CITD Miami Global Magazine - June 2024

VOL 1. ISSUE 1 FEATURES

54

MIAMI: AFRICA’S GATEWAY TO THE AMERICAS

Miami, the “Gateway to the Americas,” is a vibrant hub, fostering trade, investment, and tourism with the Western Hemisphere. However, its strategic location also positions it as a potential gateway to Africa. The momentum to strengthen ties between Miami and Africa is stronger than ever as the city aims to capitalize on its geographic advantage.

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WHY MIAMI?

Abdelhamid Addou, CEO of Royal Air Maroc, reveals the rationale behind Miami’s selection as a key hub for the airline’s U.S. operations. Since launching the CasablancaMiami route in April 2019, Royal Air Maroc has witnessed positive reception and growth. With plans to expand its fleet, the airline aims to fortify connectivity between Africa and the Americas.

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POLICY INSIGHT:

FLORIDA – AFRICA RELATIONS

Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20) highlights Florida’s significant role in strengthening market ties between the United States and Africa. As Africa’s GDP is expected to rise by $450 billion by 2035, Florida’s unique location takes center stage in advancing US-Africa relations. She advocates for ASTIP, a legislative proposal to support the implementation of the AfCFTA.

Dear Esteemed Readers,

It is with great pleasure and anticipation that I extend a warm welcome to the inaugural edition of the CITD Miami Global Magazine. As Chairperson of the advisory board for the Center for International Trade DevelopmentMiami, I am honored to be part of this exciting endeavor.

In this fast-paced global economy, the need for reliable and insightful information is paramount. The CITD Miami Global Magazine aims to serve as a beacon of knowledge, providing valuable insights into bankable investment prospects and captivating tourism destinations in Africa and the Caribbean.

As we embark on this journey together, I am reminded of the immense potential that exists within rising economies. Through export development, technical assistance, global trade training and research, and community outreach, the CITD Miami is committed to fostering economic growth and prosperity in these regions.

The magazine’s biannual publication, both in print and digital formats, signifies our dedication to reaching a wide audience of investors, executives, and influencers across the globe. With strategic distribution channels and a focus on prime visibility, we aim to connect individuals and organizations to the heartbeat of global competitiveness.

I encourage you to leverage this platform to share your own stories, shape your narratives, and seize the boundless opportunities that await. Together, let us chart a course towards a future defined by innovation, collaboration, and shared success.

Thank you for joining us on this transformative journey. Here’s to a bright and prosperous future ahead.

Warm regards,

LARRY A. RICE, ED.D.

PUBLISHER

Kemi Arosanyin

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Ketsia Fernando

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Uyojo Jeremiah

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Desmond Alufohai

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Andy Heeren

BOARD OF ADVISORS

Larry Rice

Anthony Cambas

Catherine Medina-Agüero

Maurice Kogon

Eyidayo Adebola

CONTRIBUTORS

Royal Air Maroc

PortMiami

Afreximbank

Congresswoman McCormick

Delfina Stuzynska

Evelyn Onyejuruwa

Cyrus Blot

Epiphane Adjadji

Mary-Clare Tomes

Zac Shein

Jerry Haar

Paola Issac

Tarek Mandile

Denitza Bojinova

Dave Buchere

Nancy Sam

Maria & Luiz

Brett McNaught

Sudeshna Chatterjee

Catherine Shipushu

Darrel Montrope

Jane Lemons

GET IN TOUCH

PARTNERSHIP INQUIRIES

info@citdmiami.org

Modernizing Infrastructure Vital to Fulfilling Africa’s Promise

BY JERRY HAAR

Africa’s demographic growth and economic transformation have created an essential task in the continent’s public agenda: accelerating and scaling up infrastructure development.

In the past, infrastructure investments have accounted for more than half the continent’s economic growth, increases in productivity, improvement in human development, and reduction of poverty, according to the African Development Bank, proving that infrastructure investments are necessary for Africa to sustain its growth. The World Bank argues that the poor state of African infrastructure constrains economic growth by 2 percent every year and cuts productivity by as much as 40 percent.

Africa has a vast infrastructure deficit, especially in the sub-Saharan region. Therefore, the principal question remains: How can Africa tackle the infrastructure gap? One of the continent’s main challenges to developing infrastructure investments is the fact that many African governments are faced with rising debtto-GDP ratios, which will limit sovereign spending on infrastructure in the coming years. The countries with the highest debtto-GDP ratios in the region include Eritrea (175%), Cabo Verde (160%), Mozambique (133%), Angola (103%), Mauritius (101%), Zambia (101%), Republic of Congo (85%), and Ghana (83%). A prominent example is sub-Saharan Africa, which a debt-to-GDP ratio of over 50 percent in 2020. Thus, funding is a key challenge for infrastructure projects, which have typically been financed by African governments and constrained by budgetary restrictions. Local banks and financial institutions are not able fund these projects fully, creating the need to diversify sources of funding and boosting public-private partnerships (PPPs). Five African countries accounted for more than 50 percent of all successful PPP activity from 2008 to 2018: South Africa, Morocco, Nigeria, Egypt, and Ghana. Several other countries have multiple PPPs underway. Burkina Faso has 20, and Botswana, 8.

Luckily, funding opportunities are on the horizon. Investors, including government agencies, private sector pension funds, and investment companies from the United States, China, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates have shown considerable interest in African infrastructure projects. Estimates are that such investors have as much as $550 billion in assets under management. Close attention must be given to China, whose investments in Africa have grown steadily at an average annual rate of 10 percent from 2013 to 2017, according to the Infrastructure Consortium of Africa (ICA). For example, as part of China’s Belt and Road initiative, over 90 percent of Kenya’s Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway was financed by China’s EXIM Bank. Additionally, China’s Belt and Road Initiative is set to finance ports, roads, and other infrastructure around the globe. China has become and will continue to be a big spender in Africa. According to the Center for Global Development, a think tank in Washington, between 2007 and 2020 Chinese development banks provided $23 billion for African infrastructure, compared with $9.1 billion from all other development banks.

Unfortunately, structural issues create additional obstacles for infrastructure modernization in Africa. While the volume of current African infrastructure projects expected to be completed by 2025 surpasses $2.5 billion, most of these projects do not come to fruition. An investigation of multiple infrastructure projects in Africa by McKinsey revealed that the completion of infrastructure projects in the region remains low due to several causes at the early stages of project development, including limited pipeline of deals or selection of lowimpact projects; weak feasibility studies and business plans; delays in obtaining licenses, approvals, and permits; inability to agree on risk allocations; inability to secure offtake agreements and guarantees; and poor program delivery. This investigation found that 10 percent of all infrastructure

projects are successfully realized, with over 80 percent of infrastructure projects failing to survive the feasibility and planning stage, and only 50 percent of those achieving financial close.

Given this situation, how can Africa move forward? African governments must take action to increase the viability of projects by focusing on the mitigation of political, currency, and regulatory risks. For example, the governments of Senegal and Zambia, supported by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), have agreed to manage risks and issues related to land, currency, and politics for their solar energy projects. As a result, Zambia’s and Senegal’s projects for the construction of solar power plants have received over 20 bids from international investors.

Infrastructure development in the African continent has been shown to be and will continue to be a catalyst for progress. Fulfilling the demands of a billion more Africans requires increased access to adequate infrastructure, which is currently lacking, particularly in subSaharan Africa. South Africa alone will have an infrastructure investment gap of $293 billion by 2030. The key challenge for the continent is to ensure its growing population has access to reliable services like electricity, water, Internet, and efficient transportation systems. Ensuring adequate funding for infrastructure is another critical step; this will require African governments to demonstrate long-term policy stability and the institutional capacity to guarantee investors that projects will achieve completion. In doing so, Africa will ensure sustainable economic growth through intraAfrican and international trade and increase the well-being to its burgeoning population through access to primary services. n

Jerry Haar is a professor of international business at Florida International University and a global fellow of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington, D.C.

PortMiami and Africa Poised for Growth

BUILDING TRANSATLANTIC PARTNERSHIPS THROUGH SISTER SEAPORT AGREEMENTS

BY PORTMIAMI

Recognized as the Cruise Capital of the World and Global Gateway of the Americas, PortMiami is one of Miami-Dade County’s most important economic engines contributing $61 billion annually to the local economy and supporting more than 340,078 jobs in South Florida. As PortMiami’s cargo and cruise business continues to grow, so does its reach across the globe, including Africa.

For more than three decades, MiamiDade County has engaged with the African continent through trade missions, conferences, educational

and cultural exchange programs, and PortMiami’s International Sister Seaports Program. In 1988, the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners passed a resolution establishing the Sister Seaports Program. Sister Seaport agreements help ports collaborate on the exchange of information and ideas, with the aim of increasing cargo and cruise trade between ports.

Currently, PortMiami has 18 International Sister Seaport Agreements with ports on the African continent namely: Djibouti – Port of

Djibouti, Guinea – Port de Conakry, Côte d’Ivoire – Port Autonome d’Abidjan, Ghana – Ghana Ports and Harbors, Kenya – Malindi Port and Port of Mombasa, Morocco – Port of Casablanca and Port of Tanger Med, Nigeria – Port of Kirikiri and Nigerian Ports Authority (Apapa, Lagos), Sénégal – Port Autonome de Dakar, South Africa – Port of Cape Town, Port of Durban, Port of East London, Port of Mossel Bay, Port of Port Elizabeth, Port of Richards Bay, and Port of Saldanha.

There are many benefits to signing an

FROM LEFT: MME NAFISSATOU BÂ NIANG, PORT AUTONOME DE DAKAR AND MIAMI DADE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS KIONNE MCGHEE AND MARLEINE BASTIEN.

International Sister Seaport Agreement with PortMiami including the commitment to a free and uninhibited exchange of information pertaining to the cargo and cruise industries in each port; historical statistical information on each port; planned seaport infrastructure developments; and general marketing research aimed at increasing cargo and cruise traffic between ports. The agreements can also assist in creating the technical and financial circumstances necessary to promote increased traffic and port activities via joint ventures and other business arrangements as well as forming groups that exchange security information with the aim of strengthening the safety of ports worldwide. Lastly, they can aid in the implementation of educational programs that will help foster goodwill between ports.

During the Miami-Dade County business mission to Africa in August 2023 led by The Honorable Kionne McGhee, Miami-Dade County Commissioner District 9, and The Honorable Marleine Bastien, MiamiDade County Commissioner District 2, the International Sister Seaport Agreement between PortMiami and the Port Autonome de Dakar was renewed. The ports agreed to create a working group that will jointly facilitate the promotion of trade and shipping routes, share best practices for cruise development, and collaborate on environmental sustainability projects.

Furthermore, representatives from PortMiami also visited Port of Freetown, Sierra Leone to explore new partnership opportunities which include Foreign Trade Zone, partnerships with shipping lines that call on both ports, fisheries, and infrastructure.

“Africa is home to one of the

world’s youngest and fastest-growing populations, burgeoning cities, and bold innovations,” says Hydi Webb, Director and CEO, PortMiami. “The continent presents a myriad of opportunities for partnerships, trade, and growth.” n

“Africa is home to one of the world’s youngest and fastest-growing populations, burgeoning cities, and bold innovations”

HYDI WEBB, DIRECTOR AND CEO, PORTMIAMI.

NIMROD SIMEON, PORTMIAMI PRESENTING A GIFT TO MME NAFISSATOU BÂ NIANG.

SelectFlorida, Africa Presence

FLORIDA’S ROBUST INTERNATIONAL OFFICE NETWORK AND ITS IMPACT ON TRADE WITH SOUTH AFRICA

BY ABIGAIL ELLARY

SelectFlorida is the principal economic development agency for the state of Florida. Its mission is to promote the state as a premier business destination and a global hub for finance, transportation, international trade, investment, and culture.

A key initiative that helped Florida to create such an attractive and competitive business environment is its robust international office network of 17 offices in 13 countries which include Africa Regional Office located in Durban, South Africa and a satellite office in Tanzania.

Florida is one of the first U.S. States to establish presence in Africa through a representative office which opened in the 90s, signaling the state’s interest to deepen commercial ties with the continent and to prioritize the region as a strategic market for Florida.

The Africa Regional Office serves as a bridge to foster bilateral trade between Florida and African countries but more importantly, its core functions include providing support to Florida companies to evaluate opportunities and to gain access to the African market while helping African companies to invest and do business in Florida.

Furthermore, the regional office facilitates Florida’s engagement with governments, educational institutions, industry associations, chambers of commerce, sister cities, airports, and seaports among others to enhance technical and cultural exchange.

As a result, total merchandise trade between Florida and South Africa has witnessed a decent growth over the years standing at $305 million in 2023, making it Florida’s number one trading partner in the continent and 62nd largest partner overall.

Florida’s exports to South Africa were $132 million in 2023. Leading export commodities include aircraft, chemical wood pulp, plastics, car parts and orthopedic appliances. It also recorded total import volume of $173 million from

South Africa in 2023. Main import commodities were yachts, iron, steel, ice cream, essential oils and jewelry.

With the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and an expanded presence of SelectFlorida’s office in East Africa, trade between Florida and Africa is poised for growth.

