At the prestigious World Chambers Federation (WCF) Europe & Asia Summit held in İstanbul, Türkiye, significant strides were made towards advancing global business cooperation and fostering deeper connections between chambers across continents. The highlight of the event was the official handover of leadership responsibilities for the upcoming WCF Africa Summit, scheduled to take place from April 9- 11, 2025, in Nairobi, Kenya.

In a symbolic moment that underscores the growing prominence of Africa in the global trade and economic ecosystem, Dr. Erick Rutto, President of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), was officially handed the mantle by M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu, President of TOBB and Chair of the World Chambers Federation (WCF), alongside John W.H. Denton AO, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and Philippe Varin, Chair of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC).

This handover marks the formal transition of leadership as Africa prepares to host the WCF Summit for the first time in Nairobi, setting the stage for the continent to take a leading role in driving global economic development through AfCFTA and Africa’s industrialization initiatives.

Dr. Erick Rutto, in accepting the leadership, highlighted the significance of the upcoming WCF Africa Summit 2025 in furthering the mission of the WCF.

He emphasized Africa’s growing economic potential and the crucial role of chambers of commerce in unlocking new opportunities through public-private partnerships, digital transformation, and sustainability initiatives.

“Africa is ready to lead the conversation on inclusive economic growth and trade integration. With the power of the AfCFTA and our collective efforts, we will position African businesses on the global stage,” Dr. Rutto stated.

The WCF Africa Summit 2025 promises to bring together key stakeholders from across the globe, facilitating discussions on pressing issues such as global trade, technology innovation, and sustainable development, while highlighting the strategic importance of Africa’s private sector in the global economy.

Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu, reflecting on the handover, remarked, “We are confident that under Dr. Rutto’s leadership, the WCF Africa Summit 2025 will create impactful outcomes for chambers globally, and drive economic transformation across Africa.”

The 2025 summit will build on the collaborative spirit fostered in İstanbul, bringing together business leaders, policy-makers, and chamber representatives to explore actionable strategies that address the global challenges of today and tomorrow.

John W.H. Denton AO added, “The ICC is excited to expand its reach to Africa, promoting shared prosperity through trade, and driving the global economy toward more inclusive growth.

WCF Africa Summit will be the largest business gathering in 2025”

As the stage is set for Africa to host its inaugural WCF Summit, the global business community looks to Nairobi in 2025, where new partnerships and bold initiatives will be formed, ensuring that chambers worldwide can continue to lead their regions to greater economic success.