In July 2019, Wael Abdin, SCLO’s Managing Partner attended the highly anticipated 6th Annual Africa Forum hosted by Hogan Lovells in the beautiful surroundings of the illustrious Merchant Taylors’ Hall in the City of London.

The theme for this year's event was "Africa Making an Impact" covering topics such as sustainability, longevity, scalability and capacity including the impact intended by global investors. 

Prof. Okey Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, delivered the opening keynote address. 

Speaking at the “Regional debate” an eminent panel of leading diplomats from across the continent discussed how each of their countries is dealing with a new world order specifically how African governments are ensuring their countries are open for global business and what they are doing to make an impact.  This distinguished panel consisted of H.E Yamina Karitanyi, High Commissioner for the Republic of Rwanda to the United Kingdom; H.E. Papa Owusu-Ankomah, Ghana’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Ireland; H.E. Rui J. Carneiro Mangueira, Ambassador of Angola to the United Kingdom; and Paul Arkwright, CEO of HMG's Africa Summit, and former High Commissioner to Nigeria.  Andrew Skipper Partner and Head of Hogan Lovells Africa Practice was Panel moderator.

During “CEO Corner” leaders of some of Africa's most successful businesses discussed and debated their views on how Africa is making an impact in global business.  The panel consisted of Dr.Papa Kwesi Nduom, President & Chairman – Groupe Nduom; Kuseni Dlamini, Chairman - Massmart, Aspen Pharmacare Holdings, The American Chamber of Commerce in South Africa; and Prof. Okey Oramah, President and Chairman of the board of Directors – Afreximbank.  Susan Bright, Regional Managing Partner of Hogan Lovells UK and Africa was Panel moderator.

The Closing Keynote Speaker was internationally renowned entrepreneur, Kanya King CBE.  Kanya is the founder and CEO of MOBO (Music of Black Origin) Awards. Kanya was recently presented with a CBE and has been acclaimed as one of UK’s Most Influential People.  It was a pleasure to hear her speak at such an event.

Following a successful day, delegates were able to relax and enjoy the surroundings whilst networking to the sound of traditional African music delivered by a live band.