The representative office structure in strategic global markets has paid off. Today, Florida is the largest recipient of foreign direct investment in the Southeast United States, and fifth in the U.S. for employment at foreign-owned companies. Its $1.5 trillion-dollar economy is the 4th largest among U.S. States and would be the 14th largest economy in the world, if measured as a country. n

ABIGAIL ELLARY, DIRECTOR, AFRICA REGIONAL OFFICE AT SELECTFLORIDA

EXIM’s Enduring Partnership with Africa

HOW EXIM IS SUPPORTING FLORIDA COMPANIES TO EXPAND THEIR FOOTPRINTS IN AFRICA

BY JANE LEMONS

With a long history of supporting U.S. trade financing for Africa, the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) plays a key role in building pathways to economic partnership by helping U.S. based businesses of all sizes export their goods and services to Africa.

In 2024, EXIM is celebrating its 90th anniversary, and the federal agency’s support for Africa dates to nearly that beginning. Since its first deal with Angola in 1942, EXIM has been a strong and reliable trading partner for the continent.

In the eight decades since that initial deal with Angola, EXIM’s financing has been a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and greater prosperity throughout the region. In fiscal year 2023, EXIM approved nearly $1.6 billion in authorizations for sub-Saharan Africa.

“EXIM’s deep commitment to sub-Saharan Africa is in our founding charter, and we are firmly committed to financing U.S. exporters, large and small, doing business with African nations,” EXIM President and Chair Reta Jo

Lewis said during the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum in Johannesburg, South Africa. “It was a pleasure to join my colleagues at AGOA to share some of our strong work on the continent and express our strong desire to continue advancing transactions that support U.S. exporters and promote economic prosperity for the U.S. and our partner nations in Africa.”

EXIM is currently open for business in many countries across Africa, and the latest information can be found via the Country Limitation Schedule. EXIM supports U.S. companies with trade finance tools that provide short, medium, and long-term options, including export credit insurance, working capital guarantees, and loan guarantees. To underscore that commitment, EXIM recently signed memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with Tanzania and Côte d’Ivoire, each designed to facilitate up to $500 million in U.S. export financing and deepen the commercial relationship with those countries.

EXIM also signed MOUs, totaling more than $1 billion, with a trio of key African financial institutions — African

RETA JO LEWIS, PRESIDENT AND CHAIR OF U.S. EXIM (LEFT) AND PROF. BENEDICT ORAMAH, PRESIDENT AND CHAIR OF AFREXIMBANK

“EXIM’s deep commitment to subSaharan Africa is in our founding charter, and we are firmly committed to financing U.S. exporters, large and small, doing business with African nations”

Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), and Africa50. In addition, EXIM approved $900 million in financing to support SunAfrica, a Miami-based solar project developer, for two renewable energy projects the company is developing in Angola.

With state and national exports continuing to show strong growth, recent data tracking the upward trajectory for both Florida and U.S. exports illustrates the possibilities.

For the second year in a row, U.S. exports of goods and services surpassed $3 trillion with a 1.2 percent increase in 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. In Florida, the numbers are even stronger. Export growth has rebounded significantly from $44.8 billion in 2020 to $68.9 billion in 2023 — a 50 percent increase to the highest export level in the past 10 years, according to data from the International Trade Administration.

Nearly 90 percent of EXIM’s overall transactions directly support small businesses. That includes companies doing business in Africa, such as:

• DemeTech Corporation, a Miami-based manufacturer of medical supplies that has exported its products to Egypt.

• Weldy-Lamont Associates, Inc., an Illinois-based engineering firm that has worked with EXIM to provide rural electrification projects in Ghana and Senegal.

• Acrow Corporation of America, a New Jersey-based company that exports steel bridges to Angola.

“EXIM supports American exporters like Acrow with its holistic approach to ensuring overall project success, with a focus on positive stakeholder outcomes through to full implementation, above and beyond the transactional elements,” says Paul Sullivan, Acrow’s President of International Business. n

Jane Lemons is a Business Development Specialist with the Export-Import Bank of the United States.

EXIM PRESIDENT AND CHAIR RETA JO LEWIS

EXIM CHAIR RETA JO LEWIS

The Saint Lucian Presence

Darrel Montrope, the Consul General of Saint Lucia in Miami, began his assignment in November 2022. Before that, he served as Secretary to the Cabinet and the Titular Head of the Saint Lucia Public Service. With more than two decades of experience in leading government policy management, he headed several government agencies and managed portfolios which include Health, Tourism, Labor, and Public Administration.

When was the Consulate General of Saint Lucia established in Miami, and what is its designated mission?

Our mission is to promote and safeguard the interest of Saint Lucia and Saint Lucians within the jurisdiction of the Consulate. That interest includes trade and investment promotion, expansion of educational opportunities and cultural awareness. I must point out that the Consulate covers 14 South-eastern states, inclusive of Georgia and Texas. Given Florida’s strategic location as a gateway to Latin America and an entry to the continental United States and North America, and even more so the growth trajectory of the State and that of Miami Dade in particular, in 1999/2000 my government took a decision to establish a Consulate within the space. Florida, being as much of a melting pot or as cosmopolitan as New York or California, and Miami with its strong Caribbean presence was a logical choice for the location of the Consulate.

What is your plan to improve trade relations between Miami and Saint Lucia?

Central to improving trade relations between Miami and Saint Lucia is the understanding of the regulatory and investment climates between the two jurisdictions. Businesses within the space would like to expand their market and enjoy returns on their investments, and undoubtedly Saint Lucian businesses would like to partner with and or export their products to Miami and the US in general. My plan is for the Consulate to serve as a central conduit facilitating the exchange of understandings and opportunities, providing and or sharing market research to interested entities, and the introductions of those potential partners via the organization of trade missions.

What makes the economic partnership between Saint Lucia and Miami special, and how does the Consulate support Miami businesses looking to expand or invest in St. Lucia?

What makes for the special relationship between Saint Lucia and Miami are the things we have and or appreciate in common. For instance, from an ecological perspective, Miami has a sunny disposition and so too does Saint Lucia. Not only in terms of climate but also in terms of the personalities with whom one engages; they are warm and receptive. Our societies and economies are stable, both

sharing a mutual appreciation for the rule of law, providing for the honoring of agreements. The government is business friendly and has an attractive incentive framework in place, ensuring opportunities for returns on investments.

The Consulate tries to utilize all avenues to share information about investment opportunities in Saint Lucia and facilitate meetings between business interests and policy decision makers.

What are some popular St. Lucian products that residents in Miami might be interested in?

Saint Lucia is famed for its natural beauty and spirit, and during the heights of colonial expansion it came to be known as the Helen of the West Indies. This beauty and spirit are also infused in Saint Lucian products, many of them receiving international acclaim. Whilst I am inclined to suggest that our tourism product is one that Miami residents would be interested in, I shall identify three very popular products that residents can consume right here without having to travel outside of the State. First, for the health-conscious residents seamoss and seamoss products; second, for those who enjoy gastronomy and culinary delights, our sauces and condiments by Baron’s Food will be heaven for most palates; and third, there’s perhaps no better libation than Saint Lucia’s Chairman’s Reserve.

Could you share a fun fact about Saint Lucia that Floridians might not be aware of?

I previously stated that Saint Lucia was referred to as “Helen of the West”. Many people may not be aware, but Saint Lucia is the only country named after a female – St. Lucy – the Patron Saint of Light. Saint Lucia always intends to shine the light serving as a guidepost to and for the world n

HopYachts! From SA to Miami

SOUTH AFRICAN CATAMARAN’S SUCCESSFUL LAUNCH AT THE MIAMI BOAT SHOW

BY MARY-CLARE TOMES

Earlier this year, South Africa quietly emerged as the world’s top producer of luxury catamarans. And the launch of the HopYacht 30 at the recent Miami International Boat Show made quite a splash, despite its whisper-quiet motors.

This all-electric pocket catamaran manufactured in Cape Town, South Africa, was one of the busiest boats on the show, with people lining up to get onboard. HopYacht has been described as “a catamaran that has ripped up the rulebook and come up with a (r)evolutionary concept: for the first time, a combination of comfort and livability has been brought together in an ultra-easy-to-handle boat just 30 feet in length.”

Designed for bay-to-bay and short island hops and fitted with a mast lowering system, the HopYacht 30 is ideally suited for the Great Loop and many other waterways across North America.

With twin electric motors requiring virtually no maintenance and a unique single sail rig, charter yacht operators also saw HopYacht as the answer to reducing downtime and operating costs.

While most catamaran builders are producing increasingly larger yachts, usually accommodating 6-12 berths, the design team at HopYacht has prioritized couples. This often-overlooked market segment can now enjoy an easy to

manage yacht, even for single-handed operation, without sacrificing the luxury features and finishes found in larger catamarans.

The HopYacht concept, created by co-founders Paul and Mary-Clare Tomes, reflects their extensive sailing and chartering background. This is evident in the exceptional quality of life provided in this compact catamaran, highlighted by features like the island queen-size bed!

Visitors at the Miami Boat show were impressed by the clever use of space: “It’s a condo on water”, fully equipped with a very appealing price tag of under $300,000.

The Miami launch proved immensely successful for the HopYacht team, with orders signed at the show and a surge of enquiries spanning from Panama City to Iceland!

Keith McVeigh has been appointed as the HopYacht USA distributor, based in Fort Lauderdale. Keith brings seven years of sales experience with Leopard Catamarans, also built in South Africa, providing him with the firsthand insight into helping clients transition to a simpler sailing lifestyle. HopYacht emerges as the premier choice, addressing this demand for downsizing.

Join the HopYacht Team at the Annapolis Boat show in October, and step aboard the new HopYacht 30. But come early to avoid the crowds we experienced in Miami! n

Africa Pavilion @ the AF&B Show

HOW AFRICAN SMES ARE LEVERAGING THE PLATFORM TO ACCESS THE AMERICAS MARKET

BY KEMI AROSANYIN

The World Trade Center Miami organizes the Americas Food & Beverage (AF&B) Show annually at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Founded in 1997, the show has since grown to become a global market access platform delivering great results to food and beverage companies seeking to enter or expand their footprints in the Americas marketplace.

Recognized as one of the largest Americas focused food and beverage trade shows in the Western Hemisphere, the show recorded its most impressive edition yet in 2023 where it featured more than 700 exhibitors, 16 country pavilions and over 7,300 attendees from 93 countries.

In 2016, “Africa Pavilion” was added to the show to support African exports into the United States and to increase the utilization of African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) - a preferential trade program which has served as the cornerstone of U.S.-Africa relations over the

past two decades.

Since then, the pavilion has become a popular section of the AF&B show featuring 35–40 companies from 8–10 countries every year. Many African countries including Algeria, Angola, Benin, Cameroon, Congo – Brazzaville, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, and Uganda have taken advantage of this great opportunity to enhance visibility for their products in the Americas market, and have gained valuable market exposure to the Caribbean, Latin America, Canada, and Mexico.

The pavilion had a remarkable continental representation at the 2023 show exhibiting great products - Ethiopian coffee with its unique aroma, sugarloaf pineapple from Republic of Benin, organic food products from Ghana and Zena Exotic products from Senegal. The companies were immersed in three days of bilateral meetings, partnerships, conferences, and networking as the show continues to offer

“The show helps Senegalese businesses to connect with buyers, suppliers and distributors in the U.S. as well as Latin America and the Caribbean, thereby enabling us to use one stone to kill multiple birds”

ABDOULAYE

SOW,

THE PRESIDENT OF DAKAR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

excellent market entry pathways for small and medium-sized businesses across Africa.

The Ethiopia Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Associations has played a key role in advancing the goals of the pavilion having attended every edition since the Africa pavilion was created at the show. “Every year, we lead a

large delegation of Ethiopian businesses to Miami for the show because we recognize the commitment of the show organizers in supporting export growth from Africa by providing African exhibitors free access to trade seminars during the show which has deepened our participant’s knowledge of the Americas market” says Wubie Mengistu, the Secretary General of the Chamber.

“Miami, Florida is the best market entry gateway to the Americas market especially for food products from all over the world. We are determined to build global competitiveness for Ghana’s organic food products by leveraging this platform”, says Ambassador Nancy Sam who coordinated Ghana’s first appearance and exhibition at the show last year.

Abdoulaye Sow, the President of Dakar Chamber of Commerce said, “the show is very strategic, it increases the awareness of our products in the market, and it helps Senegalese businesses to connect with buyers, suppliers and distributors in the U.S. as well as Latin America and the Caribbean, thereby enabling us to use one stone to kill multiple birds”.

The operation of the pavilion has not been without challenges. In 2022, the Africa pavilion witnessed its lowest participation since inception due to visa delays and high number of visa rejections. It took the intervention of the Office of Congressman Carlos Gimenez and Congresswoman Maria Salazar before we saw progress in this area.

The 2024 Americas Food & Beverage Show, scheduled for September 16 – 18, is expected to be bigger as the World Trade Center Miami has joined forces with a major Latin American show organizer – Informa Markets, to present a co-located event with Food & Hospitality LATAM. n

DELEGATES OF THE DAKAR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, SENEGAL AT THE AF&B SHOW SEPTEMBER 2023.

