Nairobi, Kenya:  The 18th Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Business Forum and Exhibition officially opened on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, attracting more than 300 stakeholders from across the region.

The high-level gathering brings together representatives from both the private and public sectors to explore new opportunities for economic growth and integration.

Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki presided over the opening ceremony, underscoring Kenya’s commitment to regional cooperation and the adoption of emerging technologies to unlock Africa’s potential.

The two-day forum is themed “Leveraging Digitalization to Deepen Regional Value Chains for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth.” It focuses on harnessing innovations in artificial intelligence, satellite applications, and smart technologies to strengthen trade, agriculture, and industrial competitiveness among COMESA member states.

Key speakers, including COMESA Secretary General Chileshe Mpundu Kapwepwe and Council of Ministers Chair Dr. Hassan Kibeya, called for increased investment in digital infrastructure, enhanced access to financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and harmonized regulatory frameworks to facilitate smoother cross-border trade.

According to the organizers, the forum is expected to yield actionable strategies aimed at advancing agricultural transformation, deepening regional value chains, and accelerating the continent’s integration agenda.