New records with over 2,200 participants and 6,000 business meetings at FIAD 2024

The 2024 edition of the International Forum on Africa Development (FIAD), orchestrated by the Pan-African Investment Fund (Al Mada), exceeded all expectations once again. Held from June 27 to 28, under the theme “Investing Here,” and under the distinguished patronage of King Mohammed VI, Casablanca played host to this significant gathering.

According to Mohamed El Kettani, CEO of Attijariwafa Bank Group, the event was a resounding success, drawing over 2,200 participants from 30 African countries, including economic operators, institutional representatives, and government officials, who engaged in nearly 6,000 business meetings. The enthusiasm witnessed was exceptional, cementing FIAD as the premier event for economic and commercial exchanges in Africa.

“We were over 2,200 participants who left our mark on this forum, setting a true record that fills us with immense pride. The exceptional commitment of all participants in this 2024 edition is unparalleled, urging us to redouble our efforts to make this African platform accessible to as many as possible, at a time when African mobilization towards their continent is deeply ingrained in our DNA,” remarked Mohamed El Kettani during the closing ceremony of FIAD on Friday, June 28, in Casablanca.

Under the high patronage of King Mohammed VI, this event was organized by Attijariwafa Bank Group with the impetus of the Pan-African Investment Fund “Al Mada.”

FIAD 2024 focused on the theme “Investing Here,” with the Secretary General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Wamkele Mene, as the guest of honor. The event saw the participation of numerous dignitaries, including ministers from various African countries and business leaders.

Over 2,200 economic operators, institutional representatives, and government officials from 30 African countries gathered to discuss the challenges and opportunities related to the continent’s development.

Regarding the investment marketplace, 11 countries were highlighted, including Mali, Benin, Cameroon, Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Gabon, Mauritania, Senegal, Togo, and Morocco.

The business-to-business meetings were particularly crucial for forging new partnerships. Mohamed El Kettani expressed great satisfaction, stating, “This enthusiasm and entrepreneurial spirit make us extremely proud, underscoring the vibrancy and dynamism observed throughout this Forum.”

FIAD also featured plenary sessions covering diverse topics such as “Africa Investing: Paradigm Shifts,” led by Antoine Thomas Nicephore Fylla De Saint-Eudes, Minister of Industrial Development and Private Sector Promotion of Congo; Babacar Gning, CEO of Senegal’s Sovereign Investment Fund; Ambassador Mohamed Methqal, Director General of the Moroccan Agency for International Cooperation (Amci); and Nelly Chatue Diop, Founder and CEO of Ejara from Cameroon.

The second plenary session focused on “Building Opportunities: Spotlight on the African Continental Free Trade Area,” moderated by Mossadeck Bally, President of the National Council of Employers of Mali; Cynthia Gnassingbé Essonam, Senior Advisor for Private Sector Engagement at the AfCFTA Secretariat; Chakib Alj, President of the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises; and Célestin Tawamba, President of the Group of Companies of Cameroon.

The final plenary centered on “Sustainable Investment for Sustainable Societies,” featuring speakers such as Kendra Gaither, President of the US Africa Business Center; Imad Toumi, CEO of Groupe Managem; Briggette Harrington, President and CEO of Igire Coffee Company in Rwanda; and Redda Ben Geloune, CEO of Aitek Group from Côte d’Ivoire.