PACCI Convenes 18th Executive Council Meeting

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PACCI Hosts 18th Executive Council Meeting in N’Djamena, Chad, Advancing Regional Trade Dialogue  

March 28, 2025

by PACCI Secretariat

The Pan African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PACCI) convened its 18th Executive Council Meeting in N’Djamena, Chad, from March 26–27, 2025. This significant high-level gathering brought together prominent leaders of national chambers of commerce from across the continent to reflect on PACCI’s progress, shape its strategic priorities, and foster deeper cooperation to drive African trade and economic transformation.

The meeting was chaired by Mr. Ali Adj Mahamat Seid, President of PACCI and of the Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Agriculture, Mines, and Handicrafts of Chad (CCIAMA). Held in Chad’s capital, the Executive Council Meeting served as both a strategic working session and a diplomatic engagement opportunity, reinforcing PACCI’s role as a key facilitator of regional economic dialogue.

Distinguished Participants

Attending the meeting were members of PACCI’s Executive Council and leadership team, including:

  • Mr. Kamilou Arouna, Vice President of the Benin Chamber of Commerce and Industry

  • Mr. Stéphane Miezan Abbas, President of the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI)

  • Mrs. Badiata Kafun Magaly, President of the Chamber of Commerce of the Democratic Republic of Congo

  • Mr. Chabuka Kawesha, Immediate Past President of the Zambia National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZNCCI)

  • Ms. Joyce Mwangi, Development Communication Specialist at the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI)

From PACCI’s Secretariat, Executive Director Mr. Kebour Ghenna and Senior Programs Manager Ms. Wincate Muthini led discussions on programmatic updates and key milestones. Mr. Philip Bvekwa of Atlas Convention, a PACCI partner supporting regional engagements, also joined the session.

High-Level Meetings with the Government of Chad

During the mission, the PACCI delegation paid a courtesy visit to Amb: Allah Maye Halina, Prime Minister of the Republic of Chad. The meeting underscored PACCI’s commitment to working closely with African Heads of State and policymakers to create an enabling environment for the private sector and regional trade.

The delegation also held fruitful discussions with H.E. Mathieu Guibolo Fanga, Chad’s Minister of Trade. The dialogue focused on the upcoming Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF), trade facilitation opportunities for Chadian enterprises, and broader regional integration efforts under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to closer collaboration in promoting Africa’s industrialization and private sector-led growth.

Moving PACCI’s Agenda Forward

The 18th Executive Council Meeting offered a platform for reflecting on PACCI’s recent work and setting the agenda for the remainder of 2025. Key focus areas included:

  • Strengthening the capacity of national chambers and business associations

  • Expanding regional cooperation, particularly in supporting SMEs across borders

  • Promoting participation in flagship continental trade platforms, such as IATF and the AfCFTA

  • Enhancing PACCI’s role in policy advocacy and private sector representation at regional and international forums

Participants emphasized the importance of unity among African chambers and the role of PACCI as a trusted convener and champion of the continent’s business community.

Conclusion

The success of the Executive Council Meeting in N’Djamena marked another important step in PACCI’s mission to connect, empower, and amplify African businesses. With renewed commitments, strengthened partnerships, and deeper engagement with national governments, PACCI continues to position itself as a central actor in building a more integrated and prosperous Africa.