Benin Sugarloaf Pineapple

THE FINEST WEST AFRICAN SUGARLOAF PINEAPPLE TOOK THE CENTER STAGE AT THE AF&B SHOW

BY EPIPHANE ADJADJI

Partners for Development (PfD) is an American not-forprofit organization whose employees and volunteers work in partnership with local and international groups to improve the quality of life of vulnerable people in underserved communities.

In Benin, West Africa, for the past several years, PfD has been implementing Pineapple Processing for Export (PINEX), a $15M project funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that seeks to help the country diversify its agriculture by strengthening the pineapple value chain. The key objectives of PINEX are to increase productivity and expand trade of Benin’s fresh pineapple, juice, and other products.

Given its efforts to expand trade, PINEX sponsored travel to Americas Food & Beverage (AF&B) Show in Miami in September 2023 for nine Beninese companies involved in fresh and processed pineapple products. PfD wanted to highlight Benin’s distinctive Sugarloaf pineapple which in 2021 earned the country’s first Geographical Indication (GI) from the World Intellectual Property Organization (“Champagne” is perhaps the most famous GI in the world).

During the three-day trade show, Beninese companies interacted with hundreds of visitors at the PINEX booth. Two Beninese processors and exporters, Fruit d’Or and Les Jus Tillou, coordinated tasting demonstrations alongside seven processors of pineapple juice and dried fruit. Samples of fresh juice and dried Sugarloaf (“Pain de Sucre” in French) enabled attendees to experience its sweetness first-hand. A YouTube live stream allowed virtual visitors to view demonstrations taking place at the PINEX booth. The Brazilian liquor brand Condé do Sul blended its spirits with Beninese juice companies’ Pain de Sucre juice to create distinctive pineapple cocktails.

Beyond promotional tastings, the trade platform offered the delegation important business networking opportunities. Beninese processors studied the presentation and branding of competing products and identified areas to enhance their marketability.

Exporter and processor directors also conducted business

to business (B2B) matchmaking meetings with prospective American buyers interested in importing Beninese Sugarloaf pineapples.

Participants traded contact information to potentially launch future transatlantic Sugarloaf exports directly to the USA.

Sugarloaf pineapple presents a unique opportunity. It has exceptional sweetness and a distinctive appearance. And it is grown by smallholder farmers and processed by small manufacturing companies in Benin who are improving the standard of living of their families by producing, processing, and selling it.

An independent Household Impact Study (HIS) commissioned by PfD and completed by the firm Cosinus Conseil in 2023 concluded that net income for pineapple producers in Benin had increased by 38% over the first seven years of the PINEX project; and net income for processors in Benin had increased by 345% over the same period.

American pineapple importers are looking for innovative ways to get it across the Atlantic Ocean economically and within a narrow shelf-life span, PfD and the Beninese business owners considered the trade mission to Americas Food & Beverage Show an important first step in accessing the valuable Americas market. The Beninese companies that participated in the Americas Food and Beverage Show returned home optimistic that fresh Sugarloaf pineapple and other pineapple products all have potential in the giant U.S. market. n

A VISITOR TASTES BENIN SUGARLOAF PINEAPPLE DURING THE AF&B SHOW.

Proudly African; Truly International CERES

FRUIT JUICES: SQUEEZING SUCCESS IN THE U.S. MARKET

BY ZAC SHEIN

In the competitive landscape of the beverage industry, establishing a new market presence, especially in a country as vast and diverse as the United States, is no small feat. Yet, Ceres Fruit Juices - product of South Africa, a brand synonymous with natural goodness and unparalleled quality, has done just that. With a strategic focus on the U.S. market, particularly Florida, Ceres has not only entered the market but has also flourished, setting a new benchmark for success in the beverage sector.

Florida, often referred to as the Sunshine State, was an ideal starting point for Ceres’s U.S. journey, mirroring the brand’s sunny, vibrant, and natural image. The state’s warm climate, diverse population, and thriving food and beverage scene provided a fertile ground for Ceres’s exotic range of fruit juices. But it wasn’t just about choosing the right location; it was about making a meaningful connection with the community and the local market.

Understanding the importance of local tastes and preferences, Ceres embarked on a series of strategic partnerships with local distributors and retailers, ensuring that its juices were readily available to the Florida market.

Aware that success in a new market requires more than just availability, Ceres invested in educating consumers and

trade partners alike about the unique qualities of its juice range. Participating in local food and beverage expos, these initiatives helped build a loyal customer base intrigued by Ceres’s commitment to natural goodness and exotic flavors, “Perfection in Every Sip”.

Florida’s strategic position as a gateway to both the U.S. and Latin American markets has been instrumental in Ceres’s broader market strategy. By establishing a strong base in Florida, Ceres has been able to leverage the state’s logistics and distribution networks to expand its reach across the U.S. and into neighboring markets, showcasing the brand’s global appeal and adaptability.

As Ceres continues to grow its presence in the U.S., the brand remains committed to its founding principles of natural goodness, quality, and sustainability.

The success of Ceres Fruit Juices in the U.S., particularly in Florida, is a testament to the brand’s strategic market entry, high-quality product offerings, and alignment with consumer values. In the land of opportunity, Ceres has not just entered the market but has thrived, setting a deliciously high standard for natural and exotic beverages, “Perfection in Every Sip”. n

Global Africa

RECLAIMING THE ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL OPPORTUNITIES OF THE CONTINENT AND ITS DIASPORA

BY AFREXIMBANK

For decades, the connection between the African continent and the Caribbean has been characterised by a shared experience. The Middle Passage – and the Atlantic slave trade more broadly – brought Africa to the Caribbean. The consequences of colonialism remain starkly present in the ordinary economic lives of Africans – whether in Montserrat or Kenya. The pervading reality is that of two regions characterised by underdevelopment, an international trade system that consistently denies opportunity, and a global investment community that has, in the past, seen these states as sources of wealth extraction rather than prospective investment destinations.

But so much more than shared suffering, the dark experiences of the old Middle Passage unite a diverse and

growing family of the African diaspora – together, we possess the capacity to author a new era of shared prosperity and economic independence, which acknowledges but refuses to be defined by what has gone before us.

Afreximbank, a pan-African multilateral institution, was founded by a treaty in the wake of the recession that ravaged Africa in the 1980s, with a mandate to promote intraAfrican trade and economic independence for a continent too reliant on commodities for growth.

Afreximbank has acted decisively to leverage the symbolic significance of the African Union’s recognition of the diaspora to pursue an all-Africa-driven social and economic development agenda. Already in 2023, the Bank has launched a US$1.5 billion credit facility enabling member

AFREXIMBANK SIGNS AN AGREEMENT WITH THE BAHAMIAN GOVERNMENT TO HOST THE 31ST AFREXIMBANK ANNUAL MEETINGS (AAM) AND THE THIRD EDITION OF THE AFRICARIBBEAN TRADE AND INVESTMENT FORUM (ACTIF).

states of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to access Afreximbank’s financing instruments in support of economic sectors as diverse as tourism, healthcare, renewable energy, shipping, mining, agriculture and agribusiness, air links and aquaculture. Beyond mere capital, Africa-Caribbean cooperation should encompass intellectual exchange – an investor in tourism in Barbados, for example, can re-deploy this background in similar projects in Tanzania’s coastal areas, just as infrastructure developers in Egypt can share best-practice with peers in the Bahamas.

Moreover, Afreximbank is actively working with governments of the CARICOM to establish a Caribbean Exim Bank as an Afreximbank subsidiary or affiliate – all while honouring commitments to investing

between US$1.5 billion and US$3 billion in the Caribbean, to be disbursed from a regional office opened in the Barbados in August 2023.

These programmes and actions reflect a growing sense, in both Africa and the Caribbean, that the two regions’ challenges are comparable and can be addressed – at least in part – collectively.

An era of closer links between two fraternal regions coincides with a transformative period for intraAfrican trade, as now underpinned in The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), established in 2018 and launched the following year. The free trade area is the world’s largest by member-state composition, counting within its boundaries 54 signatories and 1.3 billion people, and it will – if carefully implemented and maintained – transform Africa’s economic status

quo and reaffirm a sense of continental identity. CARICOM then joins an African community which is pivoting its focus from traditional commercial centres into its own home-grown productive and economic capacity.

Ultimately, Afreximbank’s work with Caribbean states points to a wider possibility, broader than the very real heritage Africans in both places share.

The Global South has traditionally looked north for opportunity and investment, but Afreximbank, alongside other institutions, is determined to forge a new dynamic in which the developing world draws upon its own resources and talent to build truly equitable and sustainable societies: at peace with their histories, and optimistic about their futures. n

Governance and Economic Development Program

HIGH IMPACT PROGRAM FORGING GLOBAL ECONOMIC POSSIBILITIES AND ADVANCING LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE

BY KETSIA FERNANDO & DELFINA STUZYNSKA

The Governance and Economic Development (GED) program is the largest and the most strategic gathering of African political leaders, top government officials, and business executives in Miami. This executive program was launched in 2022 by Center for International Trade Development - Miami in partnership with the University of Miami Herbert Business School and

the World Strategic Forum. After two successful editions, the mission of the program couldn’t be clearer - to advance leadership excellence, promote responsible governance, accelerate economic development, increase mutual prosperity, and strengthen bilateral exchange between the United States and Africa with additional opportunities in Canada, the Caribbean and Latin America.

This program redefines the landscape of Africa’s engagement in the global marketplace. For more than a decade, the International Economic Forum of the Americas (IEFA) has organized the World Strategic Forum annually at the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, Miami. It has grown over the years to become a platform where investors, world leaders, industrialists, philanthropists, and financial

institutions converge to discuss their strategic global development plans.

While Africa’s representation at this major event has been historically unimpressive, the GED program has changed that record. The first two editions brought high-ranking government officials, cabinet members, and legislators from nine countries which include Speaker and members of House of Representatives from Nigeria, Senators from Kenya, members of Parliament from Zanzibar, Tanzania, Consul General, Commissioners, Port Directors, and Heads of Agencies from Angola, Ghana, Namibia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Uganda.

“Thank you so much for what was an amazing program. It was the first time where I really felt that my time had been well spent and the connections made were invaluable. I do believe a lot of this success can be attributed to the work that CITDMiami did in bringing together such a stellar delegation,” says Genevieve Leveille, Principal Founder and CEO, AgriLedger – a U.S. organization with revolutionary solution in the agri-business sector who had bilateral meetings with some of the African participants.

Building on the success of its inaugural year, the 2023 edition of the program expanded its horizons to

include leaders from the private sector to foster cross-sectoral teamwork and to enrich the dialogue. Four days of intensive international collaboration, stakeholders meeting, impactful roundtable, innovative destination marketing, bilateral meetings, investors’ engagement, cocktail reception, and leadership masterclass with distinguished personalities, highprofile speakers, and world-class faculty at the University of Miami. These sessions provided fresh insights into the economics of trade, investment, and tourism while highlighting how the collaboration between Africa, South Florida, and the Caribbean can produce a transformative economic impact.

FROM LEFT: ERIC OLAFSON, PORTMIAMI; ALICE ANCONA, WORLD TRADE CENTER MIAMI; LAURA DIBELLA, FORMER DEPUTY SECRETARY OF COMMERCE OF ENTERPRISE FLORIDA; WOUTER WITVOET, EV TECHNOLOGY GROUP; RT. HON. FEMI GBAJABIAMILA, FORMER SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, CURRENTLY CHIEF OF STAFF TO THE PRESIDENT OF NIGERIA.

“Really glad to have come and taken the time because it takes us to really and truly another level in terms of understanding the opportunities in Africa, in terms of trade and governance. This is definitely an experience I would repeat,” says Fritz Gerald Zephir, President and CEO, JD Euroway – a Canadian corporation with several investment interests across Africa who was a key sponsor of the 2023 program.

The third edition of the program is set to take place from December 9th to 13th in Miami, Florida, and it is poised to deliver a monumental impact in forging intellectual exchange, and enhancing global outreach for public and private sector leaders across Africa - a continent so endowed with great potential but desperately in need of effective policy makers to address the socioeconomic challenges of their communities and to create shared prosperity across the region.

“We are excited about the growing number of reputable institutional partners working with us to revolutionize leadership in Africa through the program. For the 2024 edition, CITD-Miami is joining forces with JD Euroway, and the Financial

& International Business Association (FIBA) – an international banking association whose membership includes the largest financial institutions in Europe, the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean, to power a stakeholders’ meeting on the margins of the World Strategic Forum,” says Kemi Arosanyin, CITD Center Director.

The stakeholders’ meeting will address “The Role of Financial Institutions in Advancing Market Integration between Africa and the Americas”. This presents a unique opportunity to develop transatlantic ecosystem for collaboration, networking, best practices, technical

assistance, training, capacity building, mentorship, and information exchange between African financial institutions, and their counterparts in South Florida and the Caribbean. It also underscores the critical function that financial institutions play in driving economic growth and fostering regional cooperation.

