Atlas Convention Launches Investment Roadshow in Harare
Atlas Convention Launches Transnational Roadshow in Harare, Spotlighting “Investing in Africa’s Prosperity”
Harare hosts the first leg of the Atlas Convention’s continent-wide investment roadshow, with support from PACCI and regional partners
Harare, Zimbabwe – April 16, 2025
by PACCI Secretariat
The Atlas Convention officially launched its Transnational Roadshow in Harare under the banner “Investing in Africa’s Prosperity,” setting the stage for a pan-African drive to position the continent as a prime destination for global investment. Supported by key institutions including the Pan African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PACCI), the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC), and the CEO Africa Roundtable, the event marks the beginning of a series of high-level gatherings in the lead-up to the Atlas Convention 2025, scheduled to take place in Victoria Falls this August.
Hosted at the Monomotapa Hotel, the half-day event drew delegates from 17 countries, 8 embassies, 19 government ministries, 22 academic institutions, and several development partners, including representatives from the United Nations and the African Development Bank. The gathering served as a platform to showcase regional investment opportunities, deepen strategic partnerships, and advance a vision for sustainable and integrated economic growth across Africa.
Exploring Regional and Global Investment Agendas
The program featured two cornerstone sessions: a Regional Perspective Panel and an International Perspective Panel.
The Regional Perspective session focused on leveraging regional collaboration to scale investment in Southern Africa, particularly through the integration of trade corridors, public-private partnerships (PPPs), and cross-border infrastructure. Panellists from PACCI, SADCAS, Rwanda, ADB, and CEOART discussed ways to harness regional networks and highlight country-specific opportunities in Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Botswana.
The International Perspective session brought together strategic partners from the U.S., UAE, China, the EU, the World Bank, and South African stakeholders to reflect on Africa’s evolving position in the global economy. Discussions explored mechanisms for de-risking investment, improving ease of doing business, and elevating Africa’s global investment profile through tourism, cultural diplomacy, and immersive partnerships.
A Resounding Message from PACCI
Kebour Ghenna, Executive Director of PACCI, delivered a powerful address, urging African governments and institutions to move beyond talk and toward transformative action. His speech resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting both the urgency and potential of Africa’s economic journey.
“The world is changing, and Africa must define its place in it — not as a source of raw materials, but as a powerhouse of innovation, trade, and prosperity,” Ghenna said.
“Let us trade with one another. Let us build the Africa we want — not in slogans, but in ports, in factories, in startups, and in markets.”
He called for the full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), targeted infrastructure development, and inclusive financing models tailored to young entrepreneurs and SMEs.
Laying the Groundwork for Victoria Falls
The Harare roadshow is the first of several strategic stops designed to build momentum toward the Atlas Convention 2025, taking place from August 26–29 in Victoria Falls. With a focus on regional branding, bankable investment projects, and multi-sectoral collaboration, the Convention aims to position Africa’s prosperity not as a distant dream, but a collective and achievable reality.
As the roadshow continues across the continent, Harare’s successful kickoff sets a strong precedent — Africa is ready to engage, ready to partner, and above all, ready to lead.
