UK and African Leaders Convene for Strategic Trade Deals
Business leaders from ten rapidly growing African nations gathered in Lomé, Togo, this week to explore partnerships that enhance economic growth and job creation. Over 560 delegates from 442 companies representing 200 million people are participating in the West and Central Africa Forum (WCAF) IV on 12-13 November 2025.
Expanding UK-Africa Trade Relations
This year marks the first time the WCAF has been held outside London since its 2022 launch, underscoring the UK’s commitment to long-term UK-Africa trade relations. The two-day summit features bilateral meetings and panel discussions focused on infrastructure, renewable energy, green growth, and digital transformation — sectors crucial for both African development and UK export opportunities.
Supporting Francophone West Africa Expansion
Through WCAF, the UK Export Finance (UKEF) enables Francophone private-sector companies to access competitive financing while opening new markets for UK exporters. UKEF’s involvement has already yielded results, including an $11 million guarantee for a mining contractor in Guinea, linking UK expertise with local business growth and employment creation.
John Humphrey, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Africa, said:
“Africa is home to some of the world’s fastest-growing markets. It is diverse, vibrant, and full of opportunities for UK businesses seeking to export and invest. WCAF IV is a platform to deepen partnerships, drive inclusive growth, and unlock the potential of UK-African collaboration.”
DMA Invest CEO, Atam Sandhu, added:
“This forum represents a high watermark in UK trade with Francophone West and Central Africa, with over 600 government and industry leaders attending. The choice of Togo demonstrates the UK’s commitment is local, practical, and long-term.”
Driving Africa Investment Initiatives
UKEF CEO Tim Reid highlighted that WCAF facilitates long-term UK-African partnerships that promote job creation and economic growth at home and abroad. The forum has consistently resulted in agreements showcasing UKEF’s impact on global trade while supporting UK businesses.
The WCAF summit, organized by UKEF in collaboration with DMA Invest, has become a cornerstone platform since 2022 for strengthening Africa investment initiatives and expanding bilateral trade networks.
For more opportunities and related travel info, visit Travel Afrikeye.
This story was first reported by UK Export Finance. Read the full article here.