With a great line-up of industry experts, global investors, accomplished speakers and facilitators, GED participants in the next cohort would discover the strategy to actualize their leadership aspirations in government and business, even in the face of the current uncertainties in the global environment. n

IOS Partners: Catalyzing Transformation

MIAMI BASED ORGANIZATION AT THE FOREFRONT OF DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES IN AFRICA

BY TAREK MANDILE & DENITZA BOJINOVA

IOS Partners, a Miami-based economic development advisory firm with a regional office in Nairobi, plays a pivotal role in advancing trade and investment projects across Africa. With experience in over 130 countries, the firm bridges public sector reform and private sector development, focusing on areas like Trade & Investment, Transport, Agriculture and Fisheries, Tourism, and Digital Transformation. The following projects illustrate the impact of the IOS’ work across the African Continent.

In Lesotho, IOS Partners recently led a series of investment promotion activities to identify, attract, and qualify potential foreign and domestic investors into four (4) irrigation schemes that will be constructed and financed under the US Government funded Market Driven Irrigated Horticulture (MDIH) Project. The IOS Partners’ consultancy achieved the goal of attracting investors into the MDIH Project. A total of nineteen (19) Letters of Intent were received from potential Anchor Farmer Investors. Ultimately, the irrigation schemes will offer highly competitive rates for land, water, and power to investors; whose participation in the MDIH Project will in turn contribute to improving the quality and value of agricultural value chains in Lesotho, while empowering small-scale enterprises and the youth, and thus benefiting the economy.

In Djibouti, IOS Partners championed sustainable tourism development, enhancing economic opportunities for women and youth, improving service access, facilitating financing, and fostering competitive value chains, thereby promoting Djibouti as an emerging Red Sea tourism destination.

IOS is currently working with Ethiopia’s Heritage Authority for the preservation and revitalization of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, providing comprehensive technical assistance for its sustainable development.

In Guinea, IOS Partners spearheads the digitalization of government services through an Electronic Secure Transaction Registry, revolutionizing collateral loan transactions and enhancing financial operations’ transparency and accessibility.

IOS Partners was engaged by the African Union Commission for a study to enhance port efficiency and competitiveness and developing strategic recommendations for five key ports: Port of Abidjan; Walvis Bay; Port of Mombasa; Port of Tangier; and Port of Pointe-Noire.

In Kenya, IOS Partners reviewed the feasibility and financial viability of constructing a new terminal at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and implemented a Productivity Improvement Plan for the Port of Mombasa, including stakeholder advocacy and capacity building.

In Mozambique, IOS Partners led a comprehensive feasibility study for an Airport City and an Industrial Zone at Nacala, including developing concept master plans and analyzing economic and financial models, setting the foundation for future development.

In Cape Verde, IOS Partners worked closely with the Civil Aviation Authority, the Ministry of Tourism and Transport, and other relevant stakeholders in the assessment and relevant adjustment of the civil aviation legal framework in view of making it responsive to the present and future challenges of air transport development.

Our diverse teams are fluent in French, English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Arabic, enabling flawless operations throughout Africa. Our diverse skill set enables us to engage effectively with a broad range of stakeholders, navigate cultural intricacies, and drive impactful development initiatives. IOS Partners remains steadfast in its pledge to cultivate inclusive growth and uplift communities across Africa. n

Strengthening Maritime Partnerships

PORTMIAMI & PORT OF MOMBASA CHART A COURSE TOWARDS EXPANDING CRUISE TOURISM

BY DAVE BUCHERE

On December 8th, 2023, Captain William Ruto, the Managing Director of Kenya Ports Authority visited PortMiami to advance mutual collaboration in his quest to grow Port of Mombasa’s cruise portfolio. Captain Ruto was not visiting an unfamiliar territory since the two ports have an existing relationship by way of sister seaport agreement. The visit was an opportunity to renew and strengthen the cooperation between PortMiami and Port of Mombasa.

There’s a natural synergy between the two ports as they both have many things in common - strategic location, capacity, infrastructure, economic impact, and performance. While PortMiami is strategically located at the nexus of the north-south and east-west trade routes, making it the undeniable gateway to the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, the Port of Mombasa also serves as

the primary gateway for trade in the region, connecting landlocked countries of Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, Burundi, and parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo to global markets by serving as a key entry and exit point for cargo belonging to these countries.

PortMiami is one of the fastest growing ports in the United States handling more than 1 million 20-foot equivalent units (TEUs) annually. Port of Mombasa is also the busiest port in East & Central Africa, and it is among the top ten fastest-growing container ports in Africa with record handling of 1.6m cargo container units (TEUs) in 2023, up from 1.45 million in 2022.

In terms of infrastructure development, both ports have demonstrated commitment towards operational efficiency and sustainability. With numerous capital development

projects, PortMiami continues to invest in the construction of new cruise terminals, addition of new neo-Panamax cranes and auxiliary infrastructure projects, such as roadways, rail systems and tunnel, buildings, and garages, to meet the needs of the cargo and cruise industries for the next generation.

Likewise, the Port of Mombasa has undergone capacity expansion and modernization efforts to accommodate growing trade volumes and to improve its efficiency over the years. These efforts include the construction of new terminals, acquisition of modern ship and cargo handling equipment, and increased automation of processes. The port is well-connected to major road and rail networks, making it easier to transport goods to and from various parts of Kenya and its neighboring countries. The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), opened in 2017, connects Mombasa to Nairobi and beyond, and has further enhanced the efficiency of cargo transportation.

As one of the largest economic engines in Miami-Dade County, PortMiami contributes $61 billion annually to the local economy thereby playing a critical role in the current and future economic development of the County and the state of Florida. Similarly, the Port of Mombasa is an economic pillar with significant contribution to Kenya’s economy and the economies of its neighboring countries.

Despite these similarities, there’s one aspect of Port of Mombasa’s business that requires urgent intervention, which prompted the Managing Director’s visit to PortMiami. As testament to his commitment to operational excellence and efficiency, Port of Mombasa has witnessed a positive turn around under Capt. Ruto’s leadership, particularly in its cargo operations. However, a top priority for him is to position the port as a gateway to Kenya’s vibrant tourism industry by expanding its cruise terminal operations.

“Following the construction of a modern cruise terminal

with state-of-the-art equipment to facilitate smooth customs and immigration processing, we are ready to take on this new frontier of cruise tourism to showcase Kenya’s rich cultural heritage, the welcoming hospitality of our communities, and our popular attractions which include wildlife safaris in nearby national parks of Tsavo and Amboseli, Mombasa’s historical sites, and excursions to the coastal towns of Malindi and Lamu,” says Ruto. “As the only Safari Port along the Indian Ocean, our ambition is to become a hub for cruise tourism in Africa”.

“As the only Safari Port along the Indian Ocean, our ambition is to become a hub for cruise tourism in Africa”

CAPTAIN WILLIAM RUTO, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF KENYA PORTS AUTHORITY

With 7.3 million cruise passengers in 2023, PortMiami is the world’s busiest cruise port, holding firmly to the title “Cruise Capital of the World”. Thus, there is no better place in the world to learn best practices in serving the cruise industry other than PortMiami. Thankfully, the leadership team of the port shared their expertise so generously with their Kenyan counterpart during the meeting.

“PortMiami is excited to embark on discussions with Kenya Ports Authority to build a successful partnership, enhance trade pattern, and foster a collaborative exchange of best practices. Together, we can strengthen economic growth, setting new standards in global port operations,” says Hydi Webb, Director and CEO, PortMiami. Certainly, Port of Mombasa has a lot to learn from PortMiami, a global leader in cruise ship calls. n

Forging New Frontiers

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY’S EXPANDING TIES WITH AFRICA

BY SUDESHNA CHATTERJEE

For decades, Miami-Dade County has proactively engaged in expanding trade and commercial ties with Africa. As the gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean, Miami is well positioned as the ideal partner for African countries looking to diversify trade routes and explore new markets.

Miami Dade County is an active member of the Sister Cities’ network, which is a pathway to fostering long-term partnership between international communities. The County’s Sister City relationship with the City of Cape Town in South Africa exemplifies a deep commitment to fostering trade and investment across our regions. The overarching aim of the Sister City relationship is to enhance bilateral relations through economic, educational, cultural, and technological exchanges. This partnership was born out of a recognition of the shared challenges and opportunities that both regions face, including the need for sustainable urban development, economic diversification, and cultural inclusivity.

“Our relationship with Africa is a testament to MiamiDade County’s commitment to fostering global partnerships that drive mutual growth and understanding. As we continue to fortify our bonds, we unlock endless opportunities for economic, cultural, and educational exchange. Together, Miami-Dade and Africa are building a bridge across continents, underscoring the power of collaboration in shaping a prosperous future for all,” says The Honorable Oliver G. Gilbert, III, Chairman, Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners (BCC) & International Trade Consortium (ITC).

The Sister City Agreement, signed in September 2013, has led to a series of initiatives. Key among these is the exchange of best practices in water management and protecting the Bay — an area of critical importance given the increasing environmental challenges posed by climate change. Both Miami-Dade County and Cape Town, as coastal areas, have engaged in collaborative efforts to develop sustainable water use and conservation strategies, ensuring the resilience of their communities and ecosystems. In the area of economic development, we are working with the Office of the Mayor of Cape Town on identifying the ease of doing business parameters, aiming to foster a business-friendly atmosphere conducive to growth and investment.

ITC took an official delegation to Cape Town in February 2023 to participate in the first Africa Summit organized by Sister Cities International. Led by The Honorable Oliver G. Gilbert, III, Chairman, the mission included The Honorable Kevin M. Cabrera, Commissioner, and ITC Vice Chairman, and The Honorable Keon Hardemon, Commissioner and Chairman of the BCC Airport and Economic Development Committee. The County had opportunities to brand the region on numerous occasions and the delegation participated in the Africa Means Business Roundtable, plenary sessions, and networking events at the Summit.

Following that mission, County Commissioner and Vice Chair of the International Trade Consortium Kevin M. Cabrera said: “As Miami-Dade County continues to expand its global footprint, our partnership with Africa remains a key priority. Our ongoing cooperation is a clear demonstration of our obligation to harness opportunities for innovation and sustainability, paving the way for creating prosperous communities.”

Miami-Dade County’s trade relations with Africa is marked by a shared commitment to growth, collaboration, and mutual benefit. Compelled to strengthen these ties, Miami-Dade County and Africa are poised to embark on a new chapter of partnership and prosperity. n

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY DELEGATION AT THE CAPE TOWN CITY HALL.

Empowering Leaders of Tomorrow

HOW EDUCATE TOMORROW IS MEETING THE EDUCATIONAL NEEDS OF COMMUNITIES IN AFRICA

BY BRETT MCNAUGHT

Educate Tomorrow is a non-profit organization based in Miami, Florida. The mission of the organization is to have a positive and enduring impact on those it serves, focused on post-secondary access and success, helping them mature into strong contributing members of their community.

Established in 2003, the organization’s founder Virginia Emmons and CEO, Brett McNaught met in Niger, West Africa as US Peace Corps Volunteers in 2001. In South Florida, Educate Tomorrow is known for providing academic support, economic stability, access to stable and affordable housing, as well as physical and emotional wellbeing for youths in foster care or unstable situations. Through Florida’s tuition waivers program, the non-profit assists young ones to complete high school and transition to college thereby giving them a future and hope.

In Africa, recognizing the critical role of education in addressing poverty, Educate Tomorrow serves in Niger within the West African bloc. Niger is ranked on the Human Development Index as one of the world’s poorest countries with over 10 million people living in extreme poverty. While half of the population in Niger is under the age of 15, about 50% of the children are not enrolled in school.

For the past 21 years, the organization has provided educational programs to a disadvantaged community of Kabey Fo in Niger, a small village located southeast of the

capital, Niamey in West Africa. With a donation of $21,000, Educate Tomorrow established a primary school with four classroom education centers. Currently, the school is host to 6 grade levels serving around 100 students annually. This initiative has increased the literacy level in the community from near zero to almost 100% while it continues to offer vital educational opportunities to students in areas deeply deprived of educational infrastructure.

Demonstrating Florida’s interest in not only boosting bilateral relationship but fostering grassroot development in Africa, Educate Tomorrow also pays for the students’ meals, school supplies, transportation, boarding and other expenses. In addition, the organization has built and stocked a health care facility and trained health care workers to treat the people of the village.

Today, all the facilities built by the organization are not only serving students from Kabey Fo but providing a safe and supportive environment for students from other communities to further their education and increase their opportunities in life.

Educate Tomorrow remains committed to ensuring that children in Kabey Fo have access to the education, nutrition, and health care they need to pursue the highest level of education possible. n

Ghana’s Luxury Lifestyle

LA PALM ROYAL BEACH HOTEL IN ACCRA - GHANA TARGETING AMERICAN TOURISTS

BY AMBASSADOR NANCY SAM

According to St. Augustine “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page”. Last summer, LaPalm Royal Beach Hotel was one of the many key players in the hospitality and travel industry that gathered from all over the globe at the World Travel Expo (WTE) in Miami to showcase their facilities and destinations to the world.

La-Palm Royal Beach Hotel, located in Ghana’s capital city of Accra, is an upscale beachfront facility seated on 30 acres of manicured green lawns and just about five kilometers away from the Kotoka International Airport. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, all 159 rooms in chaletstyle layout with balconies and fabulous ocean or garden views create a charming village ambience offering a haven of comfort and relaxation.

