One of the world's fastest-growing economies is rolling out the red carpet for international investors this May. The Sovereign Wealth Fund of Djibouti has just announced the dates of its next Djibouti Forum - Gateway of Opportunities, which will be held from 12 to 14 May at the Djibouti Palace Kempinski.

"This inaugural Forum will showcase the investment potential and opportunities of Djibouti and the African continent. It will bring together CEOs, investors and promoters to foster collaboration among like-minded individuals, catalyze strategic investments for the entire sub-region and facilitate dialogue between the Fund and institutional investors," said the Managing Director of the Sovereign Wealth Fund of Djibouti, Dr. Slim Feriani.

Recent investments in ports and logistics, hospitality and renewable energy are a model for investors. The country's 2035 plan provides a clear roadmap and, under the leadership of H.E. Mr. Ismail Omar Guelleh, President of Djibouti, the country offers many incentives to private sector actors.

The event is overseen by the pan-African media group, IC Publications, publisher of African Business magazine. High-level speakers will provide key insights to decision-makers looking for opportunities, as well as excellent networking opportunities with other institutional and business leaders in strategic sectors in Africa, Europe, the United States, and Asia.

"According to the African Development Bank, Djibouti's economy is expected to grow by 6.5% this year. There is a clear opportunity to gain a leading advantage in this country that is not only strategically located, but has one of the most sophisticated logistics centers on the continent and with its ten submarine cables, is becoming a hub for data centers and other technology-related activities. The country aims to be 100% dependent on clean energy by 2030. The finance sector offers many opportunities to be seized," says Omar Ben Yedder, Managing Director of IC Publications.

"We have a strong, convertible currency, a stable political and economic environment, and a government that supports us. The country attracted more than USD 2.3 billion in FDI between 2000 and 2020, mainly in the area of infrastructure. This is an opportunity for people to see it with their own eyes and to accompany us on this journey," Feriani added.

Highlights of the Djibouti Forum 2024

• The power of ports: Located at the crossroads of major shipping routes, Djibouti's world-class ports are essential links in global trade routes. The Forum provides an opportunity to share ideas on how investments in Djibouti's ports can boost economic growth, improve logistics and facilitate international trade.

• Investing for Tomorrow: The event will delve deeper into Djibouti's key sectors, including logistics, energy, telecommunications, and tourism, as well as the lucrative investment opportunities they present.

• Uniting continents: Djibouti is a gateway to neighbouring countries on the African continent and the Middle East. The Forum will showcase the unique investment opportunities that arise from it, including the potential for cross-border collaborations and investments, and the promotion of economic integration.

• A World of Contacts: The event promises extensive networking opportunities, connecting you with high-level delegates, potential partners, and government officials from around the world.

• Economic growth: The Government of Djibouti is committed to creating an investor-friendly environment. The Forum will highlight progressive policies and initiatives to facilitate foreign investment, ensuring a mutually beneficial relationship between investors and the host nation.

Distributed by African Media Agency. for IC Publications