Over the years, Africa has positioned itself to move away from aid and grant dependence and become a business hub and a significant player in the global economy.

However, the continent accounts for only about 2% of the global economy, and this is what the US-Africa Summit is seeking to address.

The US-Africa Summit officially opened in Tlokweng village, outside Gaborone, with more than 1,300 delegates from the public and private sectors from both the US and African countries.

Host President Mokgweetsi Masisi of Botswana said, ‘’These summits grant us an immense and consistent opportunity to renew our commitment as government leaders, influential private sector captains, and all other stakeholders to build stronger U.S. and African trade, investment, and commercial ties. This is particularly so in the wake of the unprecedented health and economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic."

Namibia’s Vice President Nangolo Mbumba, Trade Minister Lucia Iipumbu, Minister of Agriculture Carl Schlettwein, and Deputy Minister of Finance Maureen Hinda-Mbuende are in attendance.

The ministers are expected to participate in various sector-focused break-away sessions over the next three days.

The Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board is also facilitating business networking activities on the margins of the US-Africa Summit.