In recent years, Ghana has witnessed an increase in African Americans visiting the West African country, resulting from the two campaigns launched by the government of Ghana known as the “Year of Return,” in 2019 and “Beyond the Return” in 2020 – initiatives which encourage people of African heritage to “return” to Ghana and reconnect with the land of their ancestors. The campaigns have been successful as thousands of African diasporas visit Ghana every year while many have fully relocated and settled there.

The World Travel Expo Miami brings together a wide range of attendees, including travel industry professionals, such as tour operators, travel agents, airlines, hotels, resorts, and destination marketing organizations, who are interested in exploring travel options and learning about new destinations.

Thus, attending and exhibiting at the WTE was a strategic marketing outreach for La-Palm as the expo offered a great opportunity for the hotel to increase visibility in the Americas market and to promote its location as a preferred lodging and travel destination to a huge global audience.

“Overall, the expo was a good outing for us as we had positive conversations with many attendees and potential patrons,” says Anthony Ghansah, General Manager of La Palm Royal Beach Hotel. “While many visitors at the event have visited Ghana in the past and they expressed interest in returning, a small number of people have never heard about the country. Now, they know where we are, and they are excited about visiting Ghana. The U.S. is a prime target market for us to attract patrons to our hotel, and we will continue to deepen our engagements to create better exposure for La Palm and the Golden Beach Hotel brand”.

La-Palm stands out as a premier seaside hotel with a state-of-the-art conference center, banquet facilities and elegant ballrooms for gala dinners, conferences, seminars, meetings, exhibitions, and wedding celebrations. With close proximity to the Central Business District, Embassies, marketplaces, main tourist attractions including Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, the hotel is one of Accra’s principal addresses for entrepreneurs, top government officials, foreign delegations and vacationers. From its array of dining options to its sparkling pool and vibrant shopping mall, every corner of the La-Palm Royal Beach Hotel exudes elegance and sophistication, promising an unforgettable stay for travelers. n

At the 2024 Seatrade Cruise Global, which held recently at the Miami Beach Convention Center, thousands of cruise professionals and stakeholders from across the globe, including the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA), came together to promote their diverse destinations to a global audience.

Seatrade Cruise Global is the world’s largest cruise exhibition and conference. The 2024 edition of the event featured more than 600 exhibitors, over 80 cruise line brands with 2,700 cruise line executives, and more than 120 countries were represented by over 10,000 attendees. This major industry forum is the first choice for cruise line executives as it brings a vibrant ecosystem of cruise professionals under one roof to pursue a common goal.

The Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) leveraged the platform to raise awareness about its newly built modern cruise terminal and the “Vanilla Islands” tourism initiative. Funded by the Mauritius Ports Authority (MPA), the Port Louis cruise terminal offers world-class infrastructure to facilitate the smooth handling of cruise passengers. The port is positioned as the cruise hub of the Indian Ocean attracting luxury expedition cruise lines such as Le Ponan and Silversea. Also, the new port terminal has the capacity to welcome big cruise liners namely Aida and MSC.

Port Louis, the capital city of Mauritius, is rich in history and culture with a diverse range of experiences including

Mauritius At Seatrade

SHOWCASING THE SPLENDOR OF THE INDIAN OCEAN PARADISE

BY KETSIA FERNANDO

beaches, shopping, museums, botanical gardens, local cuisine, landscapes, lagoons, reefs, seafaring escapades and much more to excite cruise tourists. Other popular attractions include Odysseo, the biggest oceanarium of the region, PortLouis market, and the Caudan Waterfront - a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Port-Louis.

Apart from Port Louis cruise terminal, another project that gained international visibility at Seatrade is the “Vanilla Islands” initiative. This major tourism marketing concept is jointly promoted by the islands of Mauritius, Madagascar, Réunion, Comoros, Mayotte, and Seychelles in the Indian Ocean. The goal of the project is to link vacation destinations while pooling resources and expertise together to highlight the islands’ assets. Through this initiative, tourists can visit multiple islands in a single trip. Mauritius is well connected with major hubs in Europe, Dubai, New York, Asia, and Africa. Vacationers from these locations can hop aboard cruise lines to discover the Vanilla Islands.

“The long trip from Mauritius to Miami to attend the Seatrade event was worth it. It gave us an opportunity to connect with the biggest cruise liners in the industry, and we gained insightful information from the content, speakers, and discussions throughout the conference,” says Amrita Craig, representative of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority at the 2024 Seatrade event.

As Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami continues to offer a great exhibition and networking opportunity for the international cruise community, participation from African ports and tourism promotion agencies has been on the rise, signaling Africa’s efforts to increase its share of the global cruise business portfolio which is currently less than one percent. n

FITCE: Elevating Global Cultures

SOUTH FLORIDA’S LARGEST TRADE AND CULTURAL EXPO AMPLIFYING

AFRICAN TRADITIONS

BY PAOLA ISAAC

The Florida International Trade and Cultural Expo (FITCE) is one of the major annual events in South Florida drawing more than 2,000 attendees, exhibitors, international and local businesses, federal, state, and local agencies from over 70 countries. Organized by Broward County, the trade and cultural expo has grown in popularity over the years based on its record of featuring eminent personalities which include current and former presidents, ministers, cultural ambassadors, cabinet members, and industry experts from around the world.

FITCE enhances trade and cultural exchange by providing the tools and resources for those seeking to grow their businesses internationally. The event features many impactful activities such as speed matchmaking with country representatives, American and international buyers panel, world expo marketplace, panel discussions and seminars, as well as networking cocktail reception.

A key segment of the event is “Doing Business with the World” which brings foreign government officials, ambassadors, consuls general, trade commissioners, and bi-national chambers of commerce from many countries to present opportunities in their regions of the world. African representation at this event has witnessed an impressive growth with the participation of high-profile traditional rulers, monarchs, and top government officials showcasing their countries during the “Doing Business in Africa”

segment of the program.

Notable past attendees from Africa include; His Excellency P. Pillay Vyapooray, Former President of Mauritius, The Honorable Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation & Aerospace Development, Nigeria, The Honorable Nana Anim Obiri, Cultural Ambassador for the Promotion of Culture, National Commission on Culture for the Republic of Ghana, The Honorable Elizabeth Naa Kwatsoe Tawiah Sackay, Mayor of Accra, Ghana, Her Royal Highness Clarisse Douala Bell, Queen of Canton Bell, Cameroon, His Royal Highness Nana Semeshia Ohene Asah Krofa II, Traditional Ruler of Ahwerease, Akuapem Traditional Area, Eastern Region, Ghana.

“I am accompanied today by women entrepreneurs who have come to demonstrate the know-how of women and I am excited to present all the business opportunities in Cameroon,” says Queen Larisse Douala Bell of Cameroon.

“We are here to promote Ghana. People should come to Ghana to witness our rich culture and all the beautiful things we have to offer,” says Nana Semeshia Ohene Asah Krofa II (Heir Apparent of Ahwerase-Akuapem).

As FITCE continues to expand South Florida’s position as a nexus for global trade, investment, and culture, the event would remain a viable platform for forging business connections and alliances. n

The Sierra Leone Connection

THE INCREASED U.S. - SIERRA LEONE BILATERAL ENGAGEMENT

BY UYOJO JEREMIAH

The Republic of Sierra Leone established a full diplomatic office in Miami in July 2019 to advance strategic collaboration with Miami Dade County, the state of Florida, as well as the neighboring markets of Latin America and the Caribbean. Thus, the primary responsibility of the Consulate General of the Republic of Sierra Leone in Miami is to protect the interests of Sierra Leoneans in South Florida, promote business opportunities, facilitate investment flow from the United States into Sierra Leone while providing support to Americans who would like to do business in the West African country.

The Sierra Leonean community has been growing steadily in Florida. Currently, it has about 11,000 citizens residing in the state. The largest population of Sierra Leoneans are in the Orlando, Tampa and Jacksonville areas while many also live in South Florida.

As part of the overall strategy to strengthen bilateral relations between the United States and Sierra Leone, the country has proactively stepped up its visibility and public

engagement in the United States under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, who recently delivered the 3rd Annual Distinguished Lecture in African Studies at Perry World House at the University of Pennsylvania. At the well-attended event by members of the academia and the public, the President shared the Sierra Leone experience in describing how progressive politics and inclusive development in Africa can help the continent to navigate the future.

Also, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone has played a prominent role in representing the country at high profile events in U.S. institutions. She recently visited the “Teachers College” in Columbia University, and she was featured as a distinguished guest speaker at the Harvard Center for African Studies during the 2024 International Women’s Day celebration. While this approach takes the nation closer to building stronger bonds with the United States in general, the country’s diplomatic presence in Miami has a specific mandate – to forge commercial ties with Miami Dade County.

3RD FROM LEFT: DR. FATIMA MAADA BIO, FIRST LADY OF THE REPUBLIC OF SIERRA LEONE

“To increase collaboration with Miami Dade County, we are working on establishing sister city relationship between Miami and Freetown, as well as signing a sister seaport agreement between PortMiami and Port of Freetown,” says George Hamilton, Consul General of the Consulate of Sierra Leone in Miami.

“To increase collaboration with Miami Dade County, we are working on establishing sister city relationship between Miami and Freetown, as well as signing a sister seaport agreement between PortMiami and Port of Freetown”

GEORGE HAMILTON, CONSUL GENERAL OF THE CONSULATE OF SIERRA LEONE IN MIAMI

Sierra Leone is rich in natural resources such as diamond, gold, bauxite, aluminum and rutile (Titanium dioxide). It is known as the hidden pearl in West Africa with whitesand beaches, lush rainforests and unique heritage. The capital city of Sierra Leone, Freetown, has one of the world’s largest natural harbors, and these are some of the assets that set Sierra Leone apart from other investment and travel destinations in West Africa. n

LEFT: PRESIDENT JULIUS MAADA BIO, PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SIERRA LEONE

Miami: Africa’s Gateway to the Americas

BY KEMI AROSANYIN & DESMOND ALUFOHAI

Today, Miami enjoys the benefits of market integration with Latin America (LATAM) and the Caribbean at full scale, driving trade, investment, and tourism between the markets to unprecedented levels. The evolution of Miami from a sleepy Southern city into a vibrant hub and epicenter of global trade, finance, and travel is such a fascinating story.

Reaching this destination was not an overnight journey, the development roadmap was clear from inception. The early settlers in the city recognized that Miami is positioned for global outreach to multiple regions of the world including North America, Central and South America, the Caribbean, Europe, and Africa.

Proximity matters, beginning with a focus on the closest markets, a framework for integration and robust connectivity with LATAM and the Caribbean was developed and implemented over decades through various dimensions including immigration, infrastructure, and diplomacy.

Known for its multicultural population, Miami Dade County is home to many nationalities, and it is one of the most diverse counties in the country. The most significant account of how immigration impacted the city is the arrival

of the Cubans in the 1950s and other Latin American immigrants in the ’60s. While other ethnic groups in Miami Dade include Black or African American, White NonHispanic, Asians and other races, about 70 percent of the population identify as Hispanic or Latino and they form the backbone of the city’s international business, cultural and political establishment. The County continues to embrace the cultural diversity that has brought great economic prosperity and propelled Miami to a cosmopolitan gateway city.

Another factor that contributes to the title Miami proudly holds as the “Gateway to the Americas” is cutting-edge infrastructure spanning various modes of transportation. PortMiami and Miami International Airport (MIA) are two major economic engines in Miami Dade County driving connectivity with LATAM. With non-stop flights to 79 destinations in Latin America and the Caribbean, MIA is one of the most powerful forces accelerating market linkages with the region. Likewise, PortMiami’s sophisticated infrastructure underscores its robust cargo operations and strong trade numbers with Latin America and the Caribbean.

JUNE 2022: MIAMI DADE COUNTY TRADE MISSION DELEGATES WITH KENYA PORTS AUTHORITY IN NAIROBI, KENYA.

For decades, Miami has played a key role in fostering diplomatic engagement with LATAM and the Caribbean. Currently, Miami Dade County is home to more than 70 foreign consulates, and over 40 foreign trade offices and binational chambers of commerce, with majority of them from the region. To summarize Miami Dade County’s diplomatic approach towards Latin America and the Caribbean, Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said in a recent statement, “The goal for Miami is to express a deep commitment to the economic success of these regions through extensive trade ties, while also welcoming those who are fleeing political and financial oppression”.

THE MIAMI AFRICA CONNECTION

While it’s undeniable that Miami is the “Gateway to LATAM and the Caribbean”, there’s a compelling argument to be made that Miami’s importance transcends its ties with this region.

“It is crucial to double down on the already-strong cultural and economic relationship between Miami, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Not only does Miami function as a gateway to these regions, but it also serves as a springboard for Europe, Africa, and Asia to gain access to these markets,” says Miami Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.

From a historical perspective, Black people have always been a part of Miami’s history. They were one of the first settlers in Miami and they played a crucial role in the city’s incorporation. When a decision was reached to incorporate Miami as a city in 1896, nearly one-third of the men who signed the incorporation charter for the City of Miami were Black – Bahamian immigrants. Black male registered voters were used to reach the number required by the State of Florida to form the new city since the required number of white male registered voters did not participate.

Beyond the historical dimension, the strategic position of Miami on the global map offers unique proximity to Africa. The distance between Miami and West Africa is only about 4,110 miles, approximately eight hours and thirty minutes on a direct charter flight. To really drive this point home, a farsighted person or someone with a powerful telescope, standing on Miami Beach on a clear afternoon would probably see Africa on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean. Thus, this special advantage holds tremendous promise in bridging the connection between Africa and the Americas market. However, the full potential of Miami’s geographic coordinates has not been capitalized yet as the trade volume between Miami and the continent remains below 2 percent.

“Not only does Miami function as a gateway to these regions, but it also serves as a springboard for Europe, Africa, and Asia to gain access to these markets”

DANIELLA LEVINE CAVA, MIAMI DADE COUNTY MAYOR

Another fresh insight on the potential economic transformation which may result from increased connectivity between Miami and Africa came from the Miami office of a French logistics company, Clasquin. Mr. Emmanuel Desbats, the company’s Vice President of Global Accounts, in another publication had emphasized that Miami is more than LATAM. “Everybody just looks at Miami for Latin America, but Miami is much more than the Americas,” he says.

In a recent conversation with him, he remained resolute on the need for Miami – Africa trade corridor to be developed because Miami is right in front of Africa. While Clasquin is also taking advantage of Miami’s strategic location as the premier gateway to LATAM, he believes Florida businesses focusing only on Latin America are missing a great opportunity.

“Miami is gateway to Africa too. With protectionism growing again across other global markets, Africa remains a safe place to manufacture based on cost of labor and taxes,” says Desbats. “If you don’t know Africa, you can’t see the possibilities in terms of trade and human development. There’s no major language barrier because most Africans either speak English, French or Portuguese, just like in Miami”.

Clasquin has operations in more than 80 countries including 19 offices in Africa with over 420 team members. The global freight forwarding company has been investing in the continent for many years and it continues to experience growth in the market. “Miami is an amazing logistics hub, and it is already connected to LATAM and the Caribbean, this presents a perfect pathway for Africa to gain access to those markets,” says Desbats.

Looking ahead, the mission to increase commercial ties with Africa needs to emulate similar interventions and

infrastructure configuration which has produced shared prosperity between Miami and LATAM. Fortunately, many key stakeholders in Miami Dade County - MIA, PortMiami, International Trade Consortium (ITC), and other economic development agencies – CITD Miami, World Trade Center Miami (WTCM), Consulates and Chambers of Commerce have all demonstrated strong commitment in pursuing this goal.

For more than four decades, Miami-Dade County has sustained multilateral engagements with the African continent. These engagements include, reciprocal trade missions and official visits, international sister cities relationship between Miami-Dade County and the cities of Dakar and Cape Town, sister seaport agreements between PortMiami and 18 African seaports, Miami International Airport’s technical cooperation with some African airports, and Memorandum of Understanding between the Kenyan Tourism Agency and the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau.

“Miami is gateway to Africa too... Miami is an amazing logistics hub, and it is already connected to LATAM and the Caribbean, this presents a perfect pathway for Africa to gain access to those markets”

EMMANUEL

DESBATS, VICE PRESIDENT OF GLOBAL ACCOUNTS AT CLASQUIN

JUNE 2022: MIAMI DADE COUNTY TRADE MISSION DELEGATES WITH OFFICIALS OF THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS IN ABUJA, NIGERIA.

“The African continent continues to be an important market for Miami International Airport, as we continue to seek additional passenger and cargo routes to complement our current service,” says Emir Pineda, Director, Marketing & Air Service Development at MIA.

Other organizations that have made significant contributions towards deepening trade connections with Africa include SelectFlorida which is among the first U.S. states to open a representative office in Africa in the 1990s. It currently has a regional office in Durban, South Africa and a satellite office in Tanzania. Also, World Trade Center Miami (WTCM) created an Africa pavilion at the annual Americas Food and Beverage Show in 2016 to enhance visibility for African food products in the Americas marketplace.

Furthermore, the Center for International Trade Development – Miami convened a stakeholder meeting, on the sidelines of the 2023 World Strategic Forum, to discuss the possibility of establishing a direct maritime route between PortMiami and West Africa. With strong participation from many African ports – Ghana, Senegal, Kenya, Sierra Leone, private investors and many global shipping companies, a roadmap was developed to advance the actualization of this revolutionary project. “PortMiami is not just willing; it recognizes that this initiative is invaluable and a necessity,” says Mr. Eric Olafson, Director of Global Trade and Business Development at PortMiami.

“The African continent continues to be an important market for Miami International Airport, as we continue to seek additional passenger and cargo routes to complement our current service”

EMIR PINEDA, DIRECTOR, MARKETING & AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT AT MIA

These integrated efforts are beginning to produce positive results. Continental air connectivity has been established for both passenger and cargo at Miami International Airport. Royal Air Maroc has expanded its global route network to include direct passenger flights from Casablanca to Miami, and Ethiopian Airlines now operates cargo flights to MIA. In addition, the Republic of Sierra Leone and the Kingdom of Morocco have established full Consular Missions in Miami while the following countries have Honorary Consulates in South Florida: Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, Togo, The Gambia, Mozambique, Namibia, Tunisia, and Uganda.

AUGUST 2023: MIAMI-DADE COUNTY BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MISSION TO FREETOWN, SIERRA LEONE. FRONT ROW R-L: COUNTY COMMISSIONER KIONNE MCGHEE, COUNTY COMMISSIONER MARLEINE BASTIEN, MAYOR ALIX DESULME, CITY OF NORTH MIAMI.

As Lao Tzu wisely stated, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”. Certainly, there’s a long road ahead for Miami to achieve the same level of connectivity with Africa as it currently does with LATAM and the Caribbean, but the momentum is already building. Miami is ready and open for business with Africa, all the necessary institutional support from the U.S. government, the County and other stakeholders are in place.

Africa needs to look no further than Miami for its global access to the Americas. This endeavor is certain to produce economic prosperity for this generation and the next. n

“PortMiami is not just willing; it recognizes that this initiative is invaluable and a necessity”

MR. ERIC OLAFSON, DIRECTOR OF GLOBAL TRADE AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AT PORTMIAMI

WHY MIAMI?

THE PERSPECTIVE OF ROYAL AIR MAROC CEO

ABDELHAMID ADDOU

Mr. Abdelhamid Addou is the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of Royal Air Maroc. Based in Casablanca, Royal Air Maroc (RAM) is the flag carrier of Morocco and majority government owned. Mr. Addou is a member of the Board of Governors of the International Air Transport Association. He previously headed Diana Holding and the Moroccan National Tourist Office. RAM operates an extensive domestic and regional network within Morocco and Africa together with services to Europe, the Middle East, and North America.

Tell us briefly about the history, mission, and vision of Royal Air Maroc.

Founded in 1957, Royal Air Maroc is the national airline of the kingdom of Morocco and plays a major role as the flagship carrier of the country. Royal Air Maroc became a member of the One World alliance as the 14th member in April 2020.

In June 2023, the Airline announced an important development plan with the goal of expanding its fleet by

adding 200 aircrafts over the next decade, aiming to meet the increasing demand driven by the 2030 FIFA World Cup and strengthen its presence in the growing international market.

When did the airline launch Casablanca – Miami route and what factors were considered in choosing Miami as a hub for your U.S. operation?

Royal Air Maroc launched the Casablanca-Miami route on April 3, 2019, marking the first non-stop flight

linking Florida with the African continent in under nine hours. Miami’s strategic location has made it an ideal hub, enhancing connections between Africa, Europe, and the Americas.

Miami serves as a dynamic platform for expanding Royal Air Maroc’s commercial operations across three key customer segments: tourism to Morocco, travel by the Moroccan and African diasporas (Visiting Friends and Relatives), and business travel.

Moreover, the city acts as a major gateway for travel to and from South America, the Caribbean, and Central America. Its strong economic ties with these regions make it a prime destination for both business and leisure travel. Also, Miami International Airport’s role as a significant cargo hub complements our objectives to broaden cargo operations across these continents.

The convergence of these commercial factors and business opportunities underscores Miami’s strategic value as a hub, affording us a distinct competitive advantage in the market. Since the Casablanca – Miami route was launched, how has the response been?

Since its launch, the development of the route has followed the path we laid out in our business plan. Of course, the pandemic did cause a significant disruption, leading to a year-long suspension. Nevertheless, since we resumed operations in May 2022, the route’s key performance indicators have shown positive trends.

Royal Air Maroc now plays a key role in connecting Africa with the Americas market, what do you see as the future potential of this route?

It is evident that this route has substantial potential. Our domestic network in Morocco, along with regions in Africa, Southern Europe, and the Middle East, are pivotal to our strategy for this route.

The route’s success and ramp-up hinges on several key factors, including increasing our service capacity to Miami, continuous expansion of RAM’s international network, our robust presence within the trade network, and enhancing the awareness of the Royal Air Maroc brand.

Regarding network expansion, the recent launches of three new destinations—Abuja, Naples, and Manchester— underscore our ambitious strategy to enrich connectivity within our network, providing strategic routes like Miami

Regarding network expansion, the recent launches of three new destinations—Abuja, Naples, and Manchester—underscore our ambitious strategy to enrich connectivity within our network

with further momentum for commercial growth. Other than Miami, which other U.S. destinations does Royal Air Maroc operate flights to?

Apart from Miami, we offer direct services to Casablanca departing from New York’s JFK Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport. In the United States, our network is enhanced through strategic code-share partnerships with American Airlines, a key ally in the One World alliance, and JetBlue.

These partnerships significantly expand our domestic coverage, ensuring strong access across the USA. n

As we look towards the future, Florida remains a strategic location that connects the vast markets of the Americas with the emerging economies of Africa. As more African countries embrace innovation and entrepreneurship, the continent is ripe with potential for growth and development. By leveraging Florida’s unique position, businesses can access new markets and tap into a broad range of resources and expertise.

This is a momentous period in history, as Africa has rightfully taken its place on the world stage. During my visit to Ghana last year with Vice President Kamala Harris and my recent trip to Rwanda, I had the privilege to observe firsthand the ingenuity and entrepreneurial drive of the African people.

This spirit is reflected in the economic projections for Africa:

• Africa’s population is expected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050 and 40% of the global population by 2100, leading to a $29 trillion economy.

• By 2035, Africa’s GDP is set to increase by $450 billion.

• By 2050, Africa’s combined consumer and business spending will exceed $16.12 trillion.

These numbers only reflect human potential and do not account for Africa’s vast natural resources. Africa holds 62 percent of the world’s arable land and over 40 percent of the critical minerals required for our Net Zero energy objectives. The United States needs to strengthen partnerships with African nations to significantly impact the global economy. Renewing the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) for the next decade is crucial for continuous trade and investment.

The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) alone is insufficient to address the current geopolitical climate. Instead, the United States must adopt a more comprehensive approach towards Africa, emphasizing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and encouraging greater engagement with the African Diaspora. The AfCFTA Agreement creates the world’s largest single market, impacting intra-African and global trade and transforming the African economy and the international trade landscape.

In recognition of this, I introduced H.R. 8249, the U.S.Africa Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership Act of 2024 (ASTIP), to support the implementation of the

AfCFTA. ASTIP creates a mutually beneficial partnership framework that will stimulate prosperity, create long-lasting jobs on both continents and, more importantly, help lift 30 million Africans out of extreme poverty. The recent developments in U.S.-Africa relations signify the beginning of a new era.

The U.S. administration has been working to strengthen the African diaspora’s role. President Biden’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement (PAC-ADE) has been established, and the US EXIM Bank and Africa Export-Import Bank have committed $500 million to enhance commercial engagement with Africa.

President

Biden’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement (PACADE) has been established, and the US EXIM Bank and Africa Export-Import Bank have committed $500 million to enhance commercial engagement with Africa.

Expanding the scope of engagement to include the Caribbean diaspora is imperative. Notably, my home state, Florida, has a large Caribbean community. Florida is the closest U.S. state to Africa and has the infrastructure required to support trade, investment, travel, and tourism. It is incumbent upon us to capitalize on this opportunity and maximize the potential for growth and development.

As a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, the Congressional Black Caucus, and the Haiti Caucus, I am committed to continuing to engage in efforts to facilitate economic development, trade, investment, and tourism between the U.S., the continent of Africa, and the Caribbean, and to build stronger cultural and economic diplomacy. n

Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick is the first Black woman to represent Florida’s 20th congressional district. She is the Chair of the Diversity & Inclusion Task Force for the Democratic Women’s Caucus, a Co-Chair of the Haiti Caucus, and serves as a member of the Congressional Black Caucus.

NAMIBIA SPECIAL COUNTRY FOCUS

NamibiaThe Land of Endless Horizons

HOW THE COUNTRY IS DRIVING SUSTAINABLE INVESTMENTS

BY CATHERINE SHIPUSHU

Namibia, renowned for its captivating landscapes, has evolved into sub-Saharan Africa’s leading investment prospect. A fast-growing, peaceful, and prosperous investment destination, blessed with an abundance of natural resources and a deep commitment to good governance. Namibia’s stable political environment has helped to support economic growth and social advancement, offering businesses and investors a fertile ground for profitable ventures.

