Okonjo-Iweala and Cardoso to Lead Africa Emerging Markets Forum Amid Global Economic Uncertainty
Global and African economic leaders are set to meet in Abuja for two days of discussions focused on helping African economies navigate growing global uncertainty and create sustainable growth.
Africa's economic future will take center stage in Abuja this week as Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Olayemi Cardoso and World Trade Organization Director General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala headline the 7th Africa Emerging Markets Forum.
The two leaders are expected to lead a high-level fireside discussion on July 29 and 30 under the theme, "Building Resilience Amidst Geoeconomic Uncertainties." The event will be held at the Central Bank of Nigeria headquarters in Abuja and will be available in a hybrid format, allowing invited guests to attend in person while others follow the sessions through the CBN's official website and social media platforms.
The forum comes at a time when African economies continue to face rising inflation, supply chain disruptions, trade tensions, climate-related shocks, currency pressures and slower global growth. Policymakers across the continent are searching for practical ways to build stronger economies while reducing exposure to external risks.
Organised by the Central Bank of Nigeria in partnership with the Emerging Markets Forum and the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa, the gathering will bring together central bank governors, finance ministers, economists, development partners, investors and private sector leaders from across Africa and other regions.
The fireside conversation between Cardoso and Okonjo-Iweala is expected to focus on policy actions that help African countries strengthen economic resilience, sustain ongoing reforms, deepen regional trade and support long-term growth despite an uncertain global economy. Discussions are also expected to examine the role of stronger institutions, cross-border cooperation and investment in improving economic stability.
Regional integration is expected to feature strongly during the discussions. The African Continental Free Trade Area continues to offer one of the continent's biggest opportunities to expand intra-African trade, boost industrial growth, and reduce dependence on external markets. However, experts have repeatedly pointed to infrastructure gaps, financing challenges and policy coordination as major issues slowing implementation.
Technology and innovation are also expected to receive attention during the forum. According to organisers, participants will discuss financial technology, artificial intelligence, digital payments, infrastructure development, foreign direct investment and technology transfer as important drivers of economic transformation. These areas are increasingly viewed as essential for improving productivity, expanding financial inclusion and making African economies more competitive.
Beyond the headline dialogue, the forum will feature keynote sessions from senior government officials and international economic experts. Organisers say the discussions are designed to produce practical policy recommendations rather than broad declarations, with a focus on helping emerging African economies respond to global economic changes and create sustainable growth opportunities.
For Nigeria, hosting the forum also highlights the country's effort to position itself as a platform for regional economic dialogue at a time when governments across Africa are balancing inflation control, economic reforms, investment attraction and job creation.
As global uncertainty continues to shape trade, finance and investment decisions, this year's Africa Emerging Markets Forum offers policymakers and business leaders an opportunity to exchange ideas on how Africa builds stronger, more resilient economies for the years ahead.
