Annie Chifulemba, the innovative force behind Joan Investments, had always envisioned expanding her business beyond Malawi’s borders.
When the opportunity arose to attend the 17th COMESA Summit in Burundi from October 28th to 31st, 2024, she knew it was a pivotal moment for her entrepreneurial journey.
This golden opportunity, facilitated by the Malawi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI), Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), promised to be a transformative experience.
The summit buzzed with the energy of entrepreneurs, policymakers, and industry experts from across the region, all eager to explore the vast potential of regional integration and economic cooperation.
For Chifulemba, the event was a revelation, offering her a front-row seat to the dynamic discussions and presentations that showcased the immense benefits of cross-border collaboration.
The visit by the President of Burundi, Évariste Ndayishimiye, along with the Ministers of Trade and Industry and Tourism, to the Malawi booth was a highlight of the summit, According to Chifulemba.
“This visit underscored the efforts by Malawi’s Ministry of Trade and Industry to create an enabling environment for private sector growth, promoting exports, and strengthening sector capacities.
“The key takeaways for me was Regional Integration and Cooperation which is essential for economic growth in Africa, investment in Infrastructure which is necessary to facilitate trade and boost economic transformation and Technology which remains a pivotal role in enhancing trade facilitation and competitiveness,” she narrates.
Compared to similar local events, the 17th COMESA Summit stood out for its larger scope and diverse participation.
Chifulemba noted the high-level engagement from both government and private sector leaders, making the event a comprehensive showcase of various industries and innovations.
She also identified several promising business opportunities during the summit including African Leather and Leather Products (ALLP), the Infrastructure Development (Transportation and Logistics) and Technology and Innovation (E-commerce).
“I also explored potential partnerships with companies from Burundi, Rwanda, Ethiopia, and Zambia, notably visiting the African Tannery Company in Burundi. The owner expressed interest in helping Malawi set up a tannery, presenting a promising opportunity for Joan Investments,” she explains.
Chifulemba adds that attending the summit broadened her understanding of global trade complexities and Africa’s position within it.
“I gained insights through several sessions that left a lasting impression such as the Africa’s Economic Integration: Challenges and Opportunities by the African Development Bank, Digital Trade and Innovation by the International Trade Centre and Women in Trade by the COMESA Business Council.
“These sessions provided valuable insights into regional integration, technology’s role in trade, and women’s empowerment in business, she says.
Armed with new knowledge and connections, Chifulemba plans to explore New Markets and Partnerships by leveraging the connections made at the summit, invest in technology to enhance trade facilitation and competitiveness and advocate for policy reforms by supporting regional trade and economic growth.
The summit facilitated connections with business leaders from East and Central Africa, government officials from multiple countries, and representatives from international organizations. These connections have opened up potential business opportunities and collaborations for Joan Investments.
Annie’s journey to the 17th COMESA Summit was more than just an event; it was a turning point in her entrepreneurial journey. She extends her heartfelt appreciation to MCCCI and COMESA for organizing this successful event.
As she reflects on her experience, Annie feels more committed than ever to contributing to Malawi’s economic growth and regional integration.
The 17th COMESA Summit has not only broadened her horizons but also reaffirmed her belief in the power of collaboration and the endless possibilities it brings, thanks to MCCCI.