Positioning herself as a lucrative investment destination, Namibia offers investors unique and attractive opportunities. With a deliberate commitment to sustainable development, the country has made significant strides in diversifying its economy beyond traditional sectors such as mining and agriculture. The growth of industries like tourism, manufacturing, renewable energy and global business services has created new investment opportunities with untapped potential for growth and long-term profitability.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Recent oil and gas discoveries onshore, in the Kavango East region and offshore, in the Orange Basin have put Namibia in the spotlight, positioning the country as a potential exploration hotspot. On the other hand, great strides have been made in the renewable energy space with several large-scale projects currently in operation or under construction.

As the demand for sustainable energy intensifies, Namibia is well-positioned to leverage her unparalleled natural endowments - solar, wind resources, vast open spaces and long coastline capacity to produce Green Hydrogen at highly competitive rates. Namibia is therefore in prime position to attain her bold aspirations of becoming a renewable energy capital for Africa hub, and potentially an international green hydrogen exporter within the next 10 years.

With projected large quantities of ammonia as the biproduct of Green Hydrogen from projects such as Daures Green Hydrogen village and Cleanergy, the horticulture industry holds immense potential as Namibia currently

exports high value fruits to key markets such the United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and European Union.

Nestled in the heart of Southern Africa, Namibia is a natural beauty, characterised by endless horizons and picturesque landscapes, diverse culture, and rich wildlife. From the sand dunes plunging down to the Atlantic Ocean at Sandwich Harbour, the second largest canyon in the world, Fish River Canyon to unforgettable stargazing experiences in the NamibRand Nature Reserve which is the first African location to obtain the DarkSky certification. It is therefore no wonder that Tourism is amongst the top five priority sectors for investments in Namibia, with opportunities available in luxury accommodation, cruise tourism, boutique tourism and film tourism. These opportunities are cemented by the new and deliberate positioning of Namibia as an emerging Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) destination.

SUSTAINING A CONDUCIVE INVESTMENT ENVIRONMENT

From an investment attraction perspective, the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) remains committed to collaborating with relevant public and private sector stakeholders to ensure Namibia sustains a conducive investment environment, underpinned by progressive policy frameworks and predictable structures and processes.

In our quest to ensure that Namibia remains an attractive investment destination, we are deliberate in eliminating constraints that impact the ease of doing business in the country, from advocating for policy reforms to establishing an Investor One Stop Centre.

A pivotal milestone in our journey so far as an Investment Promotion Agency (IPA) is the Investor One Stop Centre which serves as a physical single point of access to information and facilitation services for investors. Essentially, with direct access to a host of business-related services in a single location, investors no longer need to navigate through complex administrative processes to do business in Namibia. n

MOMBASA SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE (MSEZ)

Project Description

Mombasa Special Economic Zone (MSEZ) is a national priority project under Kenya’s Vision 2030. Regulated by the 2015 Special Economic Zone Act, the project spans 1,700 acres and its goal is to create jobs by integrating port facilities, free trade zones, industrial parks, and residential areas.

Project Information

Project Promoter:

Kenya Ports Authority

Sector:

Transport and Logistics

Subsector: Port Infrastructure Development

Country of Deal: Kenya

Financial Performance

Market Opportunity

The Mombasa Special Economic Zone (MSEZ) holds significant potential due to its proximity to the Port of Mombasa, which serves as a principal international seaport for Kenya, East Africa, and Central Africa. This strategic location creates ample opportunities for establishing portrelated logistics centers and manufacturing facilities.

Investment Opportunity

The project presents a $300 million investment opportunity for private investors. With the government seeking partners to develop infrastructure and operationalize this master plan, investors can capitalize on fiscal incentives for lucrative returns in logistics and manufacturing.

Latest annual revenue size (USS): >1 million | Profitability (Le., EBITDA +ve or -ve): N/A

Financing Overview

Fundraising Amount (US$): 300,000,000

Deal type: Investment

Financing Type: Public Private Partnership

Available investor material: Feasibility study and Pitch deck

AIBD SOLAR POWER PROJECT

Project Description

Construction of a 6 MW solar power plant for energy supply at the Blaise Diagne International Airport and it’s environ. The installation of a solar power plant will ensure the airport achieves carbon neutrality and energy autonomy by 2035.

Project Information

Project Promoter:

Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIBD)

Market Opportunity

Sector: Aviation/Energy

Subsector: Solar Power Generation

Country of Deal: Senegal

Financial Performance

Amidst a rising need for airports to minimize their environmental impact, the Solar Power Plant project emerges as an attractive investment opportunity in renewable energy infrastructure. Stakeholders can support sustainable aviation solutions by financing this initiative, while also gaining returns from reduced energy costs and increased revenue generation.

Investment Opportunity

The project offers a $5 million investment prospect for interested stakeholders. The airport is proposing this as a Public-Private Partnership project to be undertaken with other stakeholders such as LAS (Limak – AIBD SASumma), SUMMA, and Senegal Ministry of Air Transport and Airport Infrastructure (MTADIA).

Latest annual revenue size (USS): >1 million | Profitability (Le., EBITDA +ve or -ve): N/A

Financing Overview

Fundraising Amount (US$): 5,000,000

Deal type: Investment

Financing Type: Public Private Partnership (PPP)

Available investor material: Feasibility study and Pitch deck

REGIONAL AIRPORTS

RECONSTRUCTION PROGRAM (PRAS)

Project Description

The Regional Airports Reconstruction Program (PRAS) is a development project involving 13 local airports. The primary objective is to enhance essential airport infrastructure, which includes the construction of new runways, taxiways, parking areas, control towers, terminal buildings, SSLI hangars, and ground handling services.

Project Information

Project Promoter:

Blaise Diagne International Airport

Sector: Aviation

Subsector: Airport Infrastructure Development

Country of Deal: Senegal

Market Opportunity

By modernizing Blaise Diagne International Airport and 13 regional airports with cutting-edge navigation systems, this infrastructure project will position Senegal as a strategic aviation hub for West Africa. The upgrade will boost economic opportunities through increased passenger and cargo traffic, growth in revenue for airlines and airport operators as well as expanded commercial activities for all stakeholders.

Investment Opportunity

The investment deal size is $50 million (USD) which involves renovating runways, constructing terminals, and developing commercial areas.

Financial Performance

Latest annual revenue size (USS): >1 million | Profitability (Le., EBITDA +ve or -ve): N/A

Financing Overview

Fundraising Amount (US$): 50,000,000

Deal type: Investment

Financing Type: Public Private Partnership

Available investor material: Feasibility study and Pitch deck

THE PRESIDENT’S LINKS GOLF ESTATE

Project Description

The President’s Links Golf Estate is an upscale residential development based on a residency-by-investment model, featuring a retirement resort and golf course as part of its initial phase. It is located on a 148-hectare property in Walvis Bay, Namibia, the project aims to create 1200 full-time and 50 part-time jobs.

Project Information

Project Promoter:

Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB)

Sector:

Real Estate & Hospitality

Subsector:

Luxury Resort Development

Country of Deal: Namibia

Market Opportunity

The Namibian government is proactively inviting foreign investment to stimulate the nation’s economic expansion and diversification. This initiative includes tax incentives, financial support, and a streamlined one-stop service for international corporations and investors seeking to establish their presence and expand their operations in Africa.

Investment Opportunity

For a minimum real estate investment of USD 316,000, successful investors become eligible for a five-year, renewable work permit. This permit grants them the privilege to reside, conduct business, and pursue educational aspirations in Namibia.

Financial Performance

Latest annual revenue size (USS): >1 million | Profitability (Le., EBITDA +ve or -ve): N/A

Financing Overview

Fundraising Amount (US$): 55,000,000

Deal type: Investment

Financing Type: Debt and Equity

Available investor material: Business plan and Pitch deck

ANKARA MIAMI

REDEFINING AFRICAN FASHION AND CULTURE IN SOUTH FLORIDA AND BEYOND

BY EVELYN ONYEJURUWA

Ankara Miami, a beacon of cultural fusion and expression, stands at the forefront of promoting African fashion and culture in South Florida. Since its inception in 2011 by Evelyn Onyejuruwa, former Miss Nigeria Florida, the trendsetting brand fervently championed the inclusion of African fashion and culture in the local market and mainstream media.

With a vision to celebrate the richness and progression of African culture, Ankara Miami embarked on a mission to showcase the diversity and vibrancy of African prints and fabric through wide-spread promotion and a variety of special events, including pop-up shops and high-end fashion productions such as Ankara Miami Fashion Week and Ankara SWIM. With Miami as its vibrant backdrop,

Ankara Miami became a vital conduit, connecting the diaspora to its roots and introducing the wider audience to the diversity of African fashion.

At the heart of Ankara Miami’s pop-ups and fashion productions are its designers, whose talent and creativity breathe life into each garment or hand-crafted accessory. Through meticulous attention to detail and a deep reverence for tradition, these designers infuse contemporary flair into age-old techniques, crafting pieces that resonate with elegance and authenticity.

One such designer is JZO, a Nigerian-based brand whose creative approach to African fashion has garnered acclaim on both sides of the Atlantic. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of African heritage, JZO creates unique garments

FOUNDER, EVELYN ONYEJURUWA (GOLD DRESS) WITH FEATURE DESIGNERS - ANKARA MIAMI 2016

that serve as a testament to the enduring allure of African aesthetics, captivating audiences with their innovative appeal.

Another shining example is Jean Decort, whose journey from the bustling streets of Panama to the Ankara Miami Fashion Week stage exemplifies the company’s commitment to amplifying talent rooted in African culture – no matter the physical location. With an affinity for bold colors and hand-painted graphic designs, Jean Decort seamlessly blends cultural motifs with modern silhouettes, offering a fun and purposeful narrative that transcends borders.

Since its inception, Ankara Miami has not only provided a platform for the exquisite craftsmanship of African designers but has also fostered collaborations and partnerships with local municipalities & nationally recognized brands such as Macy’s and Black Enterprise. Additionally, through initiatives such as Ankara Delights Pop-Up Shop - a quarterly retail shopping event aimed at showcasing and encouraging emerging talent, South Florida-based consumers are also able to easily shop authentic hand-crafted fashion and goods direct from the continent.

As Ankara Miami continues to redefine the narrative surrounding African fashion and culture in South Florida and beyond, its impact extends far beyond the realm of style. By celebrating Africa’s rich cultural heritage and fostering cross-cultural exchange, Ankara Miami serves as a bridge, uniting communities and creating a deeper appreciation for the diversity that enriches our world. n

DESIGNER JEAN DECORT DURING ANKARA MIAMI FASHION WEEK 2018

BRIDGING CULTURAL DIVIDES

CELEBRATION OF LOVE BETWEEN THE NIGERIAN AND VENEZUELAN COMMUNITY IN MIAMI

BY MARIA & LUIZ

In a vibrant city like Miami, where cultures intertwine and diversity thrives, our wedding was a true reflection of the rich tapestry of heritage that defines us. As a Nigerian, Venezuelan and Brazilian American couple, we wanted our wedding to be a celebration of love that embraced and honored our Latin American, African, and American roots. The wonder unfolded over two unforgettable days on December 2 & 3, 2023, where our love story took center stage amidst a backdrop of cultural fusion. From the moment our guests arrived, they were immersed in a world

where traditional Nigerian, Latin American, and American elements intertwined seamlessly.

Our wedding was a beautiful blend of traditions, on the first day of ceremony, with the chosen vibrant green and gold color theme fully displayed throughout both days. Bride and groom wore the Yoruba Aso Ebi styles matching the venue color scheme with the bridal party and immediate family dressed in a stunning blend of traditional wear using all colors of the spectrum.

L-R: MR. CALVIN LAM AND MRS. LOIS LAM, LUIZ AND MARIA, PASTOR BODE ADEYEFA AND MRS. LOLA ADEYEFA.

On the second day, the white wedding took place. Where festivities continued into the night with a reception that was a feast for the senses. Guests indulged in a culinary journey, focusing on the flavors of Latin America and American cuisine. The dance floor was alive with energy as guests danced to a mix of rhythmic Afrobeats and Latin music showcasing the universal language of music.

Our wedding was more than just a celebration of love; it was a testament to the beauty of diversity and the power

of unity. It was a reminder that love knows no boundaries and that when we come together, we create something truly magical.

As we look back on our wedding day, we are filled with gratitude for the love and support of our family and friends who traveled from near and far to be with us. Our wedding was not just a union of two individuals; it was a celebration of the rich tapestry of cultures that make us who we are. n

CONTEMPORARY ART

HOW AFRICAN ARTISTS ARE BREAKING THROUGH THE GLOBAL STAGE

BY CYRUS BLOT

CADA (Contemporary African Diaspora Art), a multimedia platform based in Miami, champions the visual art culture of the African Diaspora. As one of the world’s foremost Art Advisory, Creative Industry Development, and Art Brokerage firms, CADA operates under the leadership of Ludlow Bailey. Known for its engaging offerings such as art panel discussions, lectures, exhibitions, seminars, videos, and films, CADA has become a beacon in the art world.

