Day I: Opening of the African Caribbean Sustainability & Investment Summit (ACSIS)
The opening day of the African Caribbean Sustainability & Investment Summit (ACSIS) at the UK House of Lords brought together high-profile dignitaries, emphasizing the urgency of South-South cooperation.
Hugh Walker, Head of the Africa Strategy Department at the UK’s Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, stressed that “the time is now” for African and Caribbean entrepreneurs to unite for greater efficiencies.
Ambassador Colin Murdoch, Permanent Observer for the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States to the UN. Photo courtesy CaribDirect
Chi Onwurah MP celebrated Nigeria’s participation in discussions fostering collaboration and growth between these regions. H.E. Dr. Karen-Mae Hill, High Commissioner for Antigua & Barbuda, highlighted the untapped value of small island states’ maritime assets in her address on “The Caribbean’s Blue Economy: Opportunities for Growth.”
Segun Ajayi-Kadir, mni, Director General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, underscored the Caribbean’s growing role as a strategic partner, leveraging its strengths in tourism and cultural industries.
H. E Dr Karen-Mae Hill OBE speaking at the House of Lords. Photo courtesy CaribDirect
ACSIS sets the stage for impactful cross-regional innovation and collaboration.
Day II: Insights and Collaboration at ACSIS
Day II of the African Caribbean Sustainability & Investment Summit (ACSIS) delivered impactful discussions, starting with a Morning Coffee Chill, hosted by Michael Lutterodt – Quarcoo Amaning. Jane Dalton of ABACO Group (UK) Ltd. highlighted the transformative role of tech in farming through precision agriculture and agrivoltaics, while Ngozi Oyewole, Entrepreneur and Advocate for Commonwealth Businesswomen – Africa, spotlighted women’s pivotal role in African agriculture.
Mr Hugh Walker, Head Africa Strategy Department, Foreign and Commonwealth Office at the House of Lords. Photo courtesy CaribDirect
Key panels explored critical topics:
- Connectivity & Sustainability: Moderated by Dr. Jimlas Opeyemi Ogunsakin, with insights from Pascale Elie on cellular technology’s impact and Leon Owusu stressing electrification for community development.
- Tourism & Community Development: Jamie-Lee Abtar led a discussion featuring H.E. Racher Croney on Grenada’s inclusive tourism policies and Grace Munyiri on women’s contributions in Kenya.
Other highlights included:
- Dr. Michelle S. Moseley, Ph.D., MBA, FMA, CLC, discussing trade with Opeyemi Abebe.
- Chris Desai’s call for a circular economy.
- Cybersecurity guidance from Lawrence McEwen.
- Beth Knight sharing Lloyds Bank’s inclusivity efforts.
- Cheryll Rogers, CEO of Fairbreak Global, presenting an initiative to train Kindergarten, Year 1, and Year 2 teachers in Antigua and Barbuda to become qualified reading coaches.
- Alim Kamara captivating attendees with storytelling’s power in business.
The day concluded with vibrant Saint Lucian drumming, dancing, and a heartfelt vote of thanks from Farai Ian Muvuti, CEO of The Southern African Times.
ACSIS continues to inspire collaboration and actionable change!
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