Increasing trust: The place of distributed ledger technology (DLT) and Artificial Intelligence in facilitating trade in Africa.

Panel:

  1. Frank Matsaert, Senior Adviser and Global Lead, Trade and Infrastructure, Tony Blair Institute
  2. Kimberley Botwright, Head, Sustainable Trade, World Economic Forum
  3. Erick Sirali, Director, Digital Trade , TMA
  4. Raphel Kiptis, Group Head of Finance, Sian Roses
  5. Lukoye Erick, Head of Projects, KenTrade

2.55 p.m. - 3.00 p.m.

Know something unique about someone.

3.05 p.m. - 3.15 p.m.

OPEN MIC

By: Patrick Buchana, CEO, AC Group Rwanda and Forbes Afrique top 30, 2018

3.20 p.m. - 4.30 p.m.

Presentation of matters arising from the conference and proposed actions to take forward.

By: David Beer, CEO, TMA
(and introduce Ministerial round table)

ROOM 1

MINISTERIAL ROUND TABLE AND PRONOUNCEMENT

CHAIR: H.E Hailemariam Desalegn Boshe, TMA Board Chair and former Prime Minister of Ethiopia.

Summary

The ministerial round table brings together ministers and policy makers from across the globe, leaders of multi-laterals and DFI’s who will unpack the outcomes of the conference. Each contributor will bring their perspective to the forefront, challenging assumptions, and commitment to move the needle in African trade.
This is where practice, policy and innovations will intersect and give us a  sneak peek into the future.
The intended outcome is an action document that TMA and partners will use to engage widely beyond the conference as we drive the African Digital Trade agenda forward.

All present regional trade ministers:

  1. Hon. Prudence Sebahizi, Minister of Trade and Industry, Rwanda.
  2. Hon. Lucia Lipumbu, Minister of Trade and  Industry, Namibia.
  3. Hon. Exaud Silaoneka Kigahe, Deputy Minister of Industry & Trade, Tanzania.
  4. Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya, Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs, Kenya
  5. Hon. Sosten Alfred, Minister of Trade and Industry, Malawi.
  6. H.E. Mohamed Warsama Dirieh, Minister of Trade, Djibouti.
  7. Hon. Frederick Ngobi Gume, State Minister for Cooperatives, Uganda

4.30 p.m. - 4.35 p.m.

Let’s Make Memories!

4.35 p.m. - 5.25 p.m.

JERRY ARDJORORO 

9.15 a.m. - 9.20 a.m.

9.20 a.m. - 9.30 a.m.

Patrick Obath, Board Chair, TCA

9.30 a.m. - 9.40 a.m.

Duncan Onyango – CEO, TCA

9.40 a.m. - 11.00 a.m.

Prof. William Kosar, Trade Specialist, Senior Legal Advisor, Kenya

11.00 a.m. - 11.30 a.m.

  1. Dr. Joy Kategekwa, Director of Regional Integration, AfDB
  2. Patricia Ojangóle, CEO, Uganda Development Bank
  3. Mr. Samson Vese, Vice President, Treasury & Financial Institutions, Africa Finance Corporation (AFC)
     

11.30 a.m. - 11.45 a.m.

Make a New Friend

11.45 a.m. - 12.15 p.m.

  1. Mr. Abhishek Sharma, Chief of Party, TCA
  2. Antoinette Tesha, Investment Director, TCA

12.15 p.m. - 12.45 p.m.

A presentation of the Contech Modular EPZ project

By: Naeem Pasta, Founder & CEO, Container Technology Ltd

Antoinette Tesha, Investment Director, TCA

12.45 p.m.

Africa Trade Development Forum

2-3 December 2024 | Kigali,Rwanda.

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