Ludlow Bailey, with his profound connection to the art community, aids individuals and institutions in curating significant black art collections. His expertise extends to wealth and investment planning in contemporary Black Art. Bailey played a pivotal role as the lead curatorial consultant for the Art of Black Platform, initiated by the Greater Miami Convention Bureau. His influence also reaches into creative industry development projects across St. Lucia, the United States Virgin Islands, and Nigeria.

LUDLOW BAILEY

CADA is renowned for hosting premier black art talk events at Art Basel Miami Beach, the largest commercial art fair globally. These events take place during the first week of December each year. The 2023 event at the Art Deco Museum featured the art exhibition “Black Euphoria,” showcasing works from artists across the African diaspora, including Nigeria’s Ibe Ananaba and Prince Adetomiwa Gbadebo, Jamaican-Haitian artist Mark Delmont, and Ghanaian artist Theophilus Tetteh, among others.

Bailey moderated two insightful panel discussions at the event. Topics included the global Black art market, Black Fashion as art, the Global African Diaspora Renaissance Movement, and highlighting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) art collections from institutions like Florida Memorial University, University of Virgin Islands, and Spelman College.

CADA offers access to an impressive assortment of blue-chip black art, featuring pieces by luminaries such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Manuel Mendive, Wifredo Lam, and Purvis Young. Currently, Bailey is the lead curatorial consultant on an exhibition in London titled “Continued Legacy,” focusing on Nigerian artists Oliver and Ben Enwonwu.

Additionally, the “Symbols of Spirit” exhibition is being hosted at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center. Running through December 2024, this exhibition features the African collection from The Paul and Mary Rosen Collections of Central and West Africa.

This dynamic engagement with the African Diaspora’s art not only enriches the cultural landscape but also fosters a deeper appreciation and understanding of Black art’s significance globally. n

EBONY, 2023 BY OLIVER ENWONWU, OIL ON CANVAS 99 X 98CM. ALI, FROM THE WANDERER SERIES, 2020 BY OLIVE ENWONWU OIL ON CANVAS 77 X 59CM

MIAMI: AN AFROBEATS HUB

TRACING THE BEAT FROM FELA KUTI TO AFRO NATION

BY UYOJO JEREMIAH

Sun drenched beaches, breezy weather and the arts-cape of Miami gives a captivating atmosphere. Imagine this background with beautiful ladies and dashing men at the 40,000 capacity Loan Depot Park for an electrifying Afrobeats concert. When top performers like Burna Boy, Wizkid, Rema, Fireboy DML, Shenseea, Beenie Man, Sech, BNXN, Franglish, and Gyakie share a stage, the least you can expect is a city on fire.

This electrifying line up provides a glimpse of the Miami edition of Afro Nation for mainland North America which created a fusion of music, culture, and celebration that Africa is known for.

Miami’s choice as the host city for the 2023 Afro Nation was inevitable when you consider the strong link between Africa and Miami. The vibrant entertainment and hospitality industries in Miami backed by commerce, culture, arts, and

BURNA BOY

international trade make Miami a destination of choice for African artists. As the largest urban economy in Florida, Miami provides the perfect backdrop for Afro Nation, aligning with its class of showcasing the best of African music and culture on a global stage.

Pioneered in the 60s by the legendary musician and political activist Fela Kuti, Afrobeats has emerged as a significant musical genre with far-reaching impacts on the world. Its growing popularity has led to a surge in demand for African music festivals, concerts, and events, contributing to the economic growth of local communities.

The success of Afrobeats in Miami’s music scene is an incredible example of an age long cultural exchange that has contributed to the growth of Afrobeats globally. Miami is not just a base for top African artists, it is a grooming center.

Far back in 1983 when Nigeria’s King Sunny Ade first visited America, transporting his Juju music with a lilting and rhythmic traditional African sound to the USA, Americans were jamming at concert halls across the country to hear him and his Nigerian band play. The inviting pulse of the music immediately brought the audience to the large dance floor (a requisite for a King Sunny concert).

As his 22-city concert swing through North America, he gained royalty status in the U.S. and the tour included a concert in Miami, Florida on March 6, 1983.

In November 2007, Youssou N’Dour and the Super Etoile of Dakar, Senegal performed at the Gusman Theater in Miami, promoting their new release, Rokku Mi Rokka. Angelique Kidjo, one of Africa’s most successful international performers, graced the stage at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Miami in March 2010, with her unique soul and lyrical style.

The Miami New Year Carnival at the Biscayne Bay Amphitheater in 2022 featured South African Grammy Award winner Nomcebo Zikole performing her worldrenowned song “Jerusalema.”

Miami has earned a well-deserved place in the annals of history for its significant contribution to promoting Afrobeats music globally, maybe second only to Lagos. The city’s passion for Afrobeats has created a unique and dynamic music culture that is worthy of recognition and admiration. To keen observers, this is the beginning of the rise and the rise of African music in Miami. n

A TASTE OF AFRICA

DISCOVER THE RICHNESS OF AFRICAN CUISINE IN SOUTH FLORIDA

BY KETSIA FERNANDO

Decades ago, the availability of African cuisine in cosmopolitan cities like Miami was limited. However, the stats have evolved significantly. Today, Miami has transformed into a home away from home for many Africans, and the demand for African dining experiences is on the rise, not just in Miami but across Florida and beyond.

Miami holds a global reputation as the “2023 Food City of the Year” according to Bon Appétit. It is also one of the hottest dining scenes in America. The presence of African cuisine adds a different dimension to Florida’s culinary allure. This expansion of African dining options not only enhances Miami’s gastronomic diversity but also underscores the city’s status as a dynamic melting pot, celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and lifestyles that define its global identity.

For African food lovers or those eager to explore its flavors, Miami has a range of must-visit hotspots where you can savor the richness of African cuisine.

Awash Ethiopian Restaurant: Located in the city of Miami Gardens, this restaurant encompasses a traditional Ethiopian “Gojo bait” (country-style home) environment and a welcoming atmosphere featuring a shop with rare Ethiopian spices, coffee, and tea, alongside a decorative bar featuring imported Ethiopian beer and wine, Ethiopian art, traditional music, and a coffee ceremony.

Sheri Restaurant: Transporting Nigerian home cooking to America, Sheri Restaurant offers handcrafted dishes made from scratch with fresh and natural ingredients. Located in the city of Miami Gardens, the restaurant offers flavorful dishes spiced according to customers’ preferences, from mild to super spicy.

Jollof Pot Restaurant: This restaurant specializes in Jollof rice, the culinary highlight of Nigerian cuisine. It offers gourmet African food and catering for any event or occasion, with all dishes made using fresh vegetables and fruits from local markets. It is located in Red Road, Miramar, Broward County, Florida.

Sankofa Kitchen International: Based in the South Florida area, Sankofa Kitchen International specializes in food inspired by West African Ghanaian cuisine. The name “Sankofa” is a Twi or Akan word originating from Ghana, meaning “go back and get it”. It is located on Hiatus Road, Sunrise, Broward, Florida.

Rejoice African Restaurant: Specializing in spicy modern and traditional African food, Rejoice African Restaurant offers a full West African cuisine for both dine-in and takeout, catering for big events, and private parties. It is in Northwest Sunrise, Broward County, Florida. n

MIAMI HEAT: DIASPORA CONNECTION BASKETBALL, AN AMERICAN

LEGACY, ENHANCED BY AFRICAN PLAYERS

BY DELFINA STUZYNSKA

Basketball enjoys widespread popularity around the world just like soccer. It attracts a diverse pool of talents, uniting people from different cultures and backgrounds while creating passionate fan bases for both clubs and individual players.

In the United States, the National Basketball Association (NBA) is considered one of the top three sports leagues, and its global recognition has been growing, largely due to its recruitment of players from around the world.

According to the NBA, a record 125 international players from 40 countries and territories were on opening-

night rosters for the 2023-24 season. This marks the third consecutive season that opening-night rosters featured at least 120 international players and the 10th straight season that opening-night rosters had at least 100 international players. All 30 NBA teams feature at least one international player.

The African diaspora community and people of African descent have made significant impact on the NBA over the years. As stated by the Association, there were 15 players from Africa on the opening-night rosters while 35 players had at least one parent from an African country.

BAM ADEBAYO

Starting with Hakeem Olajuwon, a native of Nigeria, and Dikembe Mutombo from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) - they both played in the NBA in the ‘80s and ‘90s, had outstanding records, and they popularized basketball across Africa.

Most notably, “Hakeem the Dream” left indelible footprints on the game. He was named the Most Outstanding Player in 1983, Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 1994 and 1995, was selected to NBA All Star games twelve times, and held the NBA record for blocked shots (3,830). With 26,946 points and 13,748 rebounds during his career, he was formally enshrined into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2008.

The Miami Heat Basketball team has had its own fair share of recruiting African players, particularly from Nigeria, with Precious Achiuwa, Bam Adebayo, Andre Iguodala, K. Z. Okpala, Victor Oladipo, and Gabe Vincent, all having one or both parents originally from Nigeria, thereby making Miami a hub for grooming African talents in basketball and creating a strong tie with the continent.

Like Hakeem Olajuwon and Dikembe Mutombo, these young talents currently playing in the NBA are striving to make their own lasting impressions and to build a legacy for themselves.

Bam Adebayo, since his selection by Miami Heat in the 2017 NBA draft, he has earned three NBA All-Star selections, recognized four times on the NBA All-Defensive Second Team and played a key role in Heat’s NBA Finals appearances in 2020 and 2023. Additionally, he secured a gold medal with the 2020 U.S. Olympic team in Tokyo.

Luckily, some of these players have not lost touch with their roots as they often find ways to connect with their heritage and give back to the community that raised them. Bam Adebayo recently demonstrated his affection for Africa by imparting skills, strategies, and sharing valuable life lessons with 80 most talented high school basketball players across Africa who convened in Johannesburg, South Africa for Basketball Without Border Games.

According to Adebayo in an interview with ESPN, “For me, it was really about helping these kids in South Africa. Getting to connect through heritage, tribe or whatever it may be, and getting to help these kids is the biggest thing for me.” n

CITD-MIAMI PROGRAMS

Africa Trade Expansion Program

Africa Trade Expansion Program is a comprehensive export development program designed to accelerate Africa’s exports into the Americas market. The special intervention program provides integrated Technical Assistance and Market Access to African manufacturers in three (3) key sectorsFood & Beverage, Textile & Fashion, and Arts & Crafts.

Americas Food and Beverage (AFB) Show

Americas Food and Beverage (AFB) Show is a global market access platform which has consistently delivered great results to food and beverage companies seeking to enter or expand their footprints in the Americas market. Exhibit in the Africa Pavilion and boost visibility for your products in the Americas market.

Governance and Economic Development (GED) Program

Governance and Economic Development (GED) Program is a strategic gathering of political leaders, top government officials, key cabinet members, heads of agencies and a few private sector executives across Africa to advance leadership excellence, accelerate economic development and to strengthen bilateral exchange between the U.S. and Africa. Powered by CITD – Miami in partnership with the World Strategic Forum (WSF) and the University of Miami Herbert Business School

Export Enabler Program

Export Enabler Program is a multi-layer capacity building program which involves a combination of activities, strategies, and methodologies to provide guidance to SMEs through each stage of their export evolution. The program is implemented through the following export development activities, in a phased approach: Export Readiness Assessment, Export Competitiveness Audit, Export Training, Export Marketing Plan and Target Country Selection, Export Technical Assistance for Regulatory Compliance and Market Access Strategy Implementation.

2024 INTERNATIONAL TRADE & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT EVENTS

CONMEBOL & CONCACAF

COPA America Soccer Tournament

June 22 – July 14, 2024

Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL

The 10th Annual SelectUSA Investment Summit

June 23 – 26, 2024

Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, National Harbor, Maryland 20745

28th Annual Americas Food & Beverage Show and Conference

September 16 – 18, 2024

Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami, FL., USA. Organized by the World Trade Center Miami, Florida

2nd Annual International Trade & Business EXPO (ITBE)

October 15 & 16, 2024

Miami International Airport Concourse D Auditorium. Organized by Collectif Coopération Export Martinique (CCEM)

2nd World Travel EXPO

October 21 – 23, 2024

Miami Beach Convention Center, Florida

9th Annual Florida International Trade & Cultural EXPO

October 23 - 24, 2024

Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale. Organized by Broward County, Florida

42nd Annual Florida Minority Enterprise Development Conference

October 25 - 26, 2024

Organized by MGill & Associates Inc., Operator of MBDA Miami Export Center, Miami, Florida

Art Basel Miami

December 6 – 8, 2024

Miami Beach, Florida

13th Annual World Strategic Forum of the Americas Miami

December 10 – 11, 2024

Biltmore Hotel, Coral Gables, Florida

3rd Edition of the Governance & Economic Development Program

During the World Strategic Forum’s International Economic Forum of the Americas Miami

December 9 – 12, 2024

Miami, Florida, USA

Your Global Trade and Investment Partner

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