The TransPacific Africa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TPACCI) officially launched its East & Central Africa Regional Hub in Nairobi, Kenya, underscoring its commitment to driving regional economic integration and sustainable development across 21 countries.

The event, graced by Chief Guest Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya, Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs, saw leadership figures, including TPACCI’s Global Chairman & Executive President, Hon. James Mureu and Founding President & Chief Executive Officer Catherine Omondi, affirm the transformative power of partnerships for Africa’s prosperity.

Emphasising economic resilience, Omondi declared, “Guided by purpose and fuelled by collective action, we will transform challenges into opportunities.”

The ceremony featured key speakers such as Director for Central Planning and Project Monitoring Department, Mr. Hussein Adan, at the State Department of Investment Promotion at the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, Dr. Franck Attere, Chair of the Africa Continent at TPACCI, who highlighted agriculture’s central role in economic transformation. Other speakers included Hon. Eng. James Rege, TPACCI Patron, and Eng. James Mwangi, KEPSA Board Member, who stressed regional integration’s importance.

The launch signifies a bold new chapter in driving business growth, regional integration, and sustainable economic development across East and Central Africa. The event also marked the signing of strategic MoUs with the Organization of Women in International Trade (OWIT) Kenya, Real Resources Africa (an AfCFTA Trading Company), AMCCO Properties, and the Chamber of Business Sector Kenya, further cementing TPACCI’s influence in fostering regional trade and inclusivity.

The evening culminated in a vibrant cocktail reception, sponsored by East African Breweries Limited (EABL), which was the strategic supporting partner for the networking ceremony. Guests celebrated new partnerships and explored opportunities for Africa’s future economic growth.

The newly established hub will serve as a focal point for regional business operations and collaboration, providing a robust platform for advancing economic integration and partnership development. With a commitment to building stronger ties between

businesses and governments, TPACCI is set to pave the way for increased investment, trade, and innovation.

Notable Quotes from Key Speakers:

• Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya, Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs, underscored the critical role of cooperation and MSME empowerment in driving Africa’s economic growth during the launch of TPACCI’s East & Central Africa Regional Hub. He highlighted MSMEs as the backbone of the economy and praised TPACCI’s mission to connect businesses globally, fostering market access and partnerships. Hon. Oparanya also emphasised inclusivity, calling for greater support for women entrepreneurs, youth-led enterprises, and community cooperatives to ensure equitable and sustainable development.

• Hon. James Mureu, Global Chairman & Executive President of TPACCI: “Today, we are not just launching a regional hub; we are creating a collaborative ecosystem where all African businesses – large and small – can thrive. Through our collective efforts, we will unlock untapped potential across the continent.”

·         Catherine Omondi, Founding President & CEO of TPACCI:

“Empowering women, youth, and entrepreneurs is at the core of TPACCI’s mission. By fostering an inclusive ecosystem, we are creating a fertile ground for Africa’s next generation of business leaders, paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous future.”

·         Hon. Eng. James Rege, CBS, Patron of TPACCI:

“Increased intra-African trade and economic integration will not only raise the continent’s competitiveness but will also lay the foundation for a more resilient, innovative, and inclusive Africa. TPACCI is at the heart of this effort.”

·         Dr. Franck Attere, Chair of the Africa Continent at TPACCI:

“Agriculture remains the lifeblood of Africa’s economies. Our collective vision is to enhance regional value chains and create sustainable growth in agriculture by driving innovation and encouraging business partnerships that will benefit every corner of the continent.”

·         Mr. Hussein Adan, Director of Central Planning & Project Monitoring at the State Department of Investment Promotion, delivered remarks on behalf of the Principal Secretary for Investments, Ministry of Investments, Trade, and Industry

“Investment is the engine driving Africa’s transformation. By fostering a favourable business environment, we are building the foundation for sustainable growth that will benefit all nations within the East and Central African region.”

·         Elikanah Epiche, Advisory Chair & Ag. Vice Chair of TPACCI East & Central Africa Hub:

“This launch is a testament to our shared commitment to the economic future of East and Central Africa. With a focus on collaboration, TPACCI will continue to bridge gaps and bring together businesses, governments, and innovators to drive regional prosperity.”

• Eng. James Mwangi, CEO of Kurrent Technologies & KEPSA Board Member: “Technology and infrastructure are the pillars on which Africa’s future will stand. We need to build smarter cities, more sustainable energy solutions, and reliable infrastructure systems to support the fast-growing business landscape in the region.”

• Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry – Spoke on the importance of partnering with TPACCI on diaspora matters.

Key Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) Signed with Strategic Partners:

At the launch event, TPACCI signed four strategic MoUs with leading organisations and companies to advance key initiatives and foster deeper collaboration across sectors:

• Organisation of Women in International Trade (OWIT) Kenya – Dedicated to promoting women’s participation in international trade and facilitating business opportunities for women entrepreneurs.
• Real Sources Africa (AfCFTA Trading Company) – A leading player in sustainable resource development and investment solutions across key sectors.
• AMCCO Properties – A prominent real estate development company focused on urban development and infrastructure projects across East Africa.
• Chamber of Business Sector of Kenya – A major regional chamber that advocates for the interests of the business sector, aiming to boost trade and investment across the region.

These partnerships are pivotal in reinforcing TPACCI’s regional presence and expanding its network to ensure more inclusive, sustainable, and impactful economic growth.

Notable Attendees Included:

Among the distinguished guests at the event were:

• Amb. Isaiah Kabira, representing the Principal Secretary for the State Department for Diaspora Affairs.

·         The Managing Director of ECOBANK

• The CEO of UBA Bank

·         The Executive Council VP of the Pan African Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PACCI).

• Diplomatic representatives from various embassies, including the Embassy of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Embassy of the Republic of Cameroon, and the Embassy of the Republic of Colombia.
• In addition, members of the County Assembly of Kisii, as well as representatives from KEPROBA, ECOBANK, UBA, Union Capital Partners, MENA Consultancy,

and KCB were present to engage in the discussions and further strengthen the partnership opportunities presented at the event.

Bilateral Meetings

• Mr. Cumaio Bernardo Abilio, Vice Chair for TPACCI’s Southern Regional Hub, highlighted the importance of South-South cooperation and the role of the Southern Hub in fostering regional connections and economic growth.
• Discussions were held with the Pan African Chamber School of Business on advancing business education.
• A bilateral meeting with the Pan African Talent Hub explored opportunities for nurturing talent and innovation across the continent.

Networking: Building Connections for Regional Growth

Following the formal ceremony, guests participated in an engaging networking session during the cocktail reception. This dynamic event provided a unique opportunity for business leaders, government representatives, and key stakeholders to connect, exchange ideas, and explore collaborative opportunities. It served as a platform for developing partnerships that will contribute to sustainable economic growth and regional integration.