ACSIS 2024 Highlights

The opening day of the African Caribbean Sustainability & Investment Summit (ACSIS) at the UK House of Lords brought together high-profile dignitaries, emphasizing the urgency of South-South cooperation. Hugh Walker, Head of the Africa Strategy Department at the UK’s Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, stressed that “the time is now” for African and Caribbean entrepreneurs to unite for greater efficiencies.

The Baroness Verma of Leicester opened the summit with remarks about progress in both regions. Chi Onwurah MP celebrated Nigeria’s participation in discussions fostering collaboration and growth between these regions. H.E. Dr. Karen-Mae Hill, High Commissioner for Antigua & Barbuda, highlighted the untapped value of small island states’ maritime assets in her address on “The Caribbean’s Blue Economy: Opportunities for Growth.”

Segun Ajayi-Kadir, mni, Director General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, underscored the Caribbean’s growing role as a strategic partner, leveraging its strengths in tourism and cultural industries. 

Day II of the African Caribbean Sustainability & Investment Summit (ACSIS) delivered impactful discussions, starting with a Morning Coffee Chill, hosted by Michael Lutterodt – Quarcoo Amaning. Jane Dalton, ABACO Group (UK) Ltd., highlighted the transformative role of tech in farming through precision agriculture and agrivoltaics, while Ngozi Oyewole M.CIoD FITD Entrepreneur /Advocate, Commonwealth Businesswomen – Africa, spotlighted women’s pivotal role in African agriculture.

Key panels explored critical topics: Connectivity & Sustainability: Moderated by Dr. Jimlas Opeyemi Ogunsakin, with insights from Pascale Elie on cellular technology’s impact and Leon Owuso stressing electrification for community development. Tourism & Community Development: Jamie-Lee Abtar led a discussion featuring H.E. Racher Croney on Grenada’s inclusive tourism policies and Grace Munyiri on women’s contributions in Kenya.

Other highlights included Dr. Michelle S. Moseley’s trade insights with Opeyemi Abebe, Chris Desai’s call for a circular economy, and cybersecurity guidance from Lawrence McEwen. Beth Knight shared Lloyds Bank’s inclusivity efforts; Cheryll Rogers, CEO Fairbreak Global – Early youth education, shared with delegates how she crafted a programme to educate every Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 teacher in Antigua and Barbuda, to become a qualified reading coach; while Alim Kamara captivated attendees with storytelling’s power in business.

The day concluded with Saint Lucian drumming, dancing, and a heartfelt vote of thanks from Farai Ian Muvuti, CEO of The Southern